Fast & Easy Nativity Play Costumes

So last year my 2 little girls were in our Church's Nativity Play.  There were about 6 kids; it was adorable.  This year when I was asked to help make costumes I said I'd love to!  (Those of you who have had this experience are now shaking your heads and laughing, I know that now).  I had visions of those 6 little treasures wearing beautifully handcrafted and adorned costumes fitting of a tribute to our Lord.  At the first rehearsal there were about 12 kids, no problems I can do this.  At the 2nd rehearsal there were more than 20 (or was it 100...it sure felt that way!). 

All jokes aside; I am happy to be of service to our Church.  But I am also time poor (work, kids, house... you know...).  So I racked my brain to come up with the easiest possible costumes. 

I consulted Pinterest; saw beautiful costumes and was further wracked with guilt because I didn't have that kind of time! 

Here are my top tips for the time poor Nativity play costumer:

1. Use knit fabric!  It doesn't need hemming as it doesn't fray - massive time saver!  Also, knit robes will fit the more *ahem* rotund children more easily.

2. Make the most of the selvedge edge (the edge that doesn't fray, for those new to this fabric thing) if, like me, you need to use woven fabric.  Use the selvedge as a hem, you don't have to sew it.  Time saver!

3.  Keep it simple.  I'm sure we all start of with grand costuming ideas, but that takes time, time I didn't have.  A simple but effective costume will work every time.  Hey, if a child or pushy stage mother parent wants an elaborate costume they are welcome to make it themselves. 

4.  Get in production line mode by doing all of the cutting first, then all of the sewing.  Take frequent breaks and be thankful you don't work in a sweat shop! 

Head dress - make as long as needed (without tripping child)

A robe, I forgot to show the waist tie, but you know what that looks like!

Good luck! 
No seriously, I mean it... good luck!