Advent calendars are one of my favourite festive traditions, and even as an adult I love the excitement of counting down the days until Christmas. I’ve never made my own advent calendar before, but this year I’m determined to swap a boring chocolate-filled cardboard box for something a little more imaginative and stylish. If you’re planning to do the same, here are a few ideas from around the web to get you started…
Baubles
First up is a beautiful advent display from Katy at Apartment Apothecary, who has used miniature pegs to hang a mix of festive decorations and packages from string. I love the way she’s chosen a chalkboard wall as a backdrop, but if you don’t have one yourself you can use labels to show the numbers.
For a full tutorial on how to create a similar calendar yourself, take a look at Katy’s post.
Pegs
Wooden pegs are also used in this calendar, this time to secure wrapped presents directly to a wall or board. Gift tags mark the dates, and pine cones, berries and little sprigs of fir add a festive touch.
I can’t find the original source for this image, so if it’s you please do let me know!
Boxes
I love the sleek simplicity of this advent calendar from Portland-based Shim & Sons. It consists of identical brown boxes marked with crisp white labels – a great option for minimalists.
Or how about this one from Sofia at Swedish blog Mokkasin? She has crafted paper boxes into miniature houses complete with Christmas trees, windows and flags marked with the dates – an enchanting idea for young children.
You needn’t buy boxes, either – the advent calendar below was made by Veronika at So Soft Sunday and uses geometric boxes folded from printable templates.
Paper bags
This idea from Rue Magazine is simple yet striking, and ideal if you don’t have much time to spare. Just stencil numbers onto paper bags, fill each one with a treat, and fold the tops over string decorated with a few strands of seasonal greenery.
Another take on paper bags comes from Julie Blanner and involves sticking them straight to the wall with patterned washi tape – something that could be done in minutes but still looks incredibly stylish.
Envelopes
If you don’t have enough room for a big advent display, try placing pretty envelopes inside a box – either make your own, or buy a kit such as this eye-catching version from One Must Dash. I love the idea of writing a festive activity or challenge to enjoy together on a postcard inside each one – something which works just as well for couples as for families.
Candles
Finally, if you have no time at all to make an advent calendar, how about an advent candle instead? There are some beautiful ones around this year, including Plum & Ashby’s spiced orange and berry version, which is available via my Christmas shop. Inspired by mulled wine, its scent combines zingy citrus notes with warming star anise and clove – perfect for cosy December evenings.
Images by the bloggers and brands named above
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