DIY: An Advent Calendar with Amy Blessing

One of my favorite things about homemade decor (apart from the fun of the doing) is that the result is a one-of-a-kind piece that couldn’t just be found at any store. The perfect example: this amazing take on an Advent calendar, created by the lovely and talented Amy Blessing, my source for all things beautiful, natural, and handmade. Amy was kind enough to walk me through creating this piece, which serves as much as a wonderful activity for the little ones as it does a festive holiday accent. Her easy-to-follow instructions, below. XXJKE

AB: To create your hanging Advent calendar, begin with the little bags (one for each day of Advent). You can sew your own (I used pretty hemp-colored linen and white cotton from ISW) or buy muslin bags with ties at your local craft store.

Next, adorn each of your bags with a number tag (I used paper tags with each number written in white marker) bells, ribbons, and tiny bits of greens to add warmth and character. Then, fill each with the treats of your choice to be opened up each day of Advent (I filled mine with special little trinkets in lieu of candy).

Finally, attach all your bags to a long piece of twine and hang horizontally from your fireplace or doorway – such fun for kids, and a great natural holiday accent for your home.

Photos: Michael Wells