You know that feeling when December rolls around and the air gets crisp, and suddenly, the holiday spirit just sweeps you off your feet? Well, I've been dreaming about making my own DIY advent calendar this year. I want something that truly captures the joy of counting down the days—like, how magical would it be to open a little surprise each morning? I remember last year, I felt so disconnected from the festivities, just watching time slip by. So, why not craft something special? Have you ever thought about all the little treasures you could tuck in—maybe a tiny gift, a sweet note, or even a fun challenge for the day? It feels like it could transform each morning into a mini celebration. I can almost hear the excitement in my heart just thinking about it!
Items You’ll Need
- Cardstock or Thick Paper
- Scissors
- Glue or Glue Stick
- Markers or Colored Pens
- Ruler
- String or Ribbon
- Small Treats or Surprises
- Stickers
- Hole Puncher
- Craft Knife or Exacto Knife
- Baking Sheets or Small Boxes for treats
- Adhesive Tape (washi tape optional)
- Calendar template or print-out
- Embellishments (e.g., glitter, buttons)
- Paper Clips or Clothespins
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather All My Supplies
I start by gathering all of my equipment on my workspace: cardstock, scissors, glue, markers, and treats. This way, I have everything I need right at hand.
Step 2: Create Boxes for Treats
Using my ruler and craft knife, I cut the cardstock into squares to make little boxes for the treats. I carefully fold and glue the edges to create small containers that will hold my surprises.
Step 3: Decorate the Boxes
With my markers and stickers, I let my creativity flow! I color the boxes and stick cute stickers on them. Each box is going to have its own personality!
Step 4: Add Numbers
Now, I take a marker and write numbers from 1 to 24 on the boxes. This is going to count down to Christmas, so I make sure the numbers are clear and fun!
Step 5: Fill the Boxes
I pick out small treats or surprises — candies, small toys, whatever I can find. I place one surprise in each box, making sure each one is exciting for each day of December.
Step 6: Prepare the Advent Calendar Template
I take a baking sheet or a larger piece of cardstock and layout my boxes in a way that looks appealing. I sketch a rough outline of where each box will go on my template.
Step 7: Secure the Boxes
Using adhesive tape, I start sticking the boxes onto the baking sheet according to my planned layout. I make sure they are secure but also positioned attractively.
Step 8: Add Embellishments
I sprinkle some glitter and attach buttons here and there to make my advent calendar sparkle and shine. I really want it to be festive!
Step 9: Create the Hanging Mechanism
I punch holes in the top corners of the baking sheet and cut some string or ribbon. Then, I thread the string through the holes so I can hang my advent calendar.
Step 10: Final Touches
As a final touch, I add some paper clips or clothespins on the side to hold small notes or holiday wishes that I might want to add later.
Step 11: Hang It Up
Finally, I find a perfect spot on the wall and hang my DIY advent calendar. I can’t wait to start opening the boxes each day and enjoy the surprises!