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13 CREATIVE DIY ADVENT CALENDAR IDEAS FOR A FESTIVE COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

For many families, the excitement of opening 24 Advent gifts is one of the highlights of the holiday season. With December 1st just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start gathering gifts to be opened throughout the month.

As the countdown to Christmas begins, you can track the days with a personalized Advent calendar. This tradition dates back to mid-19th century Germany, where families marked the days leading up to Christmas with chalk on their doors or by lighting candles. Today, Advent calendars often feature paper doors that reveal an image, gift, or sweet treat. You can even create a themed calendar, showcasing family photographs, kids’ toys, or special treats for your pets. Like your Christmas gifts, an Advent calendar is another meaningful way to show appreciation for those you love.

Regardless of how you choose to craft your calendar, its purpose is to spread holiday cheer. Let these DIY Advent calendar ideas inspire you to get into the festive spirit this season!

Matchbox Advent Calendar

This charming little chest hides many secrets! Kids can retrieve its treasures—tiny gifts and notes—by opening numbered drawers, one for each day until Christmas. For an added surprise, slide the drawers backward to reveal a painted tree.

To create this Advent calendar, start by removing matches from 24 matchboxes and gluing them together in three stacks of eight. Once the stacks are glued, cut a strip of paper and glue it around the sides of the chest for a polished look. Number the fronts of the drawers with acrylic paint, then tape ribbon tabs to the undersides for easy opening.

After placing the drawers back in the chest, paint a tree or another festive design on the back. Finally, cut a piece of construction paper to use as a backing to keep the drawers securely in place. This delightful chest will make the countdown to Christmas even more exciting!

Shoe-Organizer Advent Calendar

Children can hardly contain their excitement this time of year, but you can channel that energy with a fun-filled Advent calendar! We created one by stenciling numbers onto a 24-pair canvas hanging shoe bag, then filled some compartments with wrapped gifts and others with supplies for holiday fun. For example, the ninth compartment holds kid-sized utensils for an eagerly anticipated cookie-baking spree. You can customize the countdown to fit your family’s celebrations—choose to celebrate all 24 days leading up to Christmas, or trim a few rows to include Hanukkah’s eight nights.

Pegboard Advent Calendar

This delightful Advent calendar is easy to assemble in just a few steps. Start by painting a 2-by-4-foot pegboard slat and let it dry overnight. Then, using stencils, craft paint, and a brush or sponge, add the numbers one through 24 to muslin gift bags, allowing them to dry overnight as well.

The next day, evenly space 24 small wooden pegs on the pegboard. Fill each bag with little toys, candy, and handwritten messages, then hang them in order. Finally, place the calendar on a console table or ledge, leaning it against the wall (or mount it securely if you have small children), and let the excitement of the countdown to Christmas begin!

Photo Chain Advent Calendar

Create a beautiful photo chain Advent calendar for friends and family that also serves as a lovely keepsake. To make this special gift, order doubles of your favorite photos throughout the year, making assembly easier as December approaches.

Slide the pictures into postcard holders, then cover them with numbered cards. Instead of traditional cards, you can use swatches of decorative paper or even festive holiday wrapping paper to add a personal touch. This thoughtful calendar will not only count down the days to Christmas but also celebrate cherished memories with loved ones!

Christmas Tree Advent Calendar

Little ones will love counting down the days to Christmas with this fun Advent calendar, where each day brings a new present! To create this calendar, start by attaching stickers with sequential numbers to each box.

Next, print the holly leaf template and cut out shapes from various colors of cardstock. Use a screw punch to make a small hole at the top of each holly leaf. Then, use gold string to tie the leaves to each box. Arrange the boxes in a tree pattern, as shown in the picture, and mount them to a surface using double-sided tape. This delightful calendar will surely add to the holiday excitement!

Glittered Cones Advent Calendar

Whether you’re celebrating eight nights of Hanukkah or counting down 24 days until Christmas, half the fun of the holidays is the anticipation. Enhance the excitement with a sparkling tree line filled with hidden surprises. We covered paper cones in adhesive and metallic glitter, tucked a treat under each one, and attached a paper tag with a number sticker to create a whimsical, free-form calendar. A tip for the wise: Wrap your miniature gifts to keep them a surprise in case someone sneaks a peek!

Envelope Advent Calendar

Our simplest Advent calendar yet offers a minimalist twist on the holiday tradition. Create the shape of a Christmas tree using envelopes in various sizes, and mark each one with adhesive numbers.

Fill the envelopes with thin, lightweight presents like gift cards and stickers. Finally, use painter’s tape to securely attach the envelopes to the wall. This chic and straightforward calendar allows for a festive countdown to Christmas without the fuss!

Gift Box Advent Calendar

Enhance the joy of Christmas morning by unwrapping a gift every day leading up to December 25. To create a cohesive look, package the gifts in a palette of complementary tones, such as calming blues, terra-cotta pinks, and earthy ochres.

