Christmas is the most magical time of the year – especially for little ones (and big kids!). Make your countdown to Christmas even more magical with an advent calendar the whole family can enjoy – and help make. Just follow these simple tips from Bostik:

Project checklist:

  • Cream and black felt
  • Pre-cut fabric stars
  • Contrasting ribbons
  • Black thread
  • Miniature wooden pegs
  • Sew Simple from Bostik
  • Sticki Dots from Bostik
  • Fabric scissors, sewing needle and marker pen

Watford Observer: Advent stockings 2

Cut out 50 identical stockings from the cream felt using fabric scissors. Next, cut out 25 black felt circles to mount onto the front of the stockings and 25 strips of the gingham fabric for decoration.

Watford Observer: Advent stockings 3

Next, use a black pen to mark out faux stitch marks and then on the inside of each stocking, apply a thin line of Sew Simple fabric glue along the edges, leaving the top edge free. Press two stockings together at a time to create 25 pouches.

Watford Observer: Advent stockings 4

Write numbers one through to 25 onto the gold stars to signify each day of the month. Then using Sticki Dots from Bostik, attach a black circle onto the front of each stocking and mount a gold star on top.

Watford Observer: Advent stockings 5

Next, using a sewing needle, thread through the black thread and knot to create a loop. Fill each stocking with a chocolate or sweet and, for the finishing touch, attach gingham bows onto each stocking with a wooden peg. Thread all 25 stockings onto a long length of ribbon and hang across the fire place, ready to be filled. Then, let the countdown to Christmas begin!

Sew Simple from Bostik is a solvent-free fabric glue that forms a permanent and invisible bond in just one minute. It can be machine-washed and ironed. Sew Simple costs £3.99 and is available from Wilkinsons and WH Smiths.

Sticki Dots from Bostik are individually formed multipurpose adhesive glue dots and are incredibly easy to use. Just peel the backing off the dots, attach and press firmly into place. Sticki Dots are available in removable and extra strength packs. They are clear and when they dry, they do not yellow ensuring a flawless, professional finish every time. You can find Sticki Dots at Tesco, WH Smiths and various stationers at £1.19 for a pack of 64 dots.

For further information, please call Bostik on 01785 272625 or log on to www.bostik.co.uk