DIY Advent Calendars: A Thoughtful (and Sustainable) Way to Count Down to the Holidays

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There’s something magical about the countdown to the holidays. This year, instead of buying a pre-made advent calendar filled with plastic trinkets or excess packaging, why not make your own?

Creating a DIY advent calendar is not only a fun way to get creative, but it’s also a meaningful way to give gifts that align with your values and are custom-tailored to the recipient.

And if you’re planning to fill your calendar with cozy basics, now’s a great time, we’re offering 10% off bundles until October 25 with code ADVENT10. It’s the perfect way to stock up for your DIY advent project while saving a little, too.

Step 1: Choose Your Calendar

Start by deciding how you’ll house your surprises. You can repurpose:

Small fabric pouches or drawstring bags
Recycled paper boxes or envelopes
Jars, tins, or even reusable cloth wraps

Arrange them in a basket, hang them on a branch, or string them up across your wall, whatever fits your space and aesthetic.

The exact one we're using is from The Cotton Lane.

Step 2: Pick a Theme (or Don’t)

You can keep things simple and mix in a variety of small treats, or go with a theme that fits you or your loved one perfectly.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

The Self-Care Calendar

Fill each day with something to help you unwind:

A pair of cozy socks (our organic cotton ones are perfect for this)
A candle
Herbal teas
Bath salts

or even little handwritten affirmations!

The “Get Fit” Calendar

If your goal is to start the new year feeling strong and inspired, create a wellness-themed advent calendar. Add in:

Active socks for your workouts
A reusable water bottle you’ve been eyeing
A membership or pass to a local studio or gym
A sports bra (like our organic cotton one) for comfort during your workouts
Healthy snacks for energy boosts

It’s a great way to motivate yourself, or a loved one, with intentional, useful gifts that encourage movement and self-care.

The Cozy at Home Calendar

For the homebody in your life (or yourself), think cozy:

A pair or two of soft, merino wool socks — the ultimate small luxury
A book or journal
A mug
Some fair-trade chocolate
A small DIY craft kit or puzzle

The Kids’ Countdown Calendar

Get the little ones involved with their own DIY version. It’s a great family project and an opportunity to teach kids about giving, creativity, and sustainability.
Fill their advent bags or boxes with:

Stickers or stamps
Craft supplies or a mini art project
A pair of festive Holiday Socks
Homemade coupons (like “pick the movie tonight” or “bake cookies with mom”)
A tiny puzzle piece each day that builds up to a full puzzle by Christmas Eve
Treats like dried fruit or homemade cookies

You can even make it interactive, let them help fill part of the calendar for a sibling or a friend to show how giving can be just as fun as receiving.

Step 3: Wrap It With Love

Use recyclable wrapping paper, kraft paper, or reusable cloth wraps to present your gifts. Number each one with a marker or stamp, and you’re ready to start the countdown.

Making your own advent calendar turns the holiday rush into something slower, more personal, and more meaningful. Whether you’re filling it for yourself, a loved one, or your kids, you’ll find that the most thoughtful surprises, like a cozy pair of socks, are the ones that warm more than just your feet.

Socks also make one of the most thoughtful and practical gifts to include in advent calendars — or to give on their own. Our bundles make it easy to stock up on styles for everyone on your list. Whether it’s a cozy pair for chilly mornings, a fun print for the kids, or soft undyed socks for someone with sensitive skin, sock bundles let you gift comfort that lasts well beyond the holidays.

And if you’re ready to start creating your own advent calendar, don’t forget — 10% off sock bundles ends October 25 with code ADVENT10.