For each gift, wrap the box in decorative paper, tie it with a bow made from dual-sided satin ribbon, and attach a round tag stamped with a gilded number. This beautiful presentation will make the countdown to Christmas even more special!

Advent Gift Bags

Simplify the Advent chain tradition by using red-and-white striped paper bags instead of wrapping each gift. This approach is quicker for you while still being fun for the kids. The striped bags add a festive touch, but solid-color ones work just as well.

Place one gift in each of the 24 paper bags, then stamp or write numbers on stickers and adhere them to the bags. Hang a cord, fold over the tops of the bags, and clip them to the cord in numerical order or a random arrangement. Enjoy the excitement of the countdown to Christmas!

Traditional Advent Chain

Hang this Advent calendar vertically with gift number 24 at the top. Each day, snip one gift from the bottom. Begin by wrapping each gift and tying it with twine, leaving several inches of twine at the top. Use stamps or write the numbers on tags, then attach them to the gifts. Arrange the gifts in order from one to 24.

Next, tie the loose twine from gift number one to the twine on the bottom of gift number two, and continue this process to join all 24 gifts. Finally, hang the entire chain, and enjoy the countdown to Christmas!

Mini Advent Stockings Calendar

These mini stockings are the perfect size to hold a small gift or sweet treat for each of the 24 days of Advent. If your tree is too small to accommodate all 24 stockings, you can hang the remaining ones from a ribbon for a festive display.

To label each stocking, print the numbers using a computer, cut them out, and glue them onto metal-rimmed tags. Alternatively, you can write the numbers by hand for a personal touch. Choose a variety of festive felt and ribbon colors to complement each other, adding a cheerful and vibrant look to your Advent countdown!

Greeting Cards Advent Calendar


Create a charming Advent calendar by opening a numbered window for each day in December leading up to Christmas, and on Christmas Day, open the front door. To make this calendar, enlarge the house template by 200 percent, then trace the outline onto two sheets of heavy cardstock for the front and back “walls.”

Next, mark the positions of the door and window shutters with a pencil and cut slits for the door and shutters, numbering the shutters randomly. Place images from old greeting cards behind each opening and adhere them with a glue stick. Edge the roof, chimney, and foundation with red paper, and add gold trim for a festive touch. Finally, glue a ribbon loop between the boards to create a hanger before sealing the back to the front. Enjoy the countdown to Christmas with this delightful creation!

Acts of Kindness Advent Calendar

This acts of kindness Advent calendar offers a heartfelt twist on the traditional countdown. Instead of small gifts or treats for each day, this calendar features a different act of kindness to complete throughout the Advent season.

To create it, use envelopes marked with adhesive numbers, similar to an envelope Advent calendar. Write out an act of kindness for each day on a card and place the cards inside the corresponding envelopes. Secure the envelopes to the wall with painter’s tape for a lovely display.

For an even more festive touch, consider making this acts of kindness calendar alongside one filled with small toys and treats, spreading the Christmas spirit in two meaningful ways!

conclusion

Creating a unique Advent calendar can be a delightful way to enhance the holiday season, whether you choose to fill it with small gifts, acts of kindness, or cherished memories. From whimsical mini stockings to thoughtful photo chains and heartwarming kindness acts, there are endless possibilities to make the countdown to Christmas special.

These creative ideas not only add excitement and anticipation for each day of December but also provide opportunities for family bonding and community spirit. Whichever design you choose, your Advent calendar will surely become a cherished tradition that brings joy and warmth to your home throughout the festive season. Happy crafting and Merry Christmas!

ADORABLE CHUNKY KNITTED CAT BED: 7-STEP PROJECT

I have a co-worker who is absolutely smitten with her cat. It’s quite something to see someone so devoted to their pet! She talks about him constantly and has an endless collection of his photos on her desk. She even uses a special name just for him when they’re having a chat.

She finds it unbearable to be away from her furry friend for too long. Whenever she goes out, she ensures her cat tags along. Thankfully, our workplace is pet-friendly, so she doesn’t have to leave him at home.

Last month, her cat celebrated his birthday, and I wanted to find the perfect gift for the occasion. After some thought, I came across a DIY knitted cat bed and knew immediately it was the right choice. This bed is not only cozy for cats but also straightforward to create.

Knitting is a timeless craft that people of all ages enjoy. It’s a relaxing and therapeutic hobby that allows for the creation of beautiful and unique items. There are various knitting methods, from traditional hand-knitting to machine knitting, each with its own techniques and styles. Traditional hand-knitting, the most common form, uses two needles. Factors like needle size, yarn type, and stitch patterns influence the final product. In contrast, machine knitting employs a knitting machine to produce intricate patterns and designs that would be challenging to achieve by hand.

