Storytelling: Modern Flannelgraph Technique to Bring Bible Stories to Life
- Andrea Anderst
- Dec 4, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 27
Let’s take a trip down memory lane, shall we? Imagine opening an old Sunday School cupboard and catching a whiff of aging paper mixed with felt. You see a stack of massive envelopes, each one bulging with carefully stored flannelgraph pieces: tiny figures of Moses, Jesus, or a sheep (or five). Some pieces are missing, others are fraying at the edges, but they still hold a kind of magic.
Flannelgraph storytelling has been around for a long time! It was pioneered as a teaching tool by Christian missionaries, who used it to make Bible stories come alive for children and adults. Simple felt boards became the canvas, and colourful cut-out characters helped convey stories in a way that was engaging and visual. For decades, it was a staple in Sunday schools across North America.
By the time I was a child, flannelgraph was already falling out of style. Most sets were missing pieces or felt well-loved (read: worn-out). Yet, I still remember stories being told in this way.
Why did kids love it so much? Maybe it was the suspense—waiting to see what character or scene would appear next. Maybe it was the lack of animation or video distractions; our imaginations had to fill in the gaps. Or maybe, just maybe, it was the storyteller. A great teacher could infuse those little felt figures with so much personality, pairing expressive storytelling with simple, relatable visuals. (Gotta love a good Sunday School teacher - wink wink!).
Why Flannelgraph Still Works
While the original technique may feel quaint today (and let’s be honest about its flaws—like overly simplistic teaching notes, questionable theology, and the infamous “white Jesus”), flannelgraph storytelling remains a powerful tool. Its tactile, visual nature draws kids into the story, sparking curiosity and inviting participation. While it shares similarities with my Classic Ways to Tell a Bible Story, I felt the extra step of sourcing and preparing images specific to this method needed a post of its own.
Thankfully, we no longer have to rely on worn-out felt boards or expensive sets. With the internet, we can find and print an endless variety of Bible story images without breaking the bank—or needing a storage room for envelopes of cutouts. Just print and cut when needed!
My Modern Flannelgraph Method
Of course, I’m not reinventing the wheel here. This approach has been adapted and used by countless teachers over the years, each adding their own creative twist. It’s a testament to how timeless and versatile this storytelling method really is. Here’s how I prepare to tell a story using this approach:
Prepare Your Images
I often use silhouettes for teaching in flannelgraph style! Their bold style draws children into the story and I love that children can use their imagination to create the details, facial expressions and skin complexions. (Silhouettes are also versatile and can be used for shadow puppets ~ check out one of my ready-to-go resources above.)
If I'm looking for an actual illustration, I scour the internet for Bible story illustrations (a few links below).
Once I download them, I print them on cardstock and cut them out. (Great television watching activity or pass it off to a volunteer!).
Set the Scene
I use a large whiteboard as my “flannel board.” Magnetic sheets from the dollar store are my secret weapon—just stick a piece on the back of each image, and you’re good to go. For a quicker option, a bit of tape works too.
I sometimes draw simple backgrounds with whiteboard markers, or I invite volunteers to help me set the scene. My limited artistic abilities add some humour to the story.
Practice the Story
I study the story to get familiar with it and then I rehearse the narrative, planning when to add or move pieces around. The movement keeps kids engaged and visually tracks the story’s flow.
Engage and Interact
As I tell the story, I ask the kids wondering questions: What do you think happens next? Why do you think this person made that choice?
The images act as a springboard for deeper conversations and connections.
Why I Love This Technique
This modern twist on flannelgraph works especially well when transitioning into our Bible Storybook project. The visuals inspire kids to imagine how they might draw the story in their own unique style. Whether they replicate the images or reinterpret them, the process is creative and personal.
Ready to Try?
Here are a few free or affordable resources to help you get started:
We Who Thirst - this is the best of the bunch - historically accurate paper dolls with a beautiful collection. If you aren’t familiar with these - make sure to take a peek. (And check out her whole site and podcast for great teaching too)
A Sketch of Faith - Great illustrations and some fun paper crafts too (note that skin tones for Jesus are often lighter but overall the illustrator represents a variety of skin colours)
The Activity Mom’s Printable Bible People A simple set of characters for general Bible stories.
What about you? Have you ever tried flannelgraph or created your own modern spin on it? I’d love to hear about your experiences! Whether you’ve got a clever trick, a funny story, or a fresh idea, feel free to send me a message. Let’s keep inspiring each other to make storytelling unforgettable!
(And if you are looking for more storytelling methods, don't miss the post about Creating Bible Storybooks Illustrated by Kids - this is my absolute favourite storytelling and teaching technique.)