How to Make a Vintage Garland Advent Calendar

Linen, ribbon and vintage printables come together in this advent calendar, which is sure to become a family tradition.

By Marian Parsons, Mustard Seed Interiors
Filed under: Fabrics, Christmas, Holiday

Sew Pockets

Separate the freezer paper from the linen. Assemble pockets with right sides facing out. Cut 50 lengths of grosgrain ribbon to approximately eight inches each. Insert ribbon between two pieces of linen in the upper right corner (Image 1). Sew along the graphic, ensuring ribbon is sewn into the pocket as well (Image 2). Rotate the pocket and sew the bottom. Rotate again and sew up the left side. Insert ribbon at the upper left corner and finish sewing the pocket.

Fray and Trim Pockets

Gently pull threads from pocket edges to create a frayed border (Image 1). Trim excess threads (Image 2). Apply no-fray glue to raw edges of ribbon and allow to dry. Fill the pockets with candy and small presents to build the anticipation of Christmas day. Tip: This advent calendar can be used in a variety of ways. Tie on new pockets each day to increase the length of the banner or start the month with a full banner and remove the pockets at the end of each day (Image 3). Since it's a long banner, it's ideal for wrapping around a Christmas tree or draping along a banister.