I’m sure you’re all familiar with the Holiday tradition of advent calendars. They’re a fun way to count down to Christmas (or any other you like to celebrate) no matter how old you are. Every year there’s tons of pre-made options but those are usually a little pricy and a huge waste of packing. Today we’ve rounded up some great DIY advent calendar options that you can reuse every year and fill with whatever treats you want! Take a look at these:

This cardboard house style is a favourite for this year! Not only are they adorable but they can hold multiple treats if you have a big family. Plus you can enlist the kids to help decorate them for a little extra family fun.

Headintoclouds has a helpful YouTube tutorial on creating these houses over here.

If you’d prefer written instructions, Eytozee has a great tutorial here.

No time to decorate or maybe you just aren’t as artistic as you’d like? No problem! Check out this free printable that you just have to cut out and glue here.

Looking for something a little more colourful? Mavelo has these pastel printable version right here.

Lastly, if you need instructions in French, check out Zu-blog’s winter wonderland themed houses here.

Here’s another option we’re in love with this year! How cute are these little woodland animals?

Rose Caramelle has a great tutorial in French using boxes and cardboard to make her animals here.

Another great option that’s been floating around Pinterest is cute animals made using paper bags. You can use a clothespin to hang them on some twine and voila! A super easy advent calendar anyone can make.

We couldn’t not mention these amazing paper houses! Super simple AND you can match theme to whatever your decor theme might be. Find the instructions here at Leelah Loves.

For another option, check out this simple advent calendar design at Monika Hibbs. Simple and clean!

Or if you have some envelopes lying around, why not go with this vintage inspired advent calendar at Homes to Love.

Lastly, why not just use a mix of whatever you have at home to make your very own eclectic advent calendar like here on La Petit Cuisine?

Not sure what to put in your advent calendar? Here are some simple filler ideas for you to try:

• chocolates (a classic)

• lip gloss

• small toys like legos

• movie tickets

• mini bubbles

• holiday themed stickers

• printed Christmas jokes

• hair ties / scunchies

• kinder eggs

• socks or gloves (or both)

• a new toothbrush

• mini candy canes

Are the cogs turning? Do you have a great idea yet? Tag us in your pictures on Instagram if you make something! We’re always happy to see your creations. If you’re looking for even more inspiration, check out our Pinterest board.

Happy DIYing!