Craft Your Own Hanging Advent Countdown

Time needed: Approximately 1 day (including drying times)

This delightful hanging advent calendar is not only easy to assemble in less than a day but also allows for incredible personalization. Crafted from scrap wood and materials found in your existing craft stash, it’s a budget-friendly project that brings immense holiday cheer. Follow these detailed steps to create your own bespoke Christmas countdown!

1. Prepare Your Wooden Base: Cut or Locate 1×2 Scrap Wood

   Begin by finding or cutting a piece of 1×2 scrap wood to serve as the main horizontal base for your advent calendar. A length of approximately 16.5 inches works perfectly, providing ample space for your decorative elements. Don’t worry if this piece of wood was originally intended for another project; the beauty of crafting with scraps is giving them a new, purposeful life. If you don’t have a 1×2, any similar flat piece of wood can be adapted. Ensure the edges are smooth by giving it a quick sanding, especially if it’s a rough cut or reclaimed piece.

2. Drill Holes and Paint the Base

   Next, prepare your wooden base for hanging. Using a drill, create a hole on each end of the 1×2 piece. Aim for these holes to be about half an inch from each end, allowing enough margin for stability when hung. Precision isn’t paramount here; a slight variation adds to the handmade charm. Once the holes are drilled, it’s time to add some color. Apply a quick coat of your chosen paint (perhaps a neutral, earthy tone to fit the boho aesthetic, or a festive color) to the entire 1×2 piece. Allow it to dry completely according to the paint manufacturer’s instructions. This step not only adds to the aesthetic but also protects the wood.

3. Craft Your Paper Squares: Cut and Fold

   Now, select some beautiful scrapbook paper or cardstock that complements your holiday decor. Dark green, earthy tones, or metallic patterns can add to the boho charm. Using a utility or craft knife and a straight edge, carefully cut out 25 squares, each measuring 2-1/2 inches. Precision in this step will ensure your final calendar has a neat and cohesive look. Once all squares are cut, score each one diagonally down the middle from corner to corner. Then, fold along this scored line to create a triangular shape. These will eventually form the “pockets” for your daily advent activities or treats.

4. Create Wooden Triangle “Trees” from Scrap Wood

   This step adds a wonderful three-dimensional element to your calendar. From a piece of 1/2-inch poplar or similar scrap wood, cut various sized triangles to resemble abstract trees. While exact perfection isn’t necessary, aiming for an isosceles shape (two sides of relatively equal length, creating a flat base and a peaked top) will give them a natural, tree-like appearance. Experiment with cutting angles of 30, 25, or 20 degrees, and vary their heights by a few inches to create a dynamic display. When making small cuts on a miter saw, always prioritize safety. Consider gluing smaller scrap pieces together to form a “jig” – this helps stabilize the wood and makes cutting safer by preventing pieces from flying. If you’re not confident with a miter saw, a scroll saw is an excellent alternative for intricate, small cuts. Remember your safety gear throughout this process!

5. Stain, Glue, and Hang the Wooden Elements

   Once your wooden triangles are cut, it’s time to add some depth with stain. I used Varathane Flagstone, which offers a rich, natural finish, but any wood stain that suits your aesthetic will work. Apply the stain evenly and allow it to dry completely. After staining, arrange your wooden triangles in a staggered, visually pleasing pattern along your painted 1×2 baseboard. Secure them firmly with wood glue. Once the glue has set, thread your chosen string or twine through the pre-drilled holes on either end of the 1×2 base. Leave enough slack in the string to comfortably hang your advent calendar on a hook or nail, creating a beautiful and stable display.

6. Prepare and Attach the Numbered Paper Triangles

   Now for the countdown magic! Take your folded paper triangles and attach gold number stickers (1-25) to the outside of each one. These numbers should be clearly visible. To create the hanging elements, attach each numbered paper triangle to individual lengths of string. You can use double-sided sticky dots from your scrapbooking stash to secure the paper to the string, ensuring the triangle remains folded and acts as a small pocket. Originally, I considered using a staple gun on a square dowel for a V-shape display, but found that simple washi tape worked beautifully and was easily concealed by the dowel itself. Attach these strings to a square wood dowel or directly to the main 1×2 base using additional washi tape or small pieces of string, arranging them attractively below the wooden trees.

   

7. Fill Your Calendar with 25 Good Deeds or Activities

   This is where your advent calendar truly comes to life! There are countless options for what to include inside each numbered paper triangle. You could write small scrolls detailing daily family Christmas activities, such as “put up the Christmas tree,” “bake holiday cookies,” “watch a Christmas movie,” or “fill stockings.” Other popular choices include daily inspiring quotes about Christmas, meaningful Bible verses, or even small, eco-friendly treats. My personal favorite approach is to fill each day with a “good deed” or act of kindness to perform during the holiday season. Examples include “volunteer your time at a local charity,” “buy or make an eco-friendly gift for someone,” “buy a coffee for the person in line behind you,” “write a thank-you note to a service worker,” “donate old toys or clothes,” or “call a loved one you haven’t spoken to in a while.” This transforms the calendar into a meaningful journey of generosity and connection.

8. Dress Up Your Calendar and Enjoy the Countdown

   For a final, delightful touch, consider adding some greenery or other festive embellishments to your advent calendar. A sprig of faux pine, some eucalyptus leaves, or small berries can add a pop of color and help the calendar blend seamlessly with your existing holiday decor. This step is entirely optional but can significantly enhance the visual appeal. Once decorated, hang your beautiful boho advent calendar in a prominent spot in your home and eagerly anticipate opening each day’s surprise. Enjoy the magic of counting down to Christmas with a handmade creation that embodies both your creativity and the true spirit of the season!