Stitching Up the Perfect Holiday Tradition: How to Sew an Advent Calendar

The holiday season is fast approaching and one of the most beloved traditions is counting down the days until Christmas with an advent calendar. While store-bought advent calendars are easily accessible, nothing beats the heartfelt touch of creating one yourself. If you’re looking to add a personal and crafty touch to your holiday decor, learning how to sew an advent calendar is the perfect project for you. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create a unique and functional advent calendar that your family will treasure for years to come. All it takes is some fabric, thread, and basic sewing skills. Get ready to spread some holiday cheer with your very own handmade advent calendar!

What is an Advent Calendar?

An Advent Calendar is a special calendar used to count down the days of Advent in anticipation of Christmas. It typically starts on the 1st of December and ends on Christmas Eve. The name “advent” comes from the Latin word “adventus” which means “coming.” The purpose of an Advent calendar is to help individuals and families prepare for and celebrate Christmas by daily reminders or activities.

The tradition of counting down to Christmas can be traced back to the early 19th century in Germany. In its earliest form, it involved counting down with chalk marks on a door or lighting candles to mark each day leading up to Christmas. In the mid-19th century, printed Advent calendars began to be produced, and by the early 20th century, they became widely popular throughout Europe.

The Significance of an Advent Calendar

Many people have fond memories of opening up their Advent calendar each day leading up to Christmas. But aside from being a fun tradition, Advent calendars also hold significant meaning for Christians. It serves as a daily reminder of the true meaning of Christmas – the birth of Jesus Christ.

Each date on an advent calendar represents a day leading up to Christmas, with December 24th being represented by the largest and most elaborate door or window. Behind each door or window is usually a picture or verse related to the Nativity story. Some modern advent calendars also contain small gifts or treats behind each door.

Aside from providing children with daily surprises, opening an Advent calendar can also serve as a time for reflection and contemplation. Many families use this tradition as an opportunity to bond and spend quality time together during the busy holiday season.

Types of Advent Calendars

There are many different types of Advent calendars available today, catering to different preferences and needs. Traditional paper calendars are still prevalent, but there are also electronic ones, reusable ones, and DIY ones.

Paper Advent calendars can be purchased from stores or handmade using cardstock and craft supplies. Some have pre-printed images while others allow you to fill in your own pictures and verses. Electronic Advent calendars, on the other hand, can be downloaded as apps on mobile devices and often have interactive features.

Reusable Advent calendars are those that can be used year after year. They usually have pockets or drawers where you can place small treats or trinkets. These types of advent calendars are not limited to just paper; they can also be made from fabric, wood, or other materials.

DIY Advent calendars are gaining popularity as well. These involve making your own unique and personalized calendar using various materials such as jars, envelopes, boxes, or even clothespins. DIY Advent calendars allow for endless creativity and can be tailored to fit specific themes or decorations.

Making Your Own Advent Calendar

If you want to add a personal touch to your holiday traditions, making your own Advent calendar is an excellent option. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sew a fabric Advent calendar:

1. Gather Materials
You will need the following materials:
– Fabric (a large piece for the background and smaller pieces for pockets)
– Interfacing
– Ruler/measuring tape
– Pencil/chalk
– Scissors
– Thread and sewing machine
– Ribbon or twine
– Iron

2. Cut Out Fabric Pieces
Cut out two identical rectangles (approximately 17×21 inches) from your main fabric for the background of the calendar. Cut out 25 smaller squares (approximately 4×4 inches) from your pocket fabric.

3. Prepare Pockets
Fold each square in half diagonally with the right sides facing inwards. Sew along two edges with a seam allowance of half an inch, leaving one edge open for turning. Trim the excess fabric and turn the pockets right side out. Press them with an iron.

4. Sew Pockets onto Background Fabric
Lay out the main fabric and arrange the pockets on top, spacing them evenly. Pin them in place and sew along three edges, leaving the folded edge open. This will create 25 pockets for your Advent calendar.

5. Add Interfacing
Lay your interfacing on the wrong side of one of your background fabric pieces and iron it on following the manufacturer’s instructions. This will give your calendar some structure and make it easier to hang.

6. Sew Background Pieces Together
Place the two background pieces with right sides facing each other and sew along three edges, leaving one short edge open. Trim off any excess fabric, turn the piece right side out, and press it again.

7. Add Hanging Ribbon/Twine
Cut two pieces of ribbon or twine around 14 inches long each. Fold them in half and insert them between the two background pieces at the top edge (the one without a seam). Sew along this edge to secure the ribbon/twine in place.

8. Finishing Touches
To add a decorative touch to your Advent calendar, you can sew on small numbered tags or use fabric

The Importance of Sewing an Advent Calendar

Sewing an advent calendar is not just a fun holiday project, it has many benefits and serves multiple purposes. A handmade advent calendar holds a special meaning and adds a personal touch to the holiday season. Not only does it bring joy and excitement to children, but it also allows adults to tap into their creative side and express themselves through sewing.

First and foremost, sewing an advent calendar creates cherished memories that will last a lifetime. The holiday season is all about spending time with loved ones, and what better way to bond than by creating something together? Sitting down with your family or friends, selecting fabrics, designing and sewing the advent calendar will create meaningful memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Besides being a fun family activity, sewing an advent calendar also teaches important skills. For beginners, it is an opportunity to learn basic sewing techniques such as measuring, cutting and stitching. As you progress with more complex designs, you can learn new skills like applique, embroidery or quilting. These skills can be applied in other sewing projects beyond the holiday season.

