You know that magical feeling when December rolls around and the world starts twinkling with Christmas lights? I can’t help but get a little giddy thinking about creating my very own Christmas advent calendar this year. Doesn’t it just feel like a warm hug to count down the days with little surprises tucked away? I remember when I was a kid, racing to open those tiny doors, hoping for a chocolate treat or a cute little trinket—who doesn’t love a bit of joy each day leading up to the big day? But really, what should I put in it? Cookies? Notes? Tiny gifts? The possibilities feel endless and oh-so-exciting! As I’m sitting here sipping my cocoa, I can almost hear the laughter and see the smiles it could bring. Isn’t that what the season is really about?
Items You’ll Need
- Advent Calendar Structure
- Small Bags or Boxes
- Decorative Paper
- Markers or Pens
- Stickers
- Scissors
- Glue or Tape
- String or Ribbons
- Small Gifts or Treats
- Christmas Lights (optional)
- Bakers Twine
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather All Materials
I start by collecting all my equipment for the advent calendar: the advent calendar structure, small bags or boxes, decorative paper, markers, stickers, scissors, glue or tape, string or ribbons, small gifts or treats, and also the optional Christmas lights and baker's twine.
Step 2: Prepare the Structure
Next, I set up the advent calendar structure in a prominent spot where everyone can see it. It could be a wooden framework, a large board, or even just a wall space where I can hang everything.
Step 3: Decorate the Bags or Boxes
I take the small bags or boxes and begin decorating them with the decorative paper. I cut pieces of paper to cover the bags and use glue to stick them on, ensuring they look festive and colorful.
Step 4: Number the Bags or Boxes
Using my markers or pens, I write numbers on each bag or box from 1 to 24 (or 25, if I want to include Christmas Day). I can also embellish them with stickers to make them more fun and cheerful.
Step 5: Fill with Treats
Once the bags or boxes are decorated and numbered, I start filling them with small gifts or treats. This could be candies, tiny toys, or handwritten notes with Christmas activities for each day.
Step 6: Attach String or Ribbons
After filling the bags, I use string or ribbons to attach them to the calendar structure. I make sure they are evenly spaced and hang nicely to create an appealing look.
Step 7: Add Christmas Lights (Optional)
I love the festive look of Christmas lights, so if I want, I can wrap them around the advent calendar structure or drape them behind the bags or boxes to add a warm glow.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
As a final touch, I add some baker's twine to create bows on some of the bags or to hang certain items, giving it that handcrafted charm. I make sure everything is securely attached.
Step 9: Set Up for Countdown
Lastly, I ensure that the advent calendar is ready to go for the countdown to Christmas. Every day, I can look forward to opening a bag or box and celebrating the season!