Stations of the Cross plaques are flat panels that show each station and hang on a wall. They are usually made from laminated MDF, printed with the station image, and sold as a set of 14 or 15 pieces. They are not carved reliefs, and they are not the same as a single wooden wall cross with metal stations.
This guide explains what the plaques are, the sizes available in our collection, the difference between 14 and 15 pieces, and how to choose and mount them for a church, chapel, or home.
What Are Stations of the Cross Plaques?
A plaque is a flat panel, usually rectangular or square, with an image of one station. The set is hung in sequence around a wall or room. The plaques are decorative and devotional: they mark the stations for prayer and help the community follow the order of the devotion.
Our plaques are made from MDF and finished with a laminated surface. The image is printed on the panel, not carved into wood or metal. This keeps the set affordable and consistent, and it makes the panels lighter than solid wood. The trade-off is that they are not suitable for outdoor use and should not be exposed to water.
Sizes in Our Collection
| Set | Panel size | Pieces | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (4006) | 9.5 × 9.5 cm | 15 | $213 |
| Medium (3951) | 14.5 × 14.5 cm | 15 | $326 |
| Large (4129) | 32 × 24.5 cm | 15 | $1,210 |
| XL (3770) | 48 × 34 cm | 15 | $1,855 |
| XL (3662) | 48 × 34 cm | 15 | $2,339 |
The 9.5 cm and 14.5 cm sets are small enough for a home. The 32 × 24.5 cm set is a middle option for a chapel or a large room. The 48 × 34 cm sets are designed for churches and large halls, where the panels need to be seen from a distance.
Materials and Finish
MDF is a wood-fibre board. It is stable, smooth, and less expensive than solid wood. The laminated surface protects the printed image and makes the panel easy to dust. It is not waterproof, and it can swell or delaminate if water gets into an edge.
For that reason, the plaques are for indoor wall display. Keep them away from bathrooms, kitchens, radiators, and damp walls. Clean them with a soft, dry cloth rather than a wet sponge. If you need a material that can handle an outdoor or damp environment, these panels are not the right choice.
14 vs 15 Pieces
Our MDF sets contain 15 pieces: the 14 traditional stations plus a 15th Resurrection panel. The 15th panel is a devotional addition, not one of the traditional stations. You can pray the 14 traditional stations and use the Resurrection panel as a closing meditation.
If you want the strict traditional form, look for a 14-piece set or use only the first 14 panels. If you want the story to end with the Resurrection, the 15-piece set is the better choice. For a full explanation, see our 14 vs 15 guide.
Church, Chapel or Home?
In a church, the plaques need to be visible from the nave and consistent in height. The 48 × 34 cm sets are the most suitable for a large church; the 32 × 24.5 cm set works in a chapel or a smaller church. The panels should be mounted securely and spaced so that the sequence is clear.
In a home, the smaller sets are more practical. The 9.5 cm set fits a narrow wall; the 14.5 cm set is a good middle size for a living room or hallway. A single wooden cross is an alternative when 15 panels would be too much. For a side-by-side comparison, see our wooden Stations guide.
Mounting and Arrangement
Plan the sequence before drilling. Walk from station 1 to station 14 and check that each panel is visible. Keep the centre height consistent, and leave enough space between panels for the eye to move from one to the next. Corners and doorways need extra planning.
Use the hanging method recommended for the panel weight and your wall type. Drywall anchors, screws into studs, and D-rings are common options; adhesive strips are not suitable for heavier panels. Our hanging guide explains the details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are Stations of the Cross plaques made of?
A: Our plaques are made from MDF with a laminated printed surface. They are not carved wood or metal reliefs.
Q: Are the plaques suitable for outdoor use?
A: No. They are for indoor wall display. Moisture and direct weather can damage the MDF and the laminated surface.
Q: What sizes are available?
A: 9.5 × 9.5 cm, 14.5 × 14.5 cm, 32 × 24.5 cm, and 48 × 34 cm. The 48 × 34 cm size is available in two designs.
Q: How many pieces are in a set?
A: Our MDF sets contain 15 pieces: 14 traditional stations plus a Resurrection panel.
Q: Can I use only 14 of the 15 panels?
A: Yes. Pray the 14 traditional stations and use the Resurrection panel as a closing meditation or leave it aside.
Q: Which size is best for a church?
A: The 48 × 34 cm sets are designed for large churches; the 32 × 24.5 cm set works in a chapel or smaller church.
Q: Which size is best for a home?
A: The 9.5 cm and 14.5 cm sets are the most practical for a home. A wooden wall cross is a compact alternative.
Q: How do I hang the plaques?
A: Use a method suitable for the panel weight and your wall: screws into studs, drywall anchors, or D-rings. Avoid adhesive strips for heavy panels.
Q: How do I clean the plaques?
A: Dust with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid water, harsh cleaners, and direct sunlight.
Conclusion
Stations of the Cross plaques are a practical way to put the full sequence on a wall without the cost and weight of carved wood. Choose the size for your space, decide whether you want 14 or 15 pieces, and mount them securely. Browse the Stations of the Cross collection to compare all five MDF sets and the four wooden crosses, or read our complete guide for the history and prayers.
