This festive papercraft project is a lovely, eco-friendly way to count down the days to Christmas! The Advent calendar features a seasonal background set into a sturdy base, and the numbers are displayed on two cubes that can be turned around every day.
But wait! The cubes are not just cubes! They are in fact little gift boxes, designed to hold a small treat or two, that can be refilled each day!
Plus, you can make it using any colour cardstock you wish! I really like the feel of the brown kraft card paired with the snowy white details, but using more traditional Christmas colours makes it really stand out!
The digital templates for this advent calendar come as SVG cut files, and can be found in my Etsy shop.
To make one, you will need:
* Refillable Advent Calendar template (available as SVG cut files)
* Computer and printer to print the PDF instructions
* Digital cutting machine
* Patterned or solid colour cardstock (220-250gsm / 80-92lb recommended)
* Craft glue
Watch my video tutorial showing how to assemble the Advent calendar, and be sure to follow the tips below:
TIP 1 : After folding the score lines on the two cube gift boxes, glue the numbers onto them exactly as shown below.
TIP 2 : Assemble the base holder like a box frame, folding and gluing the two long sides in first, then neatly tucking the two short sides in.
TIP 3 : Apply glue along the base edge of the house, then carefully slide it in behind the two trees and attach it to the base. You can also add a little glue to the edges of the trees where they overlap the house to hold them in place.
TIP 4 : Glue the two side tabs underneath the white base so they are hidden.
Once assembled, your amazing Advent calendar is ready to go! On the countdown to Christmas, simply fill the two boxes each day with chocolates, small treats or little surprises 🍬
The best part of this craft is that it’s totally plastic free, and you can bring it out and enjoy it year after year!
Happy Christmas crafting!
Suzanne
