How to Sew a 24-Pocket Advent Calendar | Easy Wall Hanging Tutorial for Beginners, by Stitch and Create Studio on YouTube. 5 min 10 s.
- Video length
- 5 min 10 s
- Time to do it
- 3 hours
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Print the pattern at 100% scale, not fit to page. Measure the printed test square with a ruler and reprint if it is off, or every piece will come out the wrong size.
Cut the main panel to 30.3 x 16.5 in (77 x 42 cm) and cut 24 pocket pieces about 4.5 x 3.7 in (11.5 x 9.5 cm), adding the seam allowance marked on the pattern.
Press the top edge of each pocket piece to the wrong side, fold it over again and stitch a straight hem. This is the edge that stays open at the top.
Press the side and bottom edges of each pocket under by the seam allowance so the raw edges are hidden and the pocket holds its shape.
Lay the main panel flat and mark the pocket grid with the air-erasable marker, six rows of four pockets, spacing them evenly with a ruler.
Pin each pocket onto its marked spot and stitch down the two sides and the bottom with a straight seam, backstitching at the top corners for strength.
Fold the top of the main panel over to make a rod pocket, press it and stitch along the lower edge, leaving both ends open for the rod.
Slide the wooden rod through the channel, tie the cord to both ends and hang the calendar on a hook or nail.
Add the numbers 1 to 24 to the pockets with stickers or vinyl, or write them on with a fabric marker.
Tips and common mistakes
Sew slowly over the pocket corners and lower the needle by hand so the layers do not shift.
Keep the iron away from your fingers and unplug it when you finish pressing, since this project needs a lot of pressing.
Use clips instead of pins on thick canvas, as pins bend and leave marks in heavy fabric.
Check the marker lines are fully erased before you hang the calendar, as some marks return with heat.
Questions
Do I need a sewing machine?
No. Every seam is straight, so you can sew it by hand with a backstitch. A machine is simply faster for the 24 pockets.
How much fabric do I need?
About 1 m (39.4 in) of fabric that is 150 cm (59 in) wide. Medium or heavy cotton canvas, linen, twill or duck cloth holds the pockets best.
Can I use it for something other than Christmas?
Yes. Leave the numbers off and it works as a wall organizer for mail, keys, kids room toys or craft supplies.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
