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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!

12 SIMPLE FALL PLANTER IDEAS TO ELEVATE YOUR SEASONAL DECOR

Fall isn’t just about pumpkin carving and warm apple pie; it’s also the perfect time to refresh your seasonal decor as the major holidays approach. For many, creating a stunning fall container display filled with vibrant plants and planters can feel overwhelming. With the rich textures, colorful contrasts, and cozy hues of green, purple, blue, red, and brown that define autumn, it’s easy to feel daunted!

To help you avoid endless scrolling on Pinterest and the stress of where to begin, we’ve curated 12 fall container garden ideas that will elevate the front of your home and leave your neighbors in awe!

Herb Gardening During Fall

This rustic hanging arrangement can also serve as a mini herb garden. Instead of opting for typical green foliage, consider using herbs to add edible elements to your container garden. Imagine the delightful aroma of fresh cilantro, golden lemon thyme, and Italian oregano flourishing in your hanging planters.

Most of these herb plants grow tall in the fall and will die back during winter, so be sure to harvest them before the cold truly sets in.

One Drop of Pumpkin Spice

Nothing enhances a front porch in the fall quite like golden pumpkins. Whether they’re short and bumpy or smooth and tall, we love arranging pumpkins of all colors and shapes to bring a touch of excitement to the annual pumpkin patch right at your front steps.

FAUX PUMPKINS

A budget-friendly design trick for your fall container garden is to incorporate older or even broken faux pumpkins. These can be nestled among your foliage for added charm. To create a fuller and more vibrant display, consider spraying them with colorful acrylic paint. This will not only enhance their appearance but also ensure they last throughout the season and even into winter, providing festive decor for years to come.

Hanging Container Gardens

Blooming with vibrant annual flowers, perennials, or lush succulents, hanging baskets provide the perfect finishing touch to your home’s exterior. You can also enjoy your fall container baskets from inside, as the stunning tops of flowers and plants peek just below the window frame.

Add cheerful yellow garden pansies and radiant marigolds for a vibrant burst of color in your planter, along with baby kale to introduce a touch of purple.

The key to achieving a rustic aesthetic is to avoid overplanting the basket. Giving your flowers space to breathe will enhance the overall look of the arrangement. Since hanging baskets can become quite heavy, consider filling the bottom with empty plastic bottles before topping them off with potting soil. This will help keep the basket light and manageable.

Container Garden with Spotlight Purple

Bring the glorious colors of fall right to your door by combining vibrant tones of orange and yellow with cool shades of purple and blue in a single pot.

This ceramic pot, featuring a subtle shade of turquoise, showcases a variety of beautiful plants that create a stunning seasonal display.

A CHARMING SECRET GARDEN

When container gardening, it’s always best to work from back to front. Start by adding tall plants at the rear, such as purple ruby grass and Hameln fountain grass, to create texture. In the front, place chrysanthemums and marigolds to trail gracefully over the edge. For a striking touch, include a bold, single-note purple kale—one of our favorite vegetables—at the bottom. Finally, tuck in some greens to fill in any gaps, achieving a balanced look for this contrasting color palette.

A Fall Planter with a Blaze of Orange

A fantastic tip for fall planters is to leverage the height of ornamental grasses to create balance in a large planter box.

Start by filling your planter with tall, dramatic grasses such as fountain grass, ruby grass, maiden grass, or Indian grass. For an extra pop of color at the bottom, add flowering kale or cabbage. The rich gold, orange, and purple hues will beautifully complement a farmhouse-style planter, brightening up your shaded front porch. This stunning fall display will last until your first frost.

Ornamental kale and its cousin, ornamental cabbage, are the stars of the season. Requiring minimal maintenance while delivering a striking visual impact, this vibrant combination features fall favorites and a blaze of orange that’s sure to turn heads.

A Dose of Green

Looking to enhance the beauty and interest of your home’s exterior while boosting your curb appeal? Window boxes are the perfect landscaping solution to showcase your style.

This stunning fall container features a harmonious palette of greens and whites. At the center, white caladium plants create a focal point, with greens evenly spaced around them. Fill any empty spaces with white violas nestled between the grey-leafed Lamium and variegated English ivy, finishing the box with a ring of white sweet alyssum. The graceful Creeping Jenny spilling over the sides adds the final touch of elegance.

What’s truly unexpected is how effortlessly this window box maintains a palette of greens, relying on tone and variation to create a harmonious blend of color and shape. While it may be a window box, it’s anything but confined. With regular watering, these plants will thrive in a partially shady spot throughout the season and into winter.

