DIY Advent Calendar

It’s November but Christmas has hit the stores and TV commercials everywhere. I love Christmas, but I don’t get started on anything until after Thanksgiving. But since this year I decided to make my first ever Advent Calendar, I had no choice but get an early start.

Last night, after I walked and bathed the dogs, cleaned up the kitchen, cut my son’s hair, and finished the laundry,  I parked myself in front of Kourtney & Khloe Take the Hamptons and worked away on my Advent pouches. (Side note: I can never understand why the Kardashians complain so much, considering the luxury they live in. Seriously – having a house in the Hamptons (with a chef, housekeepers, nannies, drivers, etc.) – you’ve got nothing to complain about – NOTHING.

This vent has been brought to you by Sabine. Back to my pouches.

Of course, you don’t need an Advent calendar to know that Christmas is coming, but opening a little numbered door to reveal a prize is an idea that my children and I have loved for years. In case you’re not familiar with Advent calendars, here’s a brief history.

What is Advent?
Advent marks the beginning of the Christmas season. Advent derives from the Latin word for ‘coming’ (of Christ) and has been celebrated since the fourth century. Advent is composed of the four Sundays before December 25, starting on the Sunday closest to November 30^th, the feast day of St. Andrew the Apostle.

What’s behind an Advent Calendar Door?

Advent calendars typically begin on December 1 and mark the 24 days before Christmas. Today, most Advent calendars include paper doors that open to reveal an image, Bible verse, small toy, small ornament, or piece of chocolate. The tradition dates to the mid-19th century, when Germans made chalk marks on doors or lit candles to count the days leading up to Christmas.

Growing up in Germany, an Advent Calendar and an Advent Wreath were always part of our Christmas tradition. As children we couldn’t wait to open a door each day. Sometimes I cheated and went ahead… the chocolate was simply too yummy.

This year, I made a reusable Advent calendar. Here’s the process:

Remember the fabric I ended up with when I visited this event? The event was all about upcycling and the fabric was perfect for the pouches. I chose neutral colors, but any color is fine.

Cut out a circle and add chocolate or little toys.

Tie  into a pouch.

You can hang them using a paper clip or ornament hook.

Or you can set them on a window sill or shelf.