Countdowns are fun, and countdowns that include surprises are even better. Tomorrow marks the start of advent calendar season and, whether or not you celebrate Christmas, crafting a calendar is a winter activity anyone can enjoy. If making a month’s worth of treat containers sounds daunting, don’t worry. We’ve collected ten of our favorite DIY ideas that are totally doable. Some are made for filling with prizes while others feature family bonding ideas. Whichever one you choose, making winter mornings something to look to forward is the type of holiday magic we can all appreciate.

1.

With some paint and yarn, we transformed a peg board into a 2-D Christmas tree (above). Paper ornaments, hung with mini clothespins, flip to reveal fun family activities. Get the full how to from Country Living.

2.

For an easy option that packs a graphic punch, check out Super Make It’s paper bag advent calendar for Parents magazine. Add clothespins to painted triangles to create a forest of cheery trees that will brighten up any room.

3.

Is there anything more appealing than a pile of presents? Create every kids’ dream on a smaller scale by folding paper bags and adding bows. Idea via Tell Love and Party.

4.

This paper city is the kind of calendar you’ll be tempted to let live on your mantle year round. Download the free printables from Mr Printables to construct your own tiny town.

5.

For a more personal cityscape that doubles as a photo display follow instructions from The House that Lars Built. The treats in this calendar are pictures of loved ones, and really, what’s sweeter than that?

6.

A Subtle Revelry‘s pill case calendar certainly proves that good things come in small packages. Just add numbers to turn this drug store staple into a pint-sized present holder.

7.

Add another layer of fun to the advent surprises by making a punch cup calendar. Your kids will have a hard time waiting to reveal the next treat. FamilyFun magazine shares the how to.

8.

For another active advent calendar, try these pretty piñatas from Fabric de Imaginacion . Paper pyramids fit all sorts of sweet surprises, or fill them with confetti for an indoor snow flurry!

9.

Give empty cans an upcycled makeover with some spray paint and tissue paper tops. Stacked into a pyramid they make for eye catching display that can be used year after year. Project found via Room Envy.

10.

Finally, if you’d rather buy an advent calendar but still appreciate some DIY elements, the 25 days of stickers from Pipsticks is a great option. Each envelope hides a seasonal sticker sure to spark new crafting ideas. (And while you’re there, order a sticker subscription for a monthly dose of sticker joy in your kid’s mailbox!)

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November 30, 2017| Activities, Christmas, Decor, DIY Home, Family Bonding, Grown-Up, Holidays