Make This Festive Advent Calendar for Around $40

Mom, we wanted to give you something fun and easy to do with your kids to celebrate the holidays and remind them of the real reason behind the season. We’ve come up with this simple and inexpensive DIY advent calendar you can make at home and enjoy with your family all month long.

You can download your free printable Advent cards here.

Step 1: Measure 5 lengths of string about 4” longer than the width of your frame (or less for a taught fit).

• Or try this: Instead of string, try ribbon, twine or wire.
• How kids can help: Have them measure the lengths of string and hold it steady while you cut.

Step 2: Leaving extra space at the top, evenly space the 5 strings down the frame and mark with a pencil.

• Or try this: Instead of clipping clothespins to a string, glue them right onto the board.

Step 3: Glue the ends of the strings the side or back of the frame.

• Or try this: Instead of using glue, use decorative tacks, eyelets, or nails to secure the string.

Step 4: Using chalkboard pens, write across the top a special message such as “Countdown to Christmas”, “Advent” or “Merry Christmas”.

• Or try this: Instead of chalkboard, cover the backing of your frame with fabric, burlap, cork board, or wrapping paper.
• How kids can help: Let them help “decorate” with the chalk.

Step 5: Clip 5 advent cards, in order starting with 1, with clothespins to each row of string.

• Or try this: Print advent cards on the back of colorful stationary.
• How kids can help: Get their help clipping on the cards.

Step 6: Every day leading up to Christmas, flip over the next card to read the verse together and reflect on what the story means.

• Or try this: Fold the scripture so each day you unfold the bottom part of the scripture.
• How kids can help: Have them flip the cards and/or read the verse each day.

Twists on advent board:

1. Make use of a blank wall by taping the advent cards in the shape of a tree.
2. Instead of a board, use a long piece of ribbon or string across your mantle, and clip the advent cards in a line.
3. Don’t just use the board for advent, use it for lent, a countdown to school or another special occasion, to hang photos, quotes, or scriptures to memorize.

From all of us at Christian Mommy, we wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas, one that’s filled with love and special memories.