Counting the Days

until Christmas!

I recently made this Advent Calendar for my great nephews and niece.

It was a printed panel by Makower UK.

I simply cut and stitched the pockets onto the background, and

used coordinating fabrics for backing, binding and loops for hanging. 

I used a gold metallic thread for top stitching the pockets. 

I also added a layer of fusible batting between the front and backing, providing a little more stability.

Then the real fun began:  gathering goodies for the pockets!

I was able to locate several small ornaments, toys, holiday candies, and other assorted trinkets.

Some items were too large for the pockets.  On those days, a written clue will be slipped into the pocket, and the gift given after the clue is found and read.

I will always love childrens' books.  Some of my most cherished memories are moments spent reading to my son when he was young..  I was glad to find several classic holiday stories, as well as some newer ones.

Needless to say, the books will not fit into the small calendar pockets!  So, clues were printed on slips of paper and inserted into the appropriate pockets.  Some of the gifts or ornaments coordinate with the stories.

The Three Wise Men and their camels have always been a favorite part of the Christmas story.  I was thrilled to discover this new-to-me book.  Who could resist that face?  It's very sweet message is about the lesson of giving, instead of receiving.

I included the star ornament to coordinate with this book.

Who does not like Mary Engelbreit?

This is her holiday A-Z book for children.  Imagine my delight when I discovered ornaments almost exactly like the fun letters in the book!  There is one ornament representing each child's first name.

Of course, I had to include a copy of this book.  Trains are very special to our family.

Jingle bells, which resemble sleigh bells, coordinate nicely with this book.

There is not much time left to make an Advent Calendar!  Here are some of the items I included, as well as some other ideas.

Printed Bible verses, poems or other sentiments

Holiday ornaments

Small candy

Jingle bells

Supplies for making Reindeer Food

Books

Crayons, markers and coloring books

Holiday CDs and DVDs

Holiday cookie cutters for a fun day in the kitchen

Cocoa mix and marshmallows

Supplies for holiday crafts

Small mirror with note.  The reflection of the child is a gift from God, and their gift back to God.

Small decorative erasers, plastic animals, and vehicles

Stickers

Pieces of a puzzle to be collected and assembled during the month

Small figures and pieces of a Nativity

The most important ingredient:  Love!

Have fun marking and celebrating this special season.