How to Make Your Own Advent Calendar: Creative DIY Ideas

Creating your own Advent calendar is a wonderful way to build excitement and anticipation in the lead-up to Christmas. A DIY Advent calendar not only allows for personal touches but also offers endless possibilities for creativity, making it a special addition to your holiday decor. Whether you want something simple or elaborate, here are some inspiring ideas to get started.

Why Advent Calendar

The Advent calendar is a cherished holiday tradition that brings joy and anticipation to the Christmas season. Originating in 19th-century Germany as a way to mark the days leading up to Christmas, Advent calendars have become a fun, meaningful way to count down to December 25th.

Traditionally, each day reveals a small surprise, from tiny chocolates to thoughtful messages, adding a sense of excitement and wonder to each new morning. Whether it’s enjoyed by children or adults, an Advent calendar turns the wait for Christmas into a series of delightful moments that everyone can look forward to.

Why Create Your Own Advent Calendar

Creating your own Advent calendar allows you to add a personal touch and celebrate the holiday season in a way that feels uniquely yours. DIY Advent calendars can be crafted to fit any style or theme, whether you’re going for a rustic, eco-friendly approach or a colourful, family-focused design.

With a little creativity, you can transform everyday materials into a beautiful countdown, making each day’s reveal even more special. From handmade envelopes and miniature stockings to tiny jars and wrapped surprises, the possibilities are endless for crafting a calendar that brings warmth, joy, and festive cheer to your holiday season.

18 Amazing DIY Advent Calendar Ideas for This Christmas

1. Envelope Calendar with Daily Messages

For a simple yet meaningful calendar, create a series of small envelopes filled with daily notes or messages. You can write festive quotes, holiday activities, or little acts of kindness for each day. Arrange the envelopes on a wall or bulletin board, using string or ribbon to secure them. Decorate each envelope with stickers, holiday stamps, or a bit of greenery to add a personal touch.

Materials Needed:

• 24 small envelopes
• Twine or ribbon
• Small clothespins or tape
• Markers or holiday stickers

2. Mini Gift Boxes on a Wooden Tree

For a three-dimensional option, use small, decorated gift boxes and stack them on a wooden board or tree shape. Each box can contain a small treat, a holiday trinket, or a handwritten note. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make the wooden structure yourself, or find a ready-made one to decorate. This option doubles as a decorative display that will stand out in any room.

Materials Needed:

• 24 small gift boxes
• Wooden board or tree-shaped structure
• Paint, markers, or wrapping paper for decoration

3. Hanging Paper Bag Advent Calendar

Craft a hanging Advent calendar with small cloth or paper bags filled with daily surprises. Hang the bags from a garland or ribbon stretched across a wall, mantel, or staircase railing. You can also use cloth pegs tacked to the wall to hold the paper bags and go one step further by arranging it in a shape of a Christmas tree and light it up with LED wire fairy lights. Each bag can contain small items like chocolates, ornaments, or notes, and you can number them for each day leading up to Christmas. This style is easy to customize with different colors and embellishments to match your holiday decor.

Materials Needed:

• 24 small cloth or paper bags
• Garland, string, or ribbon
• Clothespins or hooks for hanging
• Decorative markers and holiday embellishments

4. Hanging Cloth Bag Advent Calendar

An alternative to the above, instead of using paper bags use cloth bags. The hanging cloth bag Advent calendar is a versatile, reusable option that brings a cozy, rustic charm to your holiday decor. Start by gathering 24 small cloth bags, which can be plain muslin, linen, or patterned fabric to match your seasonal theme.

Number each bag from 1 to 24 using fabric markers, iron-on numbers, or small tags tied to the bag strings. These bags can be filled with a variety of surprises, like chocolates, small toys, festive quotes, or activity ideas for each day leading up to Christmas.

To display the bags, hang them along a sturdy piece of twine or ribbon stretched across a mantel, staircase, or blank wall. You can secure the bags with small clothespins or simply loop the strings of each bag around the ribbon. This calendar style is highly customisable and can be hung as a decorative sculpture on the wall as in the second image below and colour co-ordinated to match the interior.

5. Matchbox Drawers Advent Calendar

Repurpose small matchboxes to create a “drawer-style” Advent calendar. Arrange the matchboxes in a grid, stacking them to form a box or tree shape. You can decorate the outside of each box with wrapping paper or paint, and fill the interiors with small treats or notes. This compact design is perfect for small spaces and can be reused year after year.

Materials Needed:

• 24 small matchboxes or table top chest of drawers
• Wrapping paper, paint, or fabric for decoration
• Glue for assembly
• Mini treats or notes for each drawer

6. Repurposed Chest of Drawers

Alternative to Matchboxes above are repurposed table top wooden drawer chest. You may already have this in your workshop or craft table. Wooden table top drawer chest can be wrapped, painted and decorated easily and include personalised style, colours and messages. Ideally with 24 drawers, or purchase a set specifically for Advent. Each drawer can be filled with small gifts, treats, holiday quotes, or daily activities to keep the countdown to Christmas exciting and engaging.

