December seems to sneak up on me every year, which wouldn’t be too worrisome except it means that I never seem to have my advent calendar ready in time. Actually, to be fair, last year was the first year we decide to do an advent calendar. But I was late then and I can already sense a pattern forming. The solution to this problem is a simple one – man up and either buy or make a calendar substantial enough to be used year after year (sadly last year’s version just doesn’t fit the bill). Then it would just be a matter of digging it out of storage in time.
This Crafty Advent Calendaris one the kids can help make – so you know I love it. The kit comes with 150 pre-cut felt shapes ready to peel and stick.
A Matryoshka Advent Calendar – need I say more?
This simple and stylish Amsterdam Advent Calendar is a perfect fit for the Christmas purest.
If you want to take a stab at making your own calendar but aren’t sure where to start, this Christmas Advent Calender Kit found on Etsy could come in very handy (and it’s only $23!).
The Kids’ Felt Appliqued Christmas Advent Calendarfrom The Land of Nod is also very cheerful. Plus it comes with a friendly mini Santa to move from square to square. Perfect if the kids need help keeping track or if you don’t want to come up with an activity or gift for each day.
And speaking of Calendars used solely for counting down and not gifting. Here’s a happy and modern version (comes in 12 possible colors)…
….here’s a funky salvage art version…
…and here’s a large scale interactive wall decor version. There are 4 tree shapes to choose from and you get to customize the colors of the tree, star, and ornaments used to cover each passing day.
I love the elegant style of this shimmery linen Advent Calendar, which also comes with a sweet bear for marking the date.
This one won’t hold up to years of use but the look is definitely on point.
How sweet is this baby sock Advent calendar DIY via Martha?
Here’s a non-DIY Mini-Felt- Stockings-Calendar from Garnet Hill.
And a similar Etsy version of 24 knit mini mittens.
This spectacular large scale Etsy creation was made using felt and a canvas shoe rack. Unfortunately it’s sold but you could always convo the seller and beg her to make another or, if you’re feeling brave, have a go at making one of your own.
Here’s another handmade Etsy find. It’s not cheap but the details are impressive.
Infuse some numbered envelopes with your own signature style using this Crafter’s Pack Advent Calendar Kit.
Still Christmas shopping? Don’t forget to check out all of MPMK’s 2012 Christmas Gift Guides (for builders/innovators, dramatic play, kids on the go, little explorers, the creative & crafty, and etc). Just click below:
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WOW – I haven’t decided what I will do this year! All those choices are beautiful. I struggle with the gifts issue and may just write a love note or activity card in my pockets. I’m working on a monster quilt now and am trying SO hard not to start anything new until it is done!
I really love the baby sock idea. I think I’m going to do that one! You can find socks in the dollar section at Target sometimes…I’m hoping to find some this week!
I love Advent calendars! I made a pleated pocket calendar that is rather like the one made from a shoe organizer. I plan to fill it with some making for holiday outfits, little activities, and some holiday toys. I’m still searching for ideas that will work well for a two-year-old and his baby sister.
I made a mini-muffin tin Advent Calendar. We are putting small pieces of chocolate into the holes each evening for the kiddos to open in the morning. We are also doing the book/activity idea each day.
Can’t wait!!
I buy one of these. every day they get a new “piece” it’s a total hit. and makes a complete set at the end. no effort on my part!
http://store.playmobilusa.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-US-Site/en_US/Product-Show?pid=4161&cgid=Weihnachten
We have a wooden advent calendar with drawers. I scroll up a little clue each day for a scavenger hunt. My daughter finds all sorts of treats throughout the house. What a fun way to wake up!
There aren’t words to describe how much I adore the baby sock idea.
I found one on Etsy last year that was a big hit with my family – you build the nativity one day at a time!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/63493997/christmas-nativity-advent-calendar?ref=sr_gallery_5&ga_search_query=nativity+advent&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=all
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