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A DIY scratch-off advent calendar is a festive way to count down to the holidays with a small surprise each day. This version combines a paper snowflake tree with scratchable circles and wrapped gifts. The circles can reveal numbers or shapes that correspond to presents, activities, treats, or other surprises.
Supplies for a DIY Scratch-Off Advent Calendar
Gather the materials before starting so the circles can dry while you prepare the tree and gifts:
- Paper snowflakes
- Cardstock
- Dish soap
- Metallic paint and a paintbrush
- Circular punch
- Shape or number stamps and an ink pad
- Small boxes and wrapping paper
- Craft glue
For a smoother process, choose a work surface that can be protected from paint and glue. Keep the stamped circles and gifts organized by number or shape as you work.
Make the Scratch-Off Circles
Use the circular punch to cut 25 circles from cardstock. Stamp each circle with a number or shape. Make a simple list of the symbols you use and how many times each one appears; this will help you match each circle to the correct gift later.
Prepare the scratchable paint
Mix one part dish soap with two parts metallic paint. Brush the mixture over the stamped side of each cardstock circle, covering the design. Apply three to four coats, allowing the paint to dry between coats. Multiple layers help conceal the stamped symbol until it is time to scratch it off.
Set the circles aside to dry completely before gluing them down. This helps prevent smudging and makes the finished calendar easier to use.
Build the Snowflake Tree
Arrange the paper snowflakes on a wall or another display surface in the shape of a tree. Once you are happy with the layout, use craft glue to tack the snowflakes in place. Glue one dried scratch-off circle to the center of each snowflake.
Before attaching everything permanently, check that the 25 snowflakes and circles are spaced comfortably and can be reached for the daily reveal.
Wrap and Match the Gifts
Wrap the small boxes and place the matching number or shape on the bottom of each one. Refer to your list to make sure every scratch-off circle corresponds to a gift. You can fill the boxes with activities, treats, money, gifts, or a mix of surprises. Choose contents that fit the box and are appropriate for the people using the calendar.
How to Use the Advent Calendar
Each day, scratch off one circle and find the wrapped present marked with the matching number or shape. The calendar can be adapted for children or adults, and the contents do not need to be physical gifts: a note with an activity or a holiday treat can work too. Add fairy lights around the display for a soft, festive accent, keeping lights safely away from paper and other flammable materials.
This DIY scratch-off advent calendar brings together a simple craft project and a daily holiday surprise. Preparing the symbols and gifts in advance makes the countdown easier to manage and helps each reveal feel special.
— Katie
