An easy, last-minute Christmas Advent Calendar idea using a Christmas Countdown Free Printable and classic Christmas Countdown Paper Chain.
There are plenty of pretty extravagant DIY Advent Calendars flooding Pinterest. However, often we don’t have the time for “Pinterest-worthy” crafts. Growing up, I loved doing the traditional Christmas Countdown Paper Chain. We would make a simple paper chain using red and green construction paper. After that, we’d attach our finished countdown chain to our bedroom doors. Then every night before Christmas, we’d remove a link and get excited that the number of days was shrinking. So simple, yet honestly so fun.
I hope maybe some of you will make my childhood tradition part of your family’s tradition. Therefore, I created the Christmas Countdown Free Printable to elevate the Christmas Countdown Paper Chain. I also suggest using Christmas wrapping paper so that your chain is even more adorable. You can even take it one step further and write a note on each chain link. Perhaps you write love notes or Christmas Bucket List ideas. Whatever you do, remember to keep it stress-free and easy.
Instructions
Download: my free Large Christmas Countdown Printable (8″ X 10″). I also made it card size (5″ x 7″) Small Christmas Countdown Printable.
Print: print your Large Christmas Countdown Printable on 8.5″ x 11″ cardstock. Cut along the dashed line. (Note: To frame as 8″ x 10″ print, cut 0.5″ from the left and right sides.)
The smaller 5″ x 7″ card file also prints on 8.5″ x 11″ paper. Cut around dotted lines and frame or attach to Christmas presents.
Make your paper chain: The idea is that you (and your child) make a paper garland with a paper chain link for each day until Christmas. Use Christmas wrapping paper, scrapbooking paper or construction paper. Write notes on each link or keep blank, you decide how complicated you want to make this. Once your chain is complete, have your child attach the free printable as well as the paper chain to their bedroom door so they can countdown each night.
