Advent calendars for my grandchildren

Hello! I wanted to share a project I've been working on with you. My daughter called about a week ago and asked me about making an advent calendar for my grandson (her son). She had a picture of an advent calendar that she liked, but was no longer available. It looked pretty simple, mostly made with felt. I took on the challenge to have it made by Thanksgiving. I drew up plans to make it, changing many things from the picture that I didn't like.

I used Papertrey wool felt for all the felt items - the pockets, the numbers on the pockets, the wording on the top and bottom borders and the Santa and Ho Ho Ho in the corners. All these were designed and printed out in reverse using my Silhouette software. I traced the designs onto fusible web and ironed it onto the felt. Then I cut out each item, ironed it on, and then sewed around all edges to make sure it would not lift up. The pockets are mounted on a thick muslin type fabric (called utility fabric), and then I added Christmas fabric borders on the sides. I plan on making this project into a pattern and selling it on my etsy site.

I will make tags for each pocket so my daughters can put Christmas activities on them if they wish. Now to make one for my other set of grandchildren! Hope they enjoy them!