DIY Project

Paper · Christmas · Seniors

Envelope advent calendar

24 little numbered envelopes on a string, each holding a note, an activity or a treat for the grandkids to open.

Envelope advent calendar
LevelIntermediate
AgesWith grandkids ages 4 and up
Time1 hour 30 minutes
Cost$6 to $15

What you'll need

Materials

Tick them off as you find them.

Tools

How to make it

  1. Step 1: Number the envelopes
    1

    Number the envelopes

    Write or stick a big number from 1 to 24 on each envelope.

  2. Step 2: Write the notes
    2

    Write the notes

    Write one small thing per slip: a joke, a memory, a phone call, a cookie day, a story about you as a kid.

  3. Step 3: Fill the envelopes
    3

    Fill the envelopes

    Tuck a slip into each one. Add a sticker or a coin if you like.

  4. Step 4: Seal them
    4

    Seal them

    Tuck the flaps in instead of licking them. They'll open again and again.

  5. Step 5: Hang the line
    5

    Hang the line

    Tie twine across a wall or window. Clip the envelopes on in order.

Edie's tip

If you live apart, mail the calendar early. Then call each evening to open that day's envelope together.

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