How To Create A Diy Advent Calendar Using Repurposed Gift Boxes

As the holiday season approaches, anticipation builds—not just for gifts, but for traditions that bring warmth and meaning. One of the most beloved is the advent calendar, a daily countdown from December 1st to Christmas Eve. While store-bought versions are widely available, creating your own using repurposed gift boxes transforms this tradition into something more personal, sustainable, and rewarding. This approach not only reduces waste but also allows for complete customization, turning leftover packaging into a cherished family heirloom.

Repurposing gift boxes into an advent calendar blends creativity with environmental responsibility. Instead of discarding festive packaging after the holidays, you give it new life as part of the next season’s celebration. With minimal supplies and a bit of imagination, you can craft a unique calendar that reflects your family’s tastes, values, and sense of fun.

Why Choose Repurposed Gift Boxes?

Every year, millions of gift boxes end up in landfills despite being made from recyclable or reusable materials. By reimagining these boxes as components of a handmade advent calendar, you contribute to a circular economy and reduce your household’s environmental footprint. Beyond sustainability, repurposed boxes offer unmatched versatility in size, shape, and design. From sleek black-and-gold rectangles to whimsical patterned keepsake boxes, each one adds character and visual interest to your final creation.

The tactile nature of physical boxes also enhances the experience. Unlike flat paper calendars, three-dimensional compartments invite interaction—opening each box becomes a small ritual, revealing surprises hidden within. Children especially delight in the act of lifting flaps or sliding open drawers, making the countdown feel more tangible and exciting.

Tip: Start collecting gift boxes throughout the year—especially during birthdays and holidays—to ensure a diverse selection when crafting your calendar.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

Creating a functional and attractive advent calendar from repurposed boxes doesn’t require expensive or specialized tools. Most items can be found around the house or purchased inexpensively at craft stores. The key is preparation and organization before assembly begins.

Core Materials:

• 24–25 small to medium-sized gift boxes (one for each day leading up to Christmas)
• Cardboard or foam board (for backing, if mounting on a wall)
• Twine, ribbon, or string (for hanging boxes)
• Glue gun or strong adhesive tape
• Number stickers or paint pen (to label days)
• Decorative elements: washi tape, fabric scraps, buttons, pinecones, etc.

Optional Additions:

• Mini clothespins (to attach tags or notes)
• Small envelopes or muslin bags (to insert inside boxes)
• LED fairy lights (for ambient decoration)
• Paper clips or binder rings (for modular designs)

If you plan to hang the calendar vertically or display it on a table, consider structural support. A large piece of corrugated cardboard covered in wrapping paper can serve as a clean backdrop. Alternatively, a wooden tray or shadow box frame provides stability and elegance.

“Upcycling isn’t just about saving materials—it’s about infusing them with new stories. A box that once held a birthday present can now contain a daily moment of joy.” — Lena Torres, Sustainable Craft Educator

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Calendar

Follow this structured process to transform your collection of gift boxes into a cohesive and joyful advent calendar.

1. Sort and Select Boxes: Gather all available boxes and sort by size, sturdiness, and aesthetic appeal. Choose 24 that are roughly uniform in depth but can vary in width and height for visual interest.
2. Clean and Repair: Remove old labels, tape residue, and dust. Reinforce weak corners with masking tape or glue. Flatten any dents gently with your fingers or a book press.
3. Decide on Layout: Lay out the boxes on a table in your desired arrangement—typically four rows of six. Leave space between them for decorations or access. Consider whether the calendar will be hung, freestanding, or placed on furniture.
4. Label Each Box: Use a paint pen, sticker numbers, or hand-cut paper tags to mark days 1 through 24. Position labels clearly on the front or top of each box.
5. Add Hangers or Mounts: Attach twine or ribbon to opposite sides of each box so they can be suspended from a horizontal line. For mounted versions, glue boxes directly onto a backing board.
6. Decorate Thoughtfully: Embellish each box individually or maintain a theme across all. Wrap some in fabric, tie bows around others, or add seasonal motifs like snowflakes or holly.
7. Fill with Surprises: Once assembled, begin filling each compartment. Keep contents hidden until the calendar is ready to use.
8. Final Assembly: If hanging, stretch two parallel lines of twine across a wall or frame and clip boxes into place using mini clothespins or knots. Ensure weight is evenly distributed.

Tip: Test the hanging setup with empty boxes first to adjust spacing and balance before adding weight.

Filling Ideas and Personalization Tips

The magic of a DIY advent calendar lies in what’s inside. Unlike commercial versions limited to chocolate or trinkets, your handmade version can include meaningful gestures, experiences, or custom treats.

Sweet Treats: Mini cookies, wrapped candies, hot cocoa packets, or homemade fudge fit easily into most boxes. For dietary needs, include allergen-free options or sugar-free alternatives.