To give the chest a festive look, decorate the exterior with paint, wood stain, or holiday-themed stickers. Number each drawer from 1 to 24 using stencils, adhesive numbers, or small tags for an added touch. This design not only keeps the holiday surprises neatly contained but also becomes a charming decor piece that can be used year after year as part of your seasonal setup.

Materials Needed:

• Small wooden drawer chest with 24 drawers
• Paint, wood stain, or holiday stickers for decoration
• Number stencils, adhesive numbers, or tags for numbering each drawer
• Small treats, gifts, or notes to fill each drawer
• Optional: decorative elements like mini wreaths, pinecones, or ribbon to place around the chest

7. Chalkboard Countdown Calendar

For a minimalist approach, create a countdown calendar on a chalkboard or small whiteboard. Draw numbers from 1 to 24 and write out daily activities, challenges, or holiday trivia on the reverse side of sticky notes and stick it over the number. This is a flexible option that allows you to read different messages each day, making it ideal for a quick and interactive Advent calendar.

Materials Needed:

• Chalkboard or whiteboard
• Chalk or dry-erase markers, sticky notes
• Optional: small magnets or clips for holding additional decorations

8. Jar of Surprises Advent Calendar

Gather 24 small jars, each containing a surprise for each day. These jars could include chocolates, mini ornaments, festive quotes, or handmade coupons for family activities. Arrange the jars on a shelf, windowsill, or tabletop. This version is both decorative and functional, and you can personalize each jar with decorative tags or labels for a cozy, rustic look.

Materials Needed:

• 24 small jars with lids
• Tags or labels
• Twine for decoration
• Mini treats or holiday notes

Web Resources: Mason Jar Advent Calendar by Family Around the Table & Mini Jar Advent Calendar by Duni’s Studio

9. Fabric Pocket Advent Calendar

For a calendar you can reuse year after year, sew a fabric Advent calendar with numbered pockets. Use holiday-themed fabric or felt to create 24 pockets on a piece of backing fabric. Alternatively, get a shoe organiser that you can hang and decorate this instead. Each pocket can hold a small treat or a note, making this a charming and durable option for families. Hang it on the wall or display it as part of your festive decor.

Materials Needed:

• Fabric or felt in holiday colors
• Sewing machine or fabric glue
• Decorative numbers or embroidery thread

10. Christmas Ornament Advent Calendar

If you’d like to incorporate daily decorating into your Advent tradition, try an ornament Advent calendar. Hang 24 ornaments from a garland, branch, or dedicated space, adding one ornament each day. This can be a fun way to gradually decorate your home, and by Christmas, you’ll have a fully adorned display.

Materials Needed:

• 24 small ornaments
• Garland, branch, or string
• Optional: hooks or clothespins for hanging

11. Mini Stocking Advent Garland

Create a festive garland of mini stockings, each representing a day in December leading up to Christmas. Hang 24 mini stockings on a piece of ribbon or twine across a mantel, along a staircase, or on a blank wall. Each stocking can hold a small treat, message, or tiny gift. This style is perfect for a cozy, traditional look and adds a touch of warmth to your decor.

Materials Needed:

• 24 mini stockings (you can buy them or sew your own)
• Ribbon or twine for hanging
• Clothespins or hooks
• Mini gifts, candies, or notes for each stocking

12. Paper Cone Forest Advent Calendar

For a whimsical touch, create a “forest” of numbered paper cones, each hiding a surprise for each day. Cut out triangles from colored paper or cardstock, roll them into cones, and secure them with tape or glue. Place the cones on a flat surface, arranging them in a forest-like cluster, or line them up in rows. Inside each cone, place small treats or messages to be opened daily.

Materials Needed:

• Colored paper, wrapping paper or cardstock
• Scissors, tape, or glue
• Number stickers or markers
• Mini surprises or notes for each cone

Web Resource: Christmas Tree Advent Calendar

13. Bird House Advent Calendar

Create a whimsical outdoor-inspired Advent calendar by using 24 miniature birdhouses, each representing a day in December. This charming calendar brings the natural beauty of the outdoors into your holiday decor. Arrange the birdhouses on a shelf, hang them on a wall, or even display them on a small tree.

Paint or decorate each birdhouse to give it a festive look, and number them from 1 to 24 with paint, stickers, or small tags. Inside each birdhouse, tuck a small treat, festive note, or tiny toy to add a surprise element to the daily countdown.

For a cohesive display, choose a color scheme like classic red and green, rustic white, or even pastel tones to match your decor. This Advent calendar is highly customizable, allowing you to create a one-of-a-kind centerpiece that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.

