$10 Christmas Manger

It was between Elf on the Shelf and The Giving Manger.  I decided I liked the idea behind the Giving Manger better, more service and Christ centered.

I liked how The Giving Manger had the cute book and it came with everything, but I couldn't justify spending $40 on that small of a manger.  I wanted it to be a focal point in my home, almost a centerpiece, since really, that is what Christmas really is about...Christ.

So , I thought about how I could ... make my own ... for cheaper.  I have a ton of those crates and thought I could make one out of those...Walmart didn't have any so I headed over to Michael's and used a coupon.  I got the crate for $8 something.

I was ready to get started:

Step 1-remove slats from sides and bottom

Step 2-remove nails

Step 3-pound in excess nails

Step 4-sand, measure

Step 5-nail together

I used these small nails I had on hand

I left one slat width at the top (about 2"), then started nailing together one side, then the next

One side I put the vertical slates on the edges, the other side I placed them on the inside (so if folded, they would fold together) 

This is of both sides, with the extra space at the top.  The top side has the vertical boards on the edge, while the bottom side has the vertical boards on the inside...kinda hard to see, but hopefully that makes sense)

Step 6-trace sides & cut (using a midor saw)

I looked at who wide I wanted my opening and traced on the end/side board  

Using a midor saw, cut along the lines 

Use wood glue to attach the ends to the sides

Let it dry...

Now I had to figure out what to use for "hay" and since I have a three-year-old boy, I didn't want to use actual hay.  I decided raffia was a good alternative.  Once again, I headed to Michael's and bought a bag of raffia with another coupon, $2.50.  I pulled it all out and cut it into about 2 foot pieces.

Now it's in a bag and every time my son does a good deed for someone else (or makes his bed, or puts away his toys or does something helpful), I let him put a piece of "straw" (aka hay) in the manger.

I know it's not perfect, but I like the rustic feel to it and it's the perfect size for my living room table.  I really like how it turned out, and it helps my family remember Christmas is about giving and not getting.

Merry Christmas!