Add Garland

Once your ladder is in place, add greenery by winding the garland around the ladder, securing with floral wire as you go.

Add Rope

With the garland in place, layer in the rope, securing with floral wire.

Cut and Paint Planks

Measure, mark and cut your 1x6 boards to fit across the ladder, sitting on each rung. Cut seven planks in all. Once cut, spray-paint each board with dark green paint for an aged look.

Attach Green Planks

Position each plank, pre-drill a hole, then attach the plank to the rung below using a screw. Repeat this on each side until all planks are secure.

Cut and Paint Calendar Squares

Using the remaining 1x6 boards, measure, mark and cut nine 6"-wide squares. You’ll need these for one-digit days (December 1-9). For the smaller two-digit numbers (December 10-19), you’ll need a 7.5"-wide piece of board. For the last five days (December 20-25), cut an 8"-wide piece. Once dusted off, roll red paint onto the squares' front and back, then let dry.

Add Numbers and Hooks

If you want, spray-paint the numbers (we chose white), but make sure they are completely dry before screwing them onto the squares. To hang, add a small brass cup hook at the top. Make sure to center it so that the square will hang correctly.

Hang Calendar Squares

Starting with the top green plank, use a measuring tape to mark where each cup hook should go on the horizontal planks. Predrill a hole, then screw the eye hook into the side of the green boards, hanging the red calendar squares as you go. Step back every so often to eyeball your spacing and adjust as needed.

Finish

Display your giant Advent calendar in your front yard or backyard as an eye-catching way to celebrate the season.