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A Halloween countdown calendar adds a small daily activity to October and can become a seasonal tradition for the whole family. This felt version has 31 pockets for treats or activity notes and is assembled mainly with glue, so sewing is optional. Make it with the measurements below, then personalize the pockets to suit your household.
How to Make a Halloween Countdown Calendar
The finished banner measures 18 inches wide by 32 inches long, and each pocket measures 3 by 3 inches. The project took about 4–5 hours over two days, including time for embellishments to dry. Skipping the decorative embroidery can shorten the crafting time.
Before you begin, decide what you want to place in the pockets. A mix of activities and small candies is one option. Use your family calendar to save movie nights for weekends or choose activities that fit your usual routine. Stickers and coloring pages can also be used, and you can adapt the contents to different ages and interests.
Supplies
- A dowel rod
- A large piece of felt for the banner; about half a yard was used for this project
- Colored felt for 31 pockets
- Pocket decorations, such as buttons, embroidery, permanent-ink stamps, a little paint, and wooden stars
- Glue and string for assembling and hanging the calendar
Prepare and Decorate the Pockets
- Cut the banner shape from the large piece of felt, then cut out 31 pocket pieces. Keep the pocket size consistent at 3 by 3 inches so they fit neatly on the banner.
- Arrange the pockets on the banner before attaching them. Decorate each one while it is still separate. Buttons can be sewn on, while wooden stars can be glued in place. Allow glue or paint to dry fully before assembling the calendar.
- When the decorations are dry, apply glue along three sides of each pocket and press it onto the banner. Leave the top edge open so you can add a treat or activity note. Sewing the pockets in place is another option if preferred.
Add the Hanging Loop
Fold the top edge of the banner over the dowel rod and glue it to form a sleeve. Once the glue has set, tie a length of string to each end of the rod and hang the calendar from a suitable wall hook. Check that the hanging point is secure before filling the pockets.
Optional details, such as Halloween garland or a pumpkin button, can give the finished banner a more festive look. Keep small decorations and treats away from young children who may put them in their mouths.
A garland around the banner can add a finishing touch. Prepare the calendar before October begins, then fill the pockets with a mix of activities and small surprises that work for your family. — Elsie
Enjoy Your Halloween Countdown Calendar
This Halloween countdown calendar is a flexible felt craft: decorate it with simple materials, choose glue or sewing for the pockets, and tailor the daily contents to your schedule. Following the 18-by-32-inch banner dimensions and 31-pocket layout provides a straightforward starting point, while personal touches make the finished decoration your own.
