If you’re planning to get creative this holiday season, a DIY wooden advent calendar is such a fun project — and after trying a few styles, I’ve found one feature that makes a big difference: the drawers!
I highly prefer these pull-out drawers compared to the ones with a tiny semicircle cutout at the top. The simple handle design is so much easier to grip, especially when you (or kids!) are excited to open them each day. No more fumbling to get a drawer out without tipping the whole thing over — these slide right out and back in smoothly.
One thing I learned from other buyers is that, on some wooden calendars, not every drawer fits perfectly in every slot — so it’s smart to keep track of where each one came from when you first unpack it. I made sure not to scatter them all at once. This way, you won’t run into drawers that stick or feel too tight.
Decorating mine was honestly the highlight of my holiday prep! I experimented with different paints and little decorations. I even tried adding ribbon — not sure I’d recommend that for everyone (it can be tricky to glue neatly), but I’m happy with how it turned out for mine. If you’re decorating yours, you could try stencils, stickers, or tiny festive decals for a clean look instead.
Another thing I appreciate is how roomy the drawers are — there’s plenty of space to hide candies, tiny toys, sweet notes, or clues for bigger surprises. If I ever buy another DIY wooden advent calendar, I’ll definitely look for this same drawer shape and depth again. It makes the countdown feel extra special when you can tuck in more than just a tiny chocolate!
Tips for Decorating Your DIY Advent Calendar
If you’re inspired to customize your own:
✔️ Test-fit the drawers first and keep them in order while decorating.
✔️ Lightly sand edges if needed before painting for a smooth finish.
✔️ Try paint pens or acrylic paint for bright colors.
✔️ Use clear sealant if you want to protect your design for reuse next year.
✔️ Add little numbers or stickers for each day — or hand-paint them for a personal touch!
Final Thoughts
A wooden advent calendar isn’t just a decoration — it’s a fun project and a beautiful tradition that brings joy every day leading up to Christmas. Choosing the right style, especially drawers that are easy to handle and spacious inside, really makes a difference.
Have you decorated your own advent calendar before? I’d love to hear your ideas and decorating tips!