Better late than never

Here it is. The finished advent calendar - only a day late! (the bell on the ribbon is to mark what day we're at).

I've been thinking about making one for the past few years and have found so many inspiring and orginal handmade versions recently that I had a hard time deciding what I wanted to make.

In the end, it was this calendar that inspired me most and although mine looks very different, it was the simplicity that I liked. I have embellished more than I originally intended and I may even do a little more in time (blanket stitch around some of the applique etc), or I may just leave it alone. The bottom line is that I'm thrilled with how it came out - not something I often say about my sewing. Tomorrow I will share with you some of its buried treasures (although there's absolutely nothing in there until first thing each morning as my children are far too sneaky not to be peeking all day!)

The children have been cheated out of missed out on their December 1st advent gift but I don't think they even noticed. We were planning a trip to the Santa parade in a nearby village but considering the temperature was -20C (yes, you did read that right!) with the wind chill, we decided to abandon the idea. We're expecting 2ft of snow in the next 24 hours. Gulp!

Comments

[Allison Rosen]

This is fabulous - I love the redwork style and the embellishing!

[Ellen]

What a clever idea. I have been toying with the idea of making a new advent calendar and just never saw one worth the bother. This one is cute and fun.

[Lutine]

Wahoo !!!
It is so beautiful !

[Emma]

I stumbled upon your beautiful advent calendar recently and it's just gorgeous. We're big on Christmas in my house! I hope you don't mind me asking, but did you use any interfacing in the main part of the wall-hanging? Thanks so much!

[Amber Petty]

Thank you so much for sharing! I've sat down today to make one, to avoid the holiday rush, and I'm about 2/3 done with it.

I did a blanket stitch around the appliques, and did change it up a bit, adding a bit more embroidery and filling all the squares with something. I already love it, and I know my boys will as well!

I'm thinking of making some for some young couples as a christmas gift, they will love it as much as the kids, I think!

[sineadconnolly@vodafone.ie]

Wow, That is amazing, Im just finished making my advent calender, I used felt and its nice but not as nice as this one. What material did you use for the main part of it??

[Christine]

Is it possible for you to let me know the dimensions of this calendar? I'm a beginning sewer and love the look of this!

[heather]

thanks for stopping by today, lina!!
i found your lovely advent calendar through crafty crow and wanted to be sure i directed people right to the source. have a happy day!! heather