7 Sleeps Advent Calendar

7 Sleeps Advent Calendar by Phoenixknits

Project Overview

The 7 Sleeps Advent Calendar is a beginner-friendly knitted or crocheted decoration project designed by Phoenixknits. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating a seven-day advent calendar featuring knitted or crocheted toys that can be displayed in small pockets. The design is versatile, allowing crafters to either complete all handmade elements or fill pockets with sweets as an alternative.

What Is Being Made

This advent calendar consists of small knitted or crocheted decorative toys and a backing structure with pockets to hold each day's surprise. The project creates a festive decoration suitable for the holiday season, with individual toy elements that can be filled with treats or displayed as standalone ornaments.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The pattern uses fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginners. Standard knitting abbreviations are employed throughout the instructions, with the designer noting that stitch abbreviation methods may vary between designers. Crafters are advised to carefully review the stitch abbreviations section before beginning. The pattern includes basic knit stitches and shaping techniques necessary to construct small three-dimensional toy forms.

Crochet Option

For those who prefer crochet, the pattern provides alternative instructions using a 6mm/US J10 crochet hook. This dual-craft approach makes the project accessible to both knitters and crocheters, with the crochet version offering a similar finished appearance to the knitted version.

Materials Required

Yarn and Fiber:

• 100g cream or white Aran weight yarn (US Worsted/8 wpi) for the backing
• Less than 10g red DK weight yarn (US 8ply/11 wpi) for edging
• Odd scraps of yarn in white, black, orange, dark green, honey brown, dark brown, and flesh or pale pink for toy details
• Scrap of metallic silver and gold thread (optional)
• Fibrefill for stuffing toys

Tools and Notions:

• One pair of knitting needles size 4.5mm/UK 7/US 7
• Size 6mm/US J10 crochet hook (for crochet version)
• Square of white felt
• Wooden dowel or natural twig
• 1 plastic toy eye measuring 15mm
• Small bell or trimmings (optional)
• Cream (for reindeer horns)
• Clear multipurpose glue

Skill Level

Rated as a beginner project, the 7 Sleeps Advent Calendar is designed to be accessible to knitters and crocheters new to the craft. The small scale of individual toys and straightforward construction make this an ideal project for developing fundamental skills while creating a functional, decorative piece.

Design Details

The calendar features themed toy designs, including reindeer elements crafted with cream-colored yarn for horns and a 15mm plastic eye for facial features. The variety of yarn colors allows for creative toy designs with contrasting details. Optional embellishments such as metallic threads, bells, and additional trimmings can personalize each toy and enhance the festive appearance of the finished calendar.