Create Your Own Advent Calendar: A Festive DIY Guide

The countdown to Christmas is one of the most magical parts of the holiday season, and an advent calendar adds to the excitement by offering daily surprises in the run-up to the big day. 

While shop-bought versions are convenient, creating your own advent calendar allows you to tailor it to your family’s tastes, style, and traditions. 

Plus, it’s a fun and rewarding project that adds a personal touch to your holiday celebrations. Here’s how you can craft your own unique advent calendar.

Step 1: Decide on the Style

There are countless ways to create an advent calendar. Choose one that suits your space and crafting skills:

Hanging Calendar: Small fabric or paper pouches hung on a string.

Box Calendar: Individual boxes stacked or arranged in a festive shape. (That's what I'm doing this year!)

Wall Display: Envelopes, mini stockings, or felt pockets attached to a board or frame.

DIY Drawers: Upcycle an old drawer set or purchase a wooden advent calendar with compartments to customise.

Step 2: Gather Supplies

Depending on your chosen style, you’ll need different materials. Here are some general supplies:

Paper or fabric for making containers (pouches, envelopes, etc.).

Decorations such as stickers, stamps, ribbon, and festive embellishments.

Numbers (stickers, stamps, or handwritten).

A base structure like string, a board, or a box frame.

Small gifts, treats, or notes to fill each day.

Step 3: Choose the Fillings

The beauty of a DIY advent calendar lies in personalising the surprises. Think about the recipient and pick a mix of fun, thoughtful, and festive items:

For kids: Small toys, chocolate, activity cards, or stickers.

For adults: Mini toiletries, tea bags, candles, or indulgent snacks.

Family fun: Christmas trivia questions, craft supplies, or vouchers for activities like a movie night or baking session.

Step 4: Assemble Your Calendar

Create the containers: Whether you’re folding envelopes, sewing pouches, or decorating small boxes, ensure they’re sturdy enough to hold the surprises.

Number them: Add numbers 1 to 24 (or 25) to each container.

Fill them: Place a surprise in each container, keeping in mind the order if some days have specific themes or activities.

Arrange your calendar: Attach the containers to your base (hang them, stack them, or arrange them however you like).

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Once assembled, take a step back and look for ways to make your advent calendar even more festive. Add fairy lights, greenery, or a dusting of glitter for that Christmas magic.

Tips for Success

Plan ahead: Start early to allow time for sourcing materials and crafting.

Budget wisely: DIY doesn’t have to be expensive; use items you already have or check charity shops for supplies.

Get creative: Think beyond sweets and include meaningful notes or family activities to make each day special.

A homemade advent calendar is more than just a holiday countdown; it’s a reflection of your creativity and a gesture of love that will be remembered for years to come. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your children, or a friend, this project will bring joy to the festive season. Happy crafting!