The Christmas countdown officially begins on Tuesday but have you got this year's advent calendar at the ready?

If you want to shun the chocolate calendars filling the supermarkets or fancy being creative and making your own, below are a few ideas to inspire you.

If you have a go at making any of these, we'd love to see your efforts. Email your pictures to us at digital@bournemouthecho.co.uk 

1. Wooden advent calendar 

Bournemouth Echo:

god jul by wood & wool stool on Flickr 

This one is a bit tricky but the end result is worth it. It's an advent calendar and Christmas decoration all in one. All you need is some pieces of wood, nails, a hammer and a few of your favourite trinkets. You could even drape over some fairy lights to give it some extra sparkle. 

2. Toilet Paper Roll Calendar

daventcalendar.jpg

daventcalendar.jpg

Who knew you could make something so pretty from toilet rolls? 

3. Envelope Advent Calendar

DSC_0026

fewthingsfrommylife.blogspot.co.uk

All you need it a piece of card and 24 small envelopes which you can fill with chocolates or little gifts. 

4. Garland calendar 

advent.

inthelittleredhouse.blogspot.co.uk 

Just mini envelopers, string, tiny clothes pegs and a bit of imagination required. 

5. Doggy advent calendar 

Dachshund Advent Calendar

 

Erica Wines on Flickr 

Who says your pooch can't look forward to Christmas, too?

You can find other advent ideas on our Pinterest board