Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Materials and Tools Needed
- Step 1: Making the Box Lids
- Step 2: Crafting the Box Bottoms
- Step 3: Creating the Round Boxes
- Step 4: Completing the Boxes
- Step 5: Constructing the Frame
- Step 6: Enjoy Your Advent Calendar Tree
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
An Advent calendar is a cherished holiday tradition that helps build excitement leading up to Christmas. Why not add a creative twist by making your own reusable Advent calendar tree? This DIY project will allow you to craft a wooden calendar complete with 24 small containers, each ready to be filled with little treats, surprises, or special messages. The tree design makes it not only functional but a beautiful holiday decoration.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make your own Advent Calendar Tree, providing detailed instructions on everything from box creation to assembling the tree frame. This project requires some woodworking tools, but the results will last for years to come, making it a great addition to your holiday traditions.
Materials and Tools Needed
Tools:
- Table saw
- Band saw
- Lathe
- Laser cutter (optional)
- 3D printer (optional)
- Sanding tools
Materials:
- Hardwood (maple, walnut, oak, cherry)
- 6mm thick wood (for lids and bottoms)
- 2×4 lumber (for plugs)
- 1.5-inch Forstner bit
- Wood glue
- Screws (for assembling the base)
- Wax finish (optional)
Optional:
- Laser engraving tool (for numbers and designs)
- 3D printed jigs for positioning
Step 1: Making the Box Lids
Start by crafting the lids for your Advent boxes. You’ll need to laser cut a 39.5 mm diameter disk from 6mm thick wood (such as walnut) for the inner plug of each lid. This disk needs to fit snugly into the box.
Next, laser-cut a larger 50mm disk from maple or another wood type for the outer part of the lid. These pieces will be glued together.
For perfect alignment, you can 3D print a simple jig to help center the smaller disk onto the larger one. After gluing, sand off any laser-burn marks to ensure a clean finish. Don’t forget to engrave the numbers 1 to 24 on the lids, as this will be essential for your calendar!
Step 2: Crafting the Box Bottoms
For the bottom of each box, cut a 50mm diameter disk from 6mm thick cherry or another hardwood. Make sure the thickness matches the lids to maintain consistency in design.
You can also engrave a number on the bottom to match with the lid. Consider engraving a festive design or holiday graphics on the outside of the box for extra charm.
Step 3: Creating the Round Boxes
To create the round boxes, start by cutting plugs from a 2×4 using a 2-inch hole saw. These plugs should be approximately 1-1/8 inches tall and will be used for turning on the lathe.
Next, glue up square blanks (60mm) for the boxes and trim the corners at a 45-degree angle to make them easier to round off. Use wood glue to attach the plugs to the blanks, securing them on the lathe for turning.
Turn the blanks into round boxes on the lathe, making sure the outside diameter measures around 47-48 mm. Use your 3D printed centering ring to check the fit. After shaping, clean up the inside of the boxes, leaving enough room for the lid to fit snugly. Finally, trim off the bottom of each box and sand it smooth.
Step 4: Completing the Boxes
To assemble the boxes, glue the bottom disk to the round box using the centering jig to ensure proper alignment. Make sure to match the numbers on the lid and the bottom for consistency.
The lid and bottom should protrude slightly from the edge of the box. Use the lathe to trim them flush with the sides of the box, creating a smooth, seamless look. After sanding and finishing, your boxes will be ready to go!
Step 5: Constructing the Frame
The frame of the Advent calendar tree is crafted from walnut boards, typically 60mm wide. Follow the measurements provided in the drawing (included in the downloadable PDF) for precise cuts. The angles of the tree are either 30 degrees or 60 degrees, so careful attention to detail is crucial.
For assembly, create spacer blocks and use triangles for alignment to help with the complex clamping angles. Once the frame is assembled, add trim strips on the front and back to hold the boxes in place. The back strips should be taller to prevent the boxes from falling out, while the front strips should be shorter to allow easy removal.
Finally, attach a cherry base to the frame for stability.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Advent Calendar Tree
Now comes the fun part: filling the boxes with your chosen surprises! From small treats to handwritten notes with clues about where to find larger gifts, you can customize the calendar with treasures that bring joy to everyone in the family.
Place the boxes in the frame, loading them from the top of each slot. Start on December 1st, removing one box each day until Christmas.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of wood for the boxes and frame?
A: Absolutely! Using different types of wood for each part of the Advent calendar tree adds variety and a beautiful contrast. Just ensure the boxes fit well within the frame.
Q: What if the treats don’t fit in the boxes?
A: If a treat doesn’t fit, simply place a note inside the box with instructions on where the gift can be found around the house.
Q: Do I need to use a lathe for this project?
A: While the lathe makes the process easier and more precise, it is possible to complete the project using other woodworking techniques, such as hand tools or a jigsaw.
Conclusion
Crafting your own reusable Advent Calendar Tree is a rewarding holiday project that brings both creativity and functionality to your home. By following the detailed steps outlined above, you can create a unique and beautiful calendar that will be cherished for years to come. Whether you’re using it to count down the days until Christmas or just as a festive decoration, this project is sure to add extra holiday cheer.