I can see why it's a good idea to keep advent calendars simple - making 24 or 25 of something is a lot of making! These little elves got wonkier and wonkier as the hour got later and later.
I used pre-cut paper dolls for this and paper and paint to decorate. Stickers for the number.And cut many hats, faces, tunics and collars. Call me lazy, but I gave up when it came to making 48 little shoes.
The presents are wish stars from recycled sheet music (my piano playing days are on hold...as there is no piano...) There is a clear tutorial for making these on Creative Chaos Art. They can be made in many sizes. Inside each star is a message with a Christmas activity or idea.
Next year I'll be keeping it simple. And I'm working on an elf paper doll template...I'll share it when it's ready...
I'm going to make an advent calendar today.
Why? Well I know there is lots to do at Christmas, but I really like advent calendars.
I like that they build the anticipation. The count down to Christmas. Tick off the days.
And they are great for kids to get their head around how many sleeps until Christmas.
Maybe if I have an advent calendar the kids will stop asking that?
So here are some ideas I've found....
Get folding -Origami Calendar from
homemade gifts made easy
Magnetic round tins from Twig and Thistle
Heaps of ideas with stationary from Omiyage
And I love this woodland scene calendar from decoideas
These would take some time to make but they look great and would be fun! Mini pinatas!
From gingerbread snowflakes
Simple series of paper cones - good one for the kids to make!Find out more at ikat bag
This interactive block puzzle one is fantastic! From kidspot New Zealand I love the way a picture appears as it gets closer to Christmas!
And I like how quick this one is! A big lucky dip grab box! From studio diy
So I'd better get making.