Moreover, a DIY advent calendar is sustainable and eco-friendly. Instead of buying cheaply made plastic calendars that contribute to waste pollution, you are creating something durable and reusable. It not only saves money in the long run but also makes us more conscientious about our carbon footprint.

Lastly, sewing an advent calendar allows for customization. You can choose your own fabric patterns and colors to match your Christmas decorations or personalize it for each family member by adding their names or favorite characters. This makes the countdown to Christmas even more special as each day holds a surprise tailored specifically for your loved one.

How To Choose the Right Materials

Choosing the right materials when making an advent calendar is crucial in ensuring its durability and aesthetic appeal. You want materials that are easily accessible yet of good quality to create a lasting impression. Here are some tips on how to choose the right materials for your advent calendar.

Before selecting fabrics, consider the theme or color scheme of your advent calendar. Traditional Christmas colors like red, green, and gold are popular choices, but you can also opt for modern or quirky patterns and colors. Cotton is a great fabric choice as it is durable, easy to work with and comes in a wide selection of prints.

Next, determine the type of filling you will be using for your advent calendar pockets. The most common options are candy, small toys or trinkets, but you can also choose to include meaningful quotes or activities for each day. If you are using heavier fillings, ensure your fabric is thick enough to withhold their weight.

In terms of sewing supplies, make sure you have sharp scissors for precise cutting and needles suitable for the fabric type. Thread should match the fabric color and be strong enough to hold the filled pockets. Sewing machines make the process quicker and more efficient but can be substituted with hand-stitching if needed.

Lastly, get creative with decorations! Buttons, ribbons, beads and sequins can add a festive touch to your advent calendar. Consider using iron-on patches or embroidery to add personalized designs.

The Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have selected your materials let’s dive into the step-by-step guide on how to sew an advent calendar.

Step 1: Design Your Advent Calendar
Start by designing your advent calendar on paper. Decide on the shape (traditional square or rectangle shape or something more creative), size and placement of pockets. This will help guide you when cutting fabrics.

Step 2: Cut Fabric Pieces
Using your design as a reference, cut out 24 identical pieces of fabric for the pockets – this number can vary depending on how long you want your countdown to be. Then cut a larger backing piece for your calendar. You can choose to have all pockets the same fabric or mix and match for a more unique look.

Step 3: Sew the Pockets
Fold over the top edge of each pocket piece and hem it. Use zig-zag stitch or pink scissors to prevent fraying. Then place the pocket hems onto the backing fabric and secure with pins. Sew along the sides and bottom edges of each pocket, leaving the top open for filling.

Step 4: Add Decorations
Now is the time to add any decorations you desire. Get creative and use different materials to make your advent calendar stand out.

Step 5: Hang Your Calendar
Sew a loop on the back of your calendar to hang it on a wall or door. Alternatively, you can attach ribbon or cord to each end of the calendar for hanging purposes.

Step 6: Fill Your Pockets
Fill each pocket with your chosen surprises, activities or messages.

Step 7: Enjoy!
Hang your advent calendar and enjoy counting down the days until Christmas!

Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Advent Calendar

Sewing an advent calendar may seem like a daunting task, but with these tips and tricks, you’ll be sure to create a beautiful and

1. What supplies do I need to sew an Advent calendar?
To sew an Advent calendar, you will need fabric, scissors, thread, sewing machine (or needle and thread), iron, ruler, pins or clips, and embellishments such as buttons or ribbons.

2. Do I need to use a specific fabric for the Advent calendar?
No, you can use any type of fabric you’d like for your Advent calendar. However, it’s best to use a sturdy and durable material like cotton or linen that can withstand frequent use.

3. What are the basic steps to sew an Advent calendar?
The basic steps to sewing an Advent calendar include cutting out the fabric pieces for the pockets and backing, sewing the pockets onto the backing fabric, adding numbers or designs to each pocket, and finishing off by assembling and attaching any additional embellishments.

4. Can I personalize my Advent calendar with my own design?
Absolutely! You can personalize your Advent calendar with your own unique design by adding your favorite holiday-themed fabric or by using stencils or iron-on transfers for a more customized look.

5. Is it necessary to have advanced sewing skills to make an Advent calendar?
While some basic knowledge of sewing is required, making an Advent calendar can be a fun project for beginners as well. Following simple instructions and using easy techniques such as straight stitching and hand-sewing can result in a beautiful handmade Advent calendar.

6. How long does it take to sew an Advent calendar?
The time taken to sew an Advent calendar will vary depending on your skill level and the complexity of your design. On average, it can take anywhere from 2-3 hours for a simple design to a day or more for more intricate designs that involve multiple fabric pieces and embellishments.

In conclusion, sewing an advent calendar is a fun and meaningful way to celebrate the holiday season. By following the steps outlined in this guide, anyone can create a personalized and festive advent calendar that will be cherished for years to come. From selecting the right materials to planning out the design and construction, there are various aspects to consider when sewing an advent calendar. However, with patience, attention to detail, and some creativity, the end result will be a unique and special addition to holiday traditions.

The process of making an advent calendar also provides an opportunity for individuals to hone their sewing skills and express their creativity. It is also a great activity for families or friends to work on together, fostering teamwork and bonding over a shared project. Additionally, by using sustainable materials or upcycling old fabrics, one can contribute to reducing waste and creating a more environmentally-friendly holiday.

Furthermore, an advent calendar can serve as a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas – love, kindness, and giving. By filling each pocket with small acts of service or thoughtful gifts for loved ones, it can bring joy and warmth to both the giver and receiver throughout the holiday season.

Overall, sewing an advent calendar combines both practicality and sentimental value in a simple yet impactful way. Whether it becomes a new tradition

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.