Create a Magical DIY Advent Calendar with Printable Gingerbread Row Houses
Are you ready to add some extra magic and wonder to your Christmas countdown? Look no further! In this blog post, we will show you how to create a delightful and distinctive DIY advent calendar using printable gingerbread row houses. With their charming pink and mint accents, falling snow, and mouth-watering decorations like lollipops, mints, and gumdrops, these gingerbread houses are sure to bring joy to your holiday season.
Printing the Gingerbread Row House Kit
To get started, you will need to print the gingerbread row house kit. We recommend using 80lb cardstock for sturdy and more durable boxes that will withstand the anticipation of little hands. Load your printer with the cardstock, making sure it is aligned properly, and hit print. Once the printing is complete, let the ink dry for a few minutes to prevent any smudging during the assembly process.
Folding and Assembling the Boxes
Now that you have the printed kit in your hands, it's time to unleash your creative spirit! Start by carefully cutting out each gingerbread house design along the edges. Take your time to ensure clean and precise cuts.
Next, fold along the designated lines to create the base of each box. The fold lines are conveniently indicated on the template, making assembly a breeze. Once the base is formed, secure the edges using a gentle adhesive or strong double-sided tape.
After you've constructed all 24 boxes, you can begin the fun part - decorating each one! Let your imagination run wild as you adorn the houses with falling snow, vibrant lollipops, tempting mints, and delightful gumdrops. Get creative with your designs and make each box uniquely enchanting.
Creating the Hanging Tree
No advent calendar is complete without a beautiful hanging tree to showcase the gingerbread row houses. For this, you will need wooden dowel rods of various lengths, which can be found at your local craft store. Start by arranging the dowel rods in a cluster, ensuring they are of different heights to create an eye-catching display. Once you are satisfied with the arrangement, secure the rods together by wrapping yarn or ribbon around the ends several times and tying off at the top. To add a whimsical touch, place a star on top of the hanging tree. Make sure it shines as brightly as the rest of your holiday decor. Additionally, consider adorning the dowel rods with gingerbread garland to match the festive theme.
Hanging the Boxes on the Tree
Now it's time to attach the gingerbread row house boxes to the wooden dowel rods. Using a hole punch, create a hole at the top of each box. Be sure not to punch the holes too close to the edge to prevent any tearing.
Take colorful ribbons and thread them through the holes, tying each one securely around the dowel rods. Make sure that each box is evenly spaced and visually appealing. Adjust the length of the ribbon as necessary to achieve your desired arrangement.
FILL THE BOXES WITH GOODIES
Filling the boxes with special goodies is the perfect way to celebrate the magic of the holidays. You can purchase a bundle of magnets, acrylics, stickers, or memory game cards from GoodnightFox and directly fill your boxes with treats. Or you can find great items from handmade shops like felt gingerbread, hair clips, toy cars, crayons and more to stuff each box.
The Magic of a Surprise Box Countdown
And there you have it - your very own DIY advent calendar! The surprise box countdown offers a magical and exciting experience for kids and adults alike. Each day leading up to Christmas, they can open a box and discover a delightful surprise inside. It could be a sweet treat, a small toy, or a handwritten note filled with love and joy.
As the days pass, the anticipation builds, creating a memorable and cherished tradition within your household. With its charming gingerbread row houses, this DIY advent calendar is not only a beautiful decoration, but also a source of excitement and wonder for the entire family.
So, why wait? Start printing, folding, decorating, and assembling to bring the spirit of Christmas into your home with this delightful DIY advent calendar. Watch as the magic unfolds, creating lasting memories for years to come. Have a joyful countdown to Christmas with this enchanting surprise box calendar, and embrace the holiday spirit in true gingerbread style!
For my advent calendar, I used amazing goodies from these small shops!
1 - Snap clips by @eviepearlhandmade
2 - Signs by @finding_foley
3 - Ornaments/tags by @frankieandbettyco
4 - Gingerbread felt cookies by @pockets.of.sweetness
5 - Resin pieces by @_thesensorybee_
6 - Doh cups by @capptivatingplay
7 - Stickers by @goodnightfox
8 - Santa Crayons by @creativecrayonsworkshop
9 - Bows by @elisaslittleblossoms
10 - Lollipops by @thelittlepinkpanda
11 - Flags by @bloomgrowco
12 - Confetti Packet by @theconfettibar