Creating a DIY handmade advent calendar is a fun, creative, and meaningful way to count down to the holidays. Whether you’re crafting one for your kids, a loved one, or even for your customers as a unique brand gesture, a handmade advent calendar allows you to personalize every detail. You can fill each day with small gifts, messages, activities, or treats, turning the anticipation of the holiday season into a joyful experience.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making your own advent calendar, offer creative ideas for what to include inside, and explain how this simple project can create long-lasting memories.
Step 1: Choose a Format
There’s no one “correct” way to make an advent calendar. Start by choosing the basic structure that suits your style, space, and purpose.
Popular DIY formats include:
- Paper envelopes hung on string, pinned to a corkboard, or clipped to a rope with clothespins.
- Small boxes arranged in a gift box or drawer-style layout.
- Drawstring pouches hung on a branch or wooden hanger.
- A large poster or board with mini doors or flaps to open.
- Fabric calendars with sewn pockets or felt shapes attached to a backing.
Choose a format that fits your time, budget, and skill level. For something simple, envelopes or paper bags work perfectly. If you enjoy crafting or sewing, go for something more elaborate.
Step 2: Gather Your Supplies
Your materials will depend on the format you’ve chosen, but generally, here’s what you may need:
- Cardstock or decorative paper
- Scissors or craft knife
- Ruler
- Glue, tape, or hot glue gun
- String or ribbon
- Mini boxes or envelopes
- Number stickers or a marker
- Small decorations (stickers, glitter, washi tape, etc.)
Optional items:
- Fabric and needle if sewing pockets
- Wooden board or frame for mounting
- Hooks or clips
Step 3: Number and Arrange
Advent calendars typically count from 1 to 24 or 1 to 25, but you can also do shorter versions (like 12 days of Christmas). Once you’ve decided, label each envelope, box, or pocket clearly. You can number them chronologically or arrange them in a fun, random order so the recipient has to hunt for the right one each day.
Layout ideas:
- In the shape of a tree
- In rows like a calendar grid
- Scattered like a treasure hunt
- Mounted on a backing board for wall hanging
Step 4: Fill with Surprises
Now comes the most exciting part—choosing what to put inside each day’s compartment. The best DIY advent calendars are personal and thoughtful.
Ideas for kids:
- Mini toys
- Stickers
- Chocolate or candy
- Puzzle pieces (add a few per day)
- Notes with jokes, riddles, or fun challenges
Ideas for adults:
- Tea bags or coffee pods
- Lip balm, candles, or bath salts
- Chocolates or gourmet snacks
- Daily quotes, affirmations, or handwritten notes
- Coupons for self-care moments (e.g., “Tonight: 1 movie of your choice”)
Ideas for couples:
- Love notes
- Memory prompts (e.g., “Remember our first trip together?”)
- Tiny gifts or inside jokes
- Plans for shared experiences (e.g., “Let’s bake cookies tonight!”)
Business or promotional idea: Brands can use advent calendars to send to VIP customers or partners, with:
- Branded merch
- Discount codes
- Product samples
- Daily messages or QR codes to interactive content
Step 5: Display and Enjoy
Once your calendar is assembled and filled, display it in a place where it adds holiday cheer — on a mantel, a bookshelf, a wall, or even as a centerpiece. Open one compartment each day and enjoy the little surprise. The act of revealing something new every day creates a beautiful sense of anticipation and joy.
Final Thoughts
A handmade advent calendar isn’t just about the countdown — it’s a celebration of thoughtfulness, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re giving it to someone you love or making it for yourself, it’s a heartfelt tradition that brings warmth to the season.
And if you’re looking to take your advent calendar to a professional level for business or retail — with custom designs, creative layouts, and high-quality packaging — our team at DST Pack is here to help. We specialize in creating custom advent calendars for businesses that want to engage customers in a unique and festive way.
Want to learn more? Get in touch with DST Pack and let’s make something magical together.
