Glowing Nativity

Tiffany Marshall from Gateway Community Church in Webster, TX brings us this fun Christmas set.

From Tiffany: We decided to focus on the Nativity Scene in 2017. Our pastor broke each piece down and wrapped the message around what it meant and its origination. We projected the nativity images onto Foam-core. (We previously painted the foam-core with 2 coats of white Kilz and cut them out in large different Christmas ornament shapes). We took Metalic Gold spray paint and filled in all the shapes.

Once the shapes were done, we took flat black paint and filled in around the image so the gold would pop. Where the outer white meets the black, we punched holes with a pencil all the way around and inserted regular Christmas lights in each. The large center piece was made with 3 – 4×8 sheets of foam core taped together on the back with Gorilla Tape. That stuff is very strong. Stronger than regular duct tape. We finished that one the same as we did above. We had some of our carpenters make very simple frames to each one and simply taped them to the frame from the back (again, with Gorilla Tape).

Our lighting crew was able to hang a few from the rafters and aim lighting on them. This caused the Metallic Gold paint to really pop/glow from the distance. The Christmas lights added to that effect as well. Our lighting guys were able to put the lights on a dimmer, so when planned, we made the Star of Bethlehem shine brighter (The star was on a strand by itself).

Our stage is about 60 ft across so the sizes of each ornament can vary according to the stage size. Total, the set cost us about $500.00. (Thats only if you had to purchase the Christmas lights. We had all ours donated by members of the congregation).

The foam-core construction technique offers a lightweight yet rigid solution for creating large scenic elements. By using Kilz primer as a base coat, the foam becomes less porous and accepts spray paint more evenly. The metallic gold spray paint creates a reflective surface that catches stage lighting beautifully, while the flat black background provides dramatic contrast that makes the nativity figures stand out.

The Christmas light border technique is both decorative and functional. By punching holes with a pencil and inserting bulbs, Tiffany created a framed effect that draws the eye to each nativity element. Using a separate circuit for the Star of Bethlehem allowed for special emphasis during key moments in the service. This approach of creating individual dimmer channels for different elements gives lighting designers flexibility to support the worship narrative.

Related Nativity Designs

• On Stage Nativity – Peaceful Christmas Eve design with foam silhouette manger scene and live trees
• Staged Stable – Simple manger set built with recycled lumber and pallets attached to drum cage
• Nativity Silhouette – Large layered silhouette with Bethlehem skyline and black nativity figures on steel cages
• Christmas in the City – Buckhead Church’s foam-core city skyline with over 12,000 CNC-cut windows
• Christmas Home – Cozy living room Christmas setup with cardboard fireplace and bookshelves

Pro Tips for Glowing Nativity Stage Design

Foam-Core Preparation: Always prime foam-core with Kilz or similar primer before painting. Raw foam absorbs paint unevenly and can warp. Apply two thin coats rather than one thick coat to prevent the foam from buckling. Allow 24 hours drying time between coats for best results.

Metallic Paint Application: For the brightest metallic finish, apply multiple light coats of spray paint rather than one heavy coat. Heavy applications can cause drips and actually dull the metallic effect. Hold the can 10-12 inches from the surface and use steady, sweeping motions.

Christmas Light Installation: When punching holes for Christmas lights, use a pencil that’s slightly smaller than the bulb diameter for a snug fit. Test each bulb before installation—it’s much easier to replace bulbs before they’re in the foam. Consider using LED bulbs for cooler operation and energy savings.

Structural Support: Large foam-core pieces need adequate backing to prevent bowing. Simple 1×2 frames provide enough support without adding significant weight. Gorilla Tape is excellent for this application, but apply it at room temperature for best adhesion. Cold tape won’t stick as well to foam surfaces.