When you're starting or expanding a Fontanini Nativity, one of the first questions is: which scale size is right for me? Scale refers to the proportional height of the human figures, and it determines how every piece of your Nativity scene fits together. This guide will help you understand how Fontanini scales work so you can select the perfect size for your home, church, or collection.

In Fontanini figures, scale size is based on the height of an average adult figure, such as Joseph or a shepherd. For example:

5 Inch Scale an adult figure is about 5" tall.

7.5 Inch Scale an adult figure is about 7.5" tall.

12 Inch Scale an adult figure is about 12" tall.

All animals, angels, children, and accessories are crafted in matching proportions. This ensures your Nativity scene looks natural and harmonious.

3.5 Inch Scale
A smaller option designed for those who want a simple Nativity without building a large collection. While these figures feature the same hand-painted detail and durable polymer as larger scales, they do not include the wide variety of villagers or village accessories available in 5 Inch Scale. Ideal for creating a modest yet meaningful display that feels complete on its own.

5 Inch Scale
The classic size, perfect for collectors and families. Offers the widest variety of figures, accessories, and stables. Made from durable, virtually unbreakable polymer for years of enjoyment.

7.5 Inch Scale
A beloved size for collectors who want a little more detail and presence without requiring as much space as the 12 Inch. This scale offers a rich assortment of figures and is also crafted from unbreakable polymer.

12 Inch Scale
A striking size that makes a bold statement for larger spaces. Like the smaller scales, the figures are crafted from unbreakable polymer and finished with hand-painted detail.

20 Inch Scale and Larger
These larger figures are often chosen for churches, schools, and public displays. Unlike the smaller polymer figures, 20 Inch Scale and larger are crafted from a durable marble-based resin that gives them both strength and a more traditional statue-like weight. While not as widely collected for the home, they bring grandeur and reverence to any setting.

Figures from 5" to 12" scales are made from a special polymer blend designed to be virtually unbreakable. This makes them safe for families and ensures they can be handled, rearranged, and passed down through generations without worry. Each piece is then hand-painted by artisans in Bagni di Lucca, Italy, making every figure unique.

In addition to Nativity figures, Fontanini also offers devotional statues such as the Sacred Heart, Madonna and Child, or Saint Joseph. Unlike Nativity pieces, these are not part of a scale system. Instead, they are measured by their actual height:

6.5"H Statues Smaller devotional figures ideal for personal prayer spaces or home altars.

20"H Statues Medium-sized statues that create a strong presence in homes and chapels.

40"H Statues Large, reverent figures designed to be focal points in churches, schools, or outdoor displays.

Like the larger Nativity figures, 20" and 40" religious statues are crafted from marble-based resin, giving them durability and a timeless, substantial feel.

Start Small, Expand Later: Many collectors begin with a 5 Inch Scale Holy Family and grow their set year by year.

Match Your Pieces: Always keep figures, animals, and stables within the same scale so the proportions look natural.

Consider Your Space: A mantel or tabletop works beautifully with 5 or 7.5 Inch Scale, while 12 Inch or larger shines in spacious rooms or parishes. For statues, simply choose the actual height that fits the space where you plan to display it.

Share the beauty of Fontanini with a Nativity set that becomes
part of your family's tradition year after year.