For this chunky knitted cat bed, I used a technique called the Ohhio braid. Ohhio Braid is a thick, chunky yarn that’s ideal for various projects. It’s a seamless cotton tube filled like a pillow, making it incredibly comfortable to work with. Whether you’re making a cozy blanket or a standout clothing piece, Ohhio Braid is a fantastic choice.

Not only is this chunky knitted cat bed comfortable for your pet, but it also enhances your home décor. The soft, cozy material is sure to be a favorite for your cat, and it’s easy to clean, too. Your cat will love the extra comfort and security this bed provides.

If you’re searching for a simple, beginner-friendly project that will make delightful gifts for your animal-loving friends and family, this tutorial is just what you need. You’ll find it easy to follow, and the final product is truly charming. Why not give it a try?

Materials

  • Ohhio braid

Tools

  • Scissors

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Preparing the Ohhio Braid
Lay out your Ohhio braid on a flat surface. Decide on the size of the cat bed you want to create. A typical diameter for the base is about 15-20 inches, but feel free to adjust this according to your cat’s size and preferences.

Step 2: Creating the Base
Start by making a slip knot at one end of the Ohhio braid to create your first loop. Ensure this loop is loose enough for your fingers to fit through but tight enough to maintain its shape.

Step 3: Knitting the First Row
Insert your hand through the loop, grab the braid, and pull it through to form a second loop. Repeat this process to knit the first row. The number of loops you create will determine the diameter of your cat bed’s base. A good starting point is around 15 loops for a medium-sized bed.

Step 4: Building the Sides
Once the base is complete, start forming the sides by knitting into the back of each loop from the previous row. This technique will help curve the bed upwards, shaping the sides. Continue adding rows this way until you reach your desired height, typically around 5-7 rows for a cozy sidewall.

Step 5: Closing the Bed
To finish the bed, cut the Ohhio braid, leaving a tail of about two feet. Thread this tail through each loop of the last row, pulling gently to gather them. After all the loops are threaded, pull the tail tight to close the top of the bed, then securely knot it to the base to ensure it stays closed.

Step 6: Finishing Touches
Use the remaining tail of the braid to weave in and out along the bed’s edge, tucking in any loose ends for a tidy finish. You can also adjust the bed’s shape during this step, ensuring it’s perfectly round and snug.

Step 7: Presenting the Bed to Your Cat
Place the completed chunky knitted cat bed in your cat’s favorite spot. For added comfort, you can include a soft blanket or cushion inside, though the Ohhio braid itself is already quite soft and inviting.

GUIDE VIDEO 

BENEFITS OF CRAFTING FOR PET OWNERS

Crafting offers pet owners a wonderful combination of creativity, personal fulfillment, and the joy of providing for their furry companions. Engaging in DIY projects, like making a chunky knitted cat bed, not only results in a tangible product but also brings numerous benefits that enhance the well-being of both the creator and their pet.

Fosters Creativity and Personal Expression

Making a chunky knitted cat bed is a creative journey that allows pet owners to express themselves. Beyond functionality, it’s a chance to make artistic choices that reflect personal taste and the unique personality of their pet. Every decision, from selecting the perfect yarn color to choosing a soft texture, infuses the bed with personal stories and love. The design’s versatility allows for endless customization, whether incorporating special patterns or experimenting with techniques, turning the project into a canvas for self-expression.

Enhances the Bond Between Pet and Owner

Creating something special for a pet, such as a chunky knitted cat bed, deepens the emotional bond between the pet and owner. Pets often recognize the comfort and security of handmade items, fostering trust and affection. This strengthened connection is invaluable, nurturing a deeper relationship.

Offers Therapeutic Benefits

Crafting is known for its therapeutic effects, including stress reduction and anxiety relief. Working on a chunky knitted cat bed can serve as a meditative practice, helping pet owners focus on the rhythmic movements of knitting, promoting relaxation and benefiting overall mental health.

Encourages a Sense of Achievement

Completing a DIY project like a chunky knitted cat bed provides a rewarding sense of accomplishment. Overcoming challenges, learning new skills, and creating a cozy space for a pet boosts self-esteem and confidence, knowing that your effort contributes directly to your pet’s comfort and happiness.

Promotes Eco-Friendly Practices

Crafting a chunky knitted cat bed allows pet owners to make environmentally conscious choices, like using sustainable materials such as eco-friendly yarns. This not only benefits the pet and owner but also contributes to a healthier environment. By creating rather than purchasing, pet owners can reduce their carbon footprint and support a more sustainable lifestyle.

Provides Customizable Pet Care Solutions

A chunky knitted cat bed can be tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of both pet and owner. Whether adjusting the size, shape, or material, DIY projects offer flexibility that store-bought items often lack, ensuring that the pet receives a bed that suits their comfort perfectly.

Looking to create a cozy haven for your feline friend? Why not knit them their very own bed? This chunky knitted cat bed is a heartfelt way to show your pet some love, and it’s easy to make by following this tutorial video.