Materials Needed:

• 24 miniature birdhouses
• Paint, holiday stickers, or small decorative elements (e.g., small wreaths or bows)
• Number stickers, paint, or tags for numbering each birdhouse
• Small treats, notes, or surprises for each day
• Optional: shelf, wall space, or small decorative tree for displaying the birdhouses

14. Color-Coordinated Gift Box Advent Calendar

This color-coordinated gift box Advent calendar brings a touch of elegance and harmony to your holiday decor. Each gift is wrapped in matching shades of pink and white wrapping paper, creating a unified, stylish look that feels both festive and sophisticated. The numbers for each day are cut out or printed on each box in bold, modern fonts, adding a visually appealing touch that’s easy to read. These gifts can be displayed on a table, shelf, or even mounted on a wall, transforming your Advent calendar into a beautiful holiday centerpiece.

For added charm, decorate some boxes with natural elements like sprigs of greenery, dried orange slices, or clusters of red berries. This design is perfect for those who love a minimalistic yet thoughtful approach to holiday decor, allowing you to count down to Christmas in style while adding warmth and personality to your space.

Materials Needed:

• 24 small gift boxes
• Coordinated wrapping paper in a chosen color scheme (e.g., pink and white)
• Number stencils, adhesive numbers, or printed labels
• Small gifts, treats, or notes for each day
• Optional: natural elements like dried orange slices, greenery, or berries for decoration

15. Pringle Tubes Advent Calendar

Transform empty Pringle tubes into a unique and reusable Advent calendar. Cover each tube in festive wrapping paper, fabric, or paint, then number them from 1 to 24. Each tube can hold small gifts, treats, or holiday messages, and you can arrange them in various creative ways. Stack them in a pyramid shape, line them up on a shelf, or place them in a basket for a fun, colourful display. This idea is perfect for upcycling materials you might already have at home, making it both eco-friendly and budget-friendly.

Materials Needed:

• 24 Small Pringle tubes or similar-sized containers
• Wrapping paper, fabric, or paint
• Number stickers or markers
• Small gifts, candies, or notes for each tube

This Pringle tube Advent calendar is a fantastic way to reuse materials while adding a playful, DIY touch to your holiday decor. Plus, it’s easy to customise with colours and patterns to match your home’s Christmas theme. For a more earthy feel, try building a house with card board roof, chimney tubes and crumbled paper for smoke.

16. Hanging Brown Paper Bag Advent Calendar

The hanging brown paper bag Advent calendar is a simple, rustic, and eco-friendly way to count down to Christmas. Number 24 small brown paper bags, fill them with treats or notes, and hang them on a piece of twine or ribbon with clothespins. Add holiday charm by decorating with natural elements like pine sprigs or cinnamon sticks. This customizable, affordable calendar brings a cozy, handmade feel to your decor.

Materials Needed:

• 24 small brown paper bags
• Twine or ribbon for hanging
• Clothespins or hooks to attach bags to the twine
• Number stickers, stamps, or markers for numbering each bag
• Small surprises, treats, or notes for each day
• Optional: natural decorations like pine sprigs, cinnamon sticks, or pinecones for embellishment

17. Wooden Tea Organiser Advent Calendar

The Tea Box Advent Calendar is a delightful choice for tea lovers, adding warmth and relaxation to the holiday countdown. Use a small tea caddy or box with multiple compartments, placing a unique tea bag or loose leaf tea in each slot or bag for each day leading up to Christmas.

Remember to number each bag or compartment or create small envelopes for each tea selection, offering a surprise flavour every day. This calendar is perfect for cozy winter moments, as each morning brings a new tea to enjoy, infusing the season with comforting flavors.

To enhance the experience, include a mix of holiday-themed teas like spiced chai, peppermint, or cranberry blends. You can even add small notes or festive quotes alongside each tea for a personal touch.

Materials Needed:

• Tea caddy or box with 24 compartments
• 24 different tea bags or loose leaf tea servings
• Number stickers or small envelopes for numbering each slot
• Optional: small notes or holiday quotes

18. Tins with Lid Advent Calendar

A DIY Advent calendar made from small tins with lids is a fun and versatile way to count down to Christmas. Collect 24 small tins with lids, and number each one from 1 to 24 using stickers, felt cut outs or paint. Fill each tin with a small treat, note, or holiday surprise, then arrange them in a display or stack them creatively, such as in a pyramid shape, on a shelf or table. This style is compact and easy to customize, fitting well in any space and adding a touch of modern charm to your holiday decor.

To add a festive touch, decorate each tin with holiday-themed wrapping paper, stickers, washi tape, or a bit of ribbon. You can even vary the contents to keep each day’s reveal exciting, from chocolates and tiny toys to festive messages or fun family activities. This Advent calendar is perfect for those who enjoy a neat, organized display that’s both stylish and filled with holiday surprises.

Materials Needed:

• 24 small tins with lids
• Number stickers, paint, or markers for numbering each tin
• Small treats, notes, or surprises for each day
• Optional: holiday stickers, washi tape, or ribbon for decoration

Creating your own Advent calendar is a beautiful way to add a personal touch to your holiday traditions. For added fun, consider creating a theme for your daily surprises, like holiday movie nights, acts of kindness, or family outings. No matter which style you choose, enjoy the process, and let each day’s reveal bring extra joy and warmth to your home this holiday season.