Nativity 2015: How to dress your angel on a budget

So you've had the letter home from school saying that you need to prepare a costume for your child's nativity play.

The downside is there is only two days to go before the big night.

Children's nativity outfits are selling for almost £200 on ebay as desperate parents struggle to find the best outfits for nursery and school plays.

But if your pockets aren't deep enough for this – and not many people's are – there is still hope, as making a nativity costume is not as daunting as you would think.

The Express & Star will be publishing pictures of school nativities both in the paper and online in the run-up to Christmas too. And the best photo will win £100 – so there is no reason not to get involved.

Editor Keith Harrison explains in a letter to headteachers: "Just log on to expressandstar.com/nativity and follow the simple instructions.

"The best pictures will be published on December 15 and the deadline for entries is December 11.Call 01902 313131."

And as the Express & Star appeals for your best nativity photos, this is the perfect time to get out your scissors and fabric.

Online forums are full of tips, with many parents saying a simple tunic, piece of fabric or even pillowcase for younger tots, can be the start for any nativity costume.

For an angel costume, grab yourself a long rectangle of fabric that can be adapted to be the basis of the outfit. This could be a long white T-shirt or large pillowcase for smaller children.

Cut head and arm slots for children, if using the pillowcase, or slit at both sides to make a tunic. Add tinsel around the waist to be used as a belt, tied in a bow.

Have a clear-out of the toy box to find some fairy wings and a tiara to add a finishing touch. A simple headband can also be adapted to make a halo by attaching some wire curved into a circle (look in the garden shed!) with tinsel wrapped around.

Add white or blue tights and simple sandals to finish off the outfit.

For a shepherd costume, the first place to look may be your child's bedroom, as a simple dressing gown can easily be used – even better if it is plain brown.

The most popular addition is then a striped tea-towel wrapped round the head.

Add a toy sheep and even a large branch from the garden to be used as a walking stick and you're sorted.