2016 DIY Advent Calendar with Scripture
We made a DIY Advent Calendar with Scripture Verses back in 2012; but it was time for a little update. Our Advent Calendar includes both ornaments and scripture -- an ornament to hang on the tree each day and a Bible Verse{s} to read as a family. This wasn't changing because it is a precious Christmas tradition; the packaging is just getting a revamp.

**Amazon Affiliate Links are included in this post.
I've shared my love of Sculpey Clay before {for example: Snowman Kit, Baby's 1st Christmas Ornament, and Mini-Chalkboard}, and this project is another great example.
DIY Advent Calendar : Supplies
Sculpey Clay
Rolling Pin
Cookie Cutter
Straws
Cricut {or similar}
Vinyl
Number Stickers {alternative to Cricut & Vinyl}
Canvas Bags
Free Printable
Circle Punch {approx 2 in diameter}
DIY Advent Calendar : Instructions
STEP #1: Roll out the Sculpey Clay and cut 24 tags with a cookie cutter. Then, use a straw to create the hole for hanging. You can actually dye this clay or buy it in various colors, but I love how it looks in a simple white.

STEP #2: While the tags are baking, start cutting out vinyl numbers 1-24. I used a Cricut and this black vinyl... however, you could buy number stickers if you don't have a Cricut or similar machine. Once the tags have finished baking and are cool, attach the numbers.

STEP #3: I bought canvas bags from Amazon and I'm very pleased with the weight of the fabric. Our original Advent Calendar was in bags with lighter weight {and therefore, more transparent} fabric. Thicker canvas bags keep the ornament a total surprise.

STEP #4: Each bag also has a Bible Verse to read each evening. If you'd like to read through these verses during the Christmas Season, get the Advent Calendar Free Printable.
Would you like to download the free printable? Click the button, below, to sign up for our newsletter and gain access to the freebie library. Once subscribed, you will receive an email with instructions to access the library.
If you have any problems signing up, please send an email to loragreen@craftivitydesigns.com, and I will sign you up manually.

Hanging an ornament on the tree and reading God's Word makes our Advent Calendar a central part of the Christmas Celebration. When I create our home, I want it to lend itself to special family experiences. Do you celebrate Christmas with an Advent Calendar?





I've made salt dough ornaments and my kids just finished some for this year. We are also working on our advent calendar because I think we needed to upgrade the one we made last year. It's simpler this time. I love the scripture verses on the little clay circles tied unto the bags. Such a neat idea!!
Are they pretty easy? I'd love to run them.
What a beautiful idea Lora! I love the white clay it reminds me of the salt dough art we would make as kids during the holiday season. Thanks so much for sharing!
Yes, it has a beautiful simplicity to it.
This is so creative. A great idea to make with my little one, he always likes to get involved in everything I do. I guess I can put a little candy or a car in those canvas bags to keep him entertained.
Yep! I've seen people place gifts in them, treats, or little games.
I love sculpey clay!! And those little tags are so cute! What a great way to prepare for Christmas 🙂
It is a great craft item!