This advent calendar is easy to make and there are lots of different options for customization! I love how colorful and festive it looks. The best part is that there is no sewing involved in making this advent calendar. Would you believe it is made from a simple over-the-door shoe organizer? Scroll down for the free printable template too!
Start by prepping the over-the-door shoe organizer by following the package instructions to hang the organizer over the door. Next, use a fabric steamer to reduce any wrinkles in the canvas.
Once the organizer is steamed, carefully remove the shoe organizer, but leave the hooks over the top of the door. Place the shoe organizer on a large, flat surface.
Once the organizer is laying flat, use paint markers to add some colorful designs! I chose to draw a simple border around each of the pockets. Leave space at the top of each pocket for the calendar numbers to be added.
Download and print the free printable advent number template. Use scissors or a 1.5-inch circle punch to cut out the calendar numbers.
Once all the numbers are cut out, arrange them onto pieces of card stock paper however you would like. Glue the numbers into place.
Once the glue has dried, use mini clothes pins to layer a piece of a fabric scrap, then the calendar number along the top edge of each pocket.
The pockets on the Mindspace over-the-door closet organizer are generously sized! You can fit lots of fun and festive goodies for each day. We wrapped our gifts in brown paper lunch bags and tied them with twine.
Alternatively, place a sealed envelope inside each one with a piece of paper containing a simple holiday activity for the family to enjoy. You will find a free printable with a list of advent activity ideas here!
Here are a few small gift ideas for what to include in your advent calendar. Mix and match them however you would like!
Have fun!!
Question – Do you have a great gift idea for an advent calendar that is not listed above? I would love to hear from you! Leave a comment and share your ideas with us!