Free Printable Cut Out Nativity Scene Templates – Looking for a meaningful, hands-on way to celebrate the Christmas story? A free printable cut out nativity scene lets families, teachers, and Sunday school groups create their own paper version of the manger scene at home. These printable templates typically include figures of Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus, shepherds, wise men, angels, animals, and a stable backdrop that kids can color, cut, and arrange.
This resource page explains what a cut-out nativity scene is, how to put one together, and points you to trusted free download pages so you can print and craft right away.
Why Choose a Free Printable Cut Out Nativity Scene?
A printable cut out nativity scene turns the Christmas story into an interactive craft. Children practice fine motor skills while learning about the birth of Jesus. Adults appreciate an affordable, screen-free activity that becomes a simple holiday decoration or storytelling tool.
These printables work well for:
- Family Advent activities
- Classroom or homeschool lessons
- Church and Sunday school crafts
- Quiet-time play that reinforces the true meaning of Christmas
Most designs come in both color and black-and-white versions so younger kids can color freely and older ones can assemble stand-up figures.
What Usually Comes in a Free Printable Nativity Set?
Typical free printable cut out nativity scene packs include:
- Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus in the manger
- Shepherds and sheep
- The three wise men (sometimes with camels)
- An angel and the Star of Bethlehem
- Animals such as a donkey, ox, or cow
- A stable or manger backdrop
Some sets feature stand-up tabs so the figures can stand on a table or shelf. Others are flat cut-and-paste designs for a 2D scene or simple pop-up dioramas.
Trusted Places to Download Free Printable Cut Out Nativity Scenes
Here are reliable sources that currently offer free printable cut out nativity scene templates. Always download from the official page and follow each site’s personal-use guidelines.
Superstar Worksheets offers several free nativity templates, including black-and-white and colored cut-out sets that kids can color, cut, fold, and arrange. The page includes pop-up style scenes and simple silhouette versions ideal for classrooms.
Download free nativity cut-out templates from Superstar Worksheets
PaperToys provides a free printable 3D paper model of a nativity scene. Print the PDF, cut, fold, and glue to create a dimensional paper craft that stands on its own.
Get the free 3D nativity scene paper model from PaperToys
Mrs. Merry has a popular free printable set of stand-up nativity paper dolls. It includes Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus, the three wise men, an angel, animals, and a stable backdrop in both color and black-and-white versions.
Download free printable nativity scene cutouts from Mrs. Merry
DLTK’s Holiday Activities features classic free nativity templates designed for felt boards, coloring, or cut-out figures. Color and black-and-white options for Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus, shepherds, wise men, animals, and more are available.
Find free nativity cut-out templates at DLTK
These sites focus on educational or craft content and clearly mark the resources as free for personal or classroom use. Avoid random image search results or sites that require payment after a “free” teaser.
Free Printable Cut Out Nativity Scene Templates
How to Assemble Your Printable Cut Out Nativity Scene?
- Download the PDF from one of the trusted pages above.
- Print on regular paper or cardstock (cardstock holds up better for stand-up figures).
- Color the black-and-white versions if desired.
- Carefully cut along the outlines or dotted lines.
- Fold any tabs or bases so figures stand upright.
- Arrange the pieces on a table, shelf, or against a printed stable backdrop.
Optional tips: Laminate the finished figures for durability, or glue small cardboard stands to the back for extra stability. For younger children, pre-cut the pieces or use safety scissors.
Tips for a Successful Craft Session
- Print a few extra sets so every child has their own figures.
- Pair the activity with reading the nativity story from the Bible (Luke 2).
- Display the finished scene under the Christmas tree or on a mantel as a simple centerpiece.
- Store flat pieces in an envelope for easy reuse next year.
- Check printer settings so the page scales correctly (usually “fit to page” or 100% size).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these truly free?
Yes. The links above lead to pages that provide free printable PDFs or templates for personal and educational use. Some sites may ask for an email to access a library, but the core nativity cut-outs listed do not require payment.
What paper works best?
Cardstock or heavy paper gives the best results for stand-up figures. Regular copy paper is fine for flat cut-and-paste versions.
Can I use these in a classroom or church?
Most of the sources allow personal and classroom or single-classroom use. Always review the copyright note on the specific download page.
Do the printables include a stable?
Many do. Look for sets that list a “stable backdrop” or “manger scene.” If not, children can draw or craft a simple stable from a shoebox.
A free printable cut out nativity scene is one of the easiest and most meaningful Christmas crafts available. Download a set from the trusted sources listed, gather scissors and crayons, and enjoy creating a paper reminder of the first Christmas with your family or group.