Every year, we have customers who are looking to make their own Advent Calendars. In the past, we have created some ideas just using paper to show you a quick and easy way to put together an Advent Calendar.
Well this year, I wanted to create something a little different. When I was a kid, I loved the calendars that were interactive, where you opened a box or a pocket to reveal *something secret within.* So when I went to create this Advent Calendar, I kept that in mind.
Supplies you will need:
2-3 pieces of printed cardstock, for decorating the calendar
2-3 pieces of solid colored cardstock (at least one of these needs to be 12" x 12")
3 pieces of 12" x 12" chipboard
The Ultimate glue and/or hot glue
Rotary paper cutter- for cutting chipboard
Score board with bone folder
Double-sided tape
Scissors for fussy cutting
Ink pad for "inking" (not necessary, but adds a neat effect)
(4 pieces) 2" x 12" for the outside frame
(4 pieces) 2" x 9" for the inside frame
(24 pieces) 2" x 1 1/2" for each little shelf
*I used recycled chipboard that I already had. I plan to cover my chipboard with other paper so I am not so worried about the cosmetics of the chipboard itself. It's completely up to you whether you want to cover or paint the chipboard. If you do, this is the time to do so! *
*Don't worry if it doesn't match up perfectly!!*
I cut 1 of the strips down to 3" pieces and scored them in the center. I was able to then seal off the corners of my chipboard frame with those pieces.
I used 4 of the remaining black strips to cover the remaining exposed edges of the outer chipboard frame. It makes it look very finished from the outside.
In the morning, you can fix and adjust any shelves that are out of place or are crooked by using hot glue to allow for quick drying. I found that not all of my shelves were *exactly* 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" ... And after I did some adjusting I realized I had to accept that mine was not going to be perfect. So, if yours ends up perfectly even, I congratulate you!!
I used double sided tape at this point so that I could adjust which door which match up with with cubby. If you made your cubbies all exactly 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" , then you should score your doors at 1 5/8"
On other tabs, I used a 3/4" circle punch and made a little thumb tab!
Lay out all your numbers, 1 - 24 and lay them down accordingly looking at the calendar below.
You can fill your little cubby holes with all sorts of fun candies, toys, notes, scripture... whatever your heart desires!!
And, the best part is, you can use it YEAR AFTER YEAR!!
It is so perfect, and for those of you who love to make things like this, you're sure to love the results!
This turned out so cute!! I hope it inspires you to make your own!!