Advent Calendar

Recently I saw an Advent Calendar

I thought it was super cute - but even with a discount it was a little too pricey for me. 

So I decided to make my own. 

Mine cost me only $2.50.  The secret?  Free paint sticks - the large ones.

 You'll need 7 paint sticks - but grab 8 in case you mess up, like me.

Cut your paint sticks to the following sizes:

2 pieces- 11 1/2"
1 piece- 11"
2 pieces - 8 3/4"
8 pieces- 4 1/4"
13 pieces- 2"


Begin assembly. Attach using glue and a brad nailer.  The top and bottom pieces (11 1/2")  are the length of the box so nail the sides (8 3/4) accordingly. The box should measure 11 1/2 X 9 1/4.

Measure down 4 1/4 from the top on both sides. Mark and insert middle piece (11")

Next is the part that takes some time and patience.  Insert all the 4 1/4 pieces. Each large box opening is 2" x 2" and small openings are 7/8" x 2". I should have took a picture before I added the 2" pieces but at that point I just wanted to finish it.  I placed some of the pieces horizontal and some vertical. Do a dry fit first.  Some of the pieces I couldn't nail on both sides so I just glued both and nailed one side.

(You can see that I missed the wood with the nails in a few places and some pieces are a little crooked)


Next fill the holes, then paint.  I would recommend spray painting. I ran out after one coat so I ended up painting with a foam brush and it was a pain.

Next i'ts time to cut out your boxes. I used my silhouette and bought the 1 drawer box and 2 drawer box online. That's where I spent $2.

I only used the box part and I played around with the size a little bit using plain paper until I got it right.  The boxes are a little deeper than the frame, so they stick out the back a little bit, but it doesn't bother me too much.

I used Christmas paper that I've had for ages.

For the numbers, I used these diy rub-ons I got at a yard sale for $0.50. I just followed the instructions. 

Last but not least, fill each box with a little treat and enjoy counting down the days til Christmas!


You may also like my Charm Advent Christmas Tree.