Perennials Make Good Fall Plant Partners

Evergreen perennial plants are an excellent addition to your fall containers, as they can withstand light frost and help protect other plants from freezing temperatures.

Creeping Jenny, a trailing evergreen perennial with small, waxy round leaves on slender stems, is particularly effective for container gardening alongside more delicate plants and flowers. When frost threatens, simply use the trailing leaves to cover the soil around the vulnerable plants. This will act as a natural mulch, helping to keep them warm and insulated.

Additionally, perennials add a stunning touch to your front porch, with plants like Bloody Geraniums transforming into vibrant shades of red and brown in the fall.

Dress Up Your Front Porch Fall Container Garden

Layer your entrance or walkway with a cascading arrangement of the season’s most popular gourds, flowers, and fall-themed plants. This beautiful display will greet you warmly every day as you come home.

CREATE A CONTRAST OF FALL COLORS

Incorporate a handful of fall hues—yellow, orange, and red—to create that iconic seasonal display. Fill your front porch with an assortment of faux pumpkins, straw bales, and dried fall foliage at the base for a look that remains beautiful all season long. This combination results in a cozy porch that beckons you to sit and enjoy a sunset with a warm mug of apple cider!

Cheeky Hideaway

Picture this stunning paper flower gracing a dreamy garden or a light-filled screened porch. The lanterns are adorned with classic patterns and faux-flame candles, adding a romantic touch, but it’s the overall arrangement that truly evokes a sense of magic.

The secret to achieving this dreamy look lies in incorporating signature decor items. Beautiful lanterns, candles, and vibrant spires of both white and pink Bougainvillea glabra come together in a cascade of bright colors, creating a festive atmosphere. Set in an ornamental shape, the simple monochrome tone of the lantern invites you to imagine stepping into a wonderland.

Fall Favorites

Infuse your front porch with a touch of farmhouse style by filling oversized, rustic wicker containers with delightful fall blooms. If you find a single pot a bit dull, we recommend using two fall planters to showcase the fresh bounty of autumn.

Select containers that resonate with you; metal laundry pots are especially durable and can withstand strong winds. The left fall container garden features Helichrysum Icicles at the back, accompanied by Creeping Jenny, pansies, flowering kale, black-eyed Susans, and Sedum Autumn Joy. While yellow pansies and kale are excellent choices for a vibrant fall display, the silvery foliage of the Icicles licorice plant adds a perfect accent to round out the season.

The wire basket on the right showcases Swiss chard, ornamental peppers, pansies, black-eyed Susans, and golden sage. The annual pansies provide vibrant late-season color, while the peppers add a touch of summer red, creating a striking contrast. This fragrant combination of purple and red continues to thrive through winter, ensuring a blooming display all season long.

Polish Off Fall Planters with Succulent Glory

You won’t find any plants better suited for growing in pots than succulents. Native primarily to arid regions, these resilient plants store water in their fleshy leaves, stems, and roots, allowing them to withstand drought conditions. With a wide variety of colors, shapes, and patterns, succulents offer endless possibilities for creating beautiful combinations.

It’s ideal to use a wide, extra-large planter to accommodate the spreading nature of each succulent. Modernize your fall accents with a playful mix of these plants, allowing their dense foliage to cover the entire surface of the soil. With their incredible variety and elegant architectural forms, succulents are irresistibly drawing us to the “green” side.

Cottage Charmer

Who needs fall flowers when you can turn to colorful foliage and leafy perennials to create a fall-worthy symphony? Add pops of purple, mini pumpkins, and hearty cabbage and purple kale to an old wooden dough bowl for a stunning display. Sugar Plum Heuchera, Red Giant mustard, and ornamental kale and cabbage are arranged directly in the bowl, forming a cool purple foundation that enhances the seasonal aesthetic.

Next, add various greens like Creeping Jenny, Lemon Ball sedum, and Ogon sedum (keeping them in their containers) to brighten the deep purple color palette. Fill in any empty areas with moss to conceal the containers, and tuck in some white mini pumpkins for a delightful seasonal touch.

conclusion

Incorporating these elements into your seasonal decor not only enhances the beauty of your space but also invites a sense of warmth and wonder. By thoughtfully selecting plants, lanterns, and signature decor items, you can create a stunning display that reflects the vibrant spirit of fall. Whether you’re setting the scene for a cozy evening at home or preparing for festive gatherings, these design ideas will help you cultivate an inviting atmosphere that captures the essence of the season.