Create a unique family treasure and tradition by building a picture of the Nativity scene as you count down the days to Christmas.

On the 1st December the stable is bare - each pocket contains a figure to add to the scene until you place Jesus in the manger on Christmas Day. The pieces simply hook into the background to keep them in place, or you can stand the figures up to make a Nativity scene or even use them as finger puppets. And why not put small treats into the pockets with the figures!

The 19 page illustrated pattern has full instructions and charts for the background, figures and pockets as well as instructions for making up the wall hanging. The finished size is about 105cm (41inches) square.

The figures are all knitted in one piece to keep making up to a minimum and to ensure they will withstand being handled over the years.

The background, figures and pockets are knitted in DK yarn:
2x100g balls navy blue, 1x100g ball light brown and 1x100g medium brown for the background
300g for the pockets
100g white or cream for the angels
an assortment of small balls and oddments for the other figures
about 50m (55 yards) aran weight yarn for the numbers (you can use DK for these as well but the slightly thicker yarn makes them stand out better)

You will also need:
a piece of fabric about 115cm (45.5 inches) long and 110cm (43.5 inches) wide
two 105cm (41.5 inches) lengths of dowelling
110cm narrow ribbon
25 medium hook and eye fasteners (you will only need the hooks)
fabric glue and sewing threads

Needles are 2.75mm and 3mm pairs, a 3mm set of 4 double pointed (for the star)and a 3mm circular needle (the background is knitted flat but is a bit wide for straight needles).