Description
If you like to make Advent special, then my beaded Advent Calendar is the perfect project for you!
It comprises 24 little beaded boxes, each numbered with a date. The boxes are big enough to hold a candy or chocolate, or perhaps some beads or thread. So, you get a little treat to open each day.
Plus, I included Advent candles that you can light with a little beaded flame. You can store the candle flames in the boxes.
Materials for the Beaded Advent Calendar
You need:
- Size 10 delicas
- Superduos
- Size 11 delicas
I do stock these materials. Plus, I am happy to put together a ‘beads only’ kit for you to go with the pattern instructions. So, if you would like this, then please email me.
Techniques for the beaded Advent Calendar
The boxes and candles for the beaded Advent calendar are all made using circular and tubular Peyote stitch. The pattern includes a technique reminder. However, if this technique is completely new for you, I also have a free tutorial that you can download here.
I used basic Square Stitch to make the little labels for each beaded box. If you are not familiar with this technique, I also have a free tutorial for that. Plus, you can find out more about Square Stitch in this blog.
Experience
The pattern instructions are very comprehensive. So, I think this project could be attempted by anyone.
It took me about 60 hours to complete the entire beaded Advent calendar. I did it by making a box a day, which I actually found very therapeutic.
So, I’m going to send this out with a health warning too… This project can be addictive! I was really sad when I actually completed mine!
Colouring
The beaded Advent calendar is perfect for colour experiments. Plus, you can use up some bead odds and ends. I have included some tips about colouring in the pattern instructions.
If you look carefully at the images, you can see I also added a little pattern to some boxes. Plus, I discovered that Superduo Duets make a fabulous colour option.
So, whilst the choice is down to you, I have included lots of ideas to help you out.
Make it your own!
As with the colouring, you have some design options too. If the idea of 24 boxes is a little daunting, then why not try making 12?… Perfect for the Twelve Days of Christmas!
You can also change the number of Candles. I know there are a lot of different traditions when it comes to Advent candles. So I’ve talked about some of those in the pattern too. This will give you a starting point for your design.
If you don’t want to join the boxes together, that’s no problem. The pattern shows you how to keep them all separate too!
So, I hope this will allow you to create a beautiful ornament to bring out every year. Maybe even a family heirloom to be handed down for generations to come…