Experiential Gifts: Write down activities on cards and place one in each box. Examples: “Family movie night,” “Bake gingerbread together,” or “Write a letter to Santa.” These foster connection without clutter.

Handmade Tokens: Include origami stars, pressed flowers, or tiny drawings. For older kids or adults, try handwritten affirmations or gratitude notes.

Charitable Acts: Encourage generosity by including tasks like “Donate toys,” “Call a grandparent,” or “Leave kind note for a neighbor.”

Personalization elevates the experience. Tailor themes to interests—book lovers might receive a page-a-day excerpt; pet owners could find daily animal facts or photo prompts. Rotate themes annually to keep the tradition fresh.

Age Group	Ideal Contents	Storage Tip
Young Children	Stickers, crayons, mini toys	Use shallow boxes to prevent choking hazards
Teens	Gift cards, playlist links, skincare samples	Include digital codes in sealed envelopes
Adults	Tea sachets, journal prompts, wine minis	Store liquids upright to avoid leaks
All Ages	Family activity ideas, jokes, riddles	Rotate contributors to involve everyone

Real Example: The Miller Family’s Zero-Waste Calendar

The Millers, a family of four in Portland, Oregon, began making their advent calendar from repurposed boxes after realizing how much packaging they discarded each December. In 2021, they committed to a zero-waste holiday season and turned last year’s birthday boxes into a tree-shaped display mounted on plywood.

Each box was wrapped in scrap fabric remnants and labeled with wooden number tiles painted by the children. Inside, they placed a mix of homemade coupons (“One free pancake breakfast”), eco-friendly products (bamboo toothbrushes), and shared experiences (“Build a blanket fort tonight”).

At the end of the season, they dismantled the calendar, saved reusable components, and composted cardboard inserts. The following year, they reused the numbered tiles and added new boxes collected over the months. Their project became a talking point at school and inspired two neighbors to start similar traditions.

“It’s not just about saving money,” says Sarah Miller. “It’s about teaching our kids that care and attention matter more than consumption.”

Common Challenges and How to Solve Them

Even well-planned projects encounter obstacles. Anticipating common issues ensures a smoother build and longer-lasting result.

• Inconsistent Box Sizes: Varying dimensions can make alignment difficult. Solution: Use filler material like crumpled tissue behind smaller boxes when mounting, or embrace asymmetry as part of the design.
• Weak Structures: Thin or damaged boxes may collapse. Reinforce with extra glue, internal cardboard braces, or line interiors with stiff paper.
• Hanging Instability: Heavy calendars may sag or detach. Use thick twine anchored into wall studs or opt for a freestanding shelf format instead.
• Early Spoilers: Curious hands might peek ahead. Address this by sealing boxes with removable tape or using opaque inserts that hide contents until opened.
• Storage Between Years: Disassembled boxes take up space. Flatten and store in labeled bins; keep decorations in separate pouches for easy retrieval.

Tip: Take a photo of your completed layout before disassembly to simplify re-creation next year.

FAQ

Can I use different types of boxes for each day?

Absolutely. Mixing shapes and sizes adds charm and uniqueness. Just ensure openings are accessible and labeling is clear to avoid confusion.

How do I prevent small items from falling out?

Line boxes with tissue paper, fabric, or small envelopes. For very tiny objects, seal boxes lightly with washi tape that can be peeled open cleanly.

Is this suitable for renters or small spaces?

Yes. Create a compact version using matchbox-sized containers strung on a garland, or build a tabletop tiered tray display that folds away easily.

Checklist: Build Your Repurposed Advent Calendar in 10 Steps

1. Collect 24–25 clean gift boxes over several months
2. Inspect for damage and repair weak spots
3. Choose a display method: wall-mounted, hanging, or freestanding
4. Select a color scheme or decorative theme
5. Label each box with its corresponding date (1–24)
6. Attach hanging strings or prepare mounting surface
7. Decorate each box using eco-friendly materials
8. Create or gather daily contents aligned with recipient’s interests
9. Assemble the full calendar in its designated location
10. Take a photo for future reference and enjoy the countdown

Conclusion

Creating a DIY advent calendar from repurposed gift boxes is more than a craft project—it’s a statement of intention. It reflects a choice to slow down, reuse thoughtfully, and celebrate meaningfully. Each box becomes a vessel not just for small gifts, but for memories, connection, and mindful living.

This holiday season, let your creativity shine without costing the earth. Gather those forgotten boxes from under the bed or closet shelf and turn them into something extraordinary. Whether you’re crafting for children, partners, or yourself, the effort you invest multiplies in joy each time a box opens.

💬 Start today—dig out one box and decorate it with tomorrow’s surprise. Share your creation online with #RepurposedAdvent to inspire others and grow a community of sustainable celebrators.