History of the Advent Calendar

Advent is the season of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of Christmas. Why not buy, or even better, create your very own Advent calendar this season. The tradition of opening up little numbered doors to reveal an image, bible verse or prize has been a tradition for everyone since the 19th century. German Protestants started the tradition by marking chalk on doors or lit candles to count the days leading up to Christmas. Different versions included the Advent clock and advent candle. Gerhard Lang a Swabian parishioner invented today’s version of the Advent calendar, with doors hiding a prize or message. Gerhard Lang was a painter in 1908. The Advent calendar was made with 24 little painted pictures affixed to a piece of cardboard. A few years later, Gerhard Lang invented the idea of the 24 little doors and sold at least 30 different designs in his shop. Today’s version includes paper doors that reveal a surprise each day beginning on December 1st and ending on December 24th. With so many different versions of the Advent calendar, it’s hard to choose the right one. This is why Sweet Pea has created a few unique Advent calendars using machine embroidery so everyone can create their own. This popular craft is perfect for families especially for young children and grandchildren. The perfect gift or decoration for your own home this Christmas is the Advent train quilt 4x4 5x5 6x6 in the hoop machine embroidery design. This quilt can be kept for years to come as the perfect family ritual. Family members can fill the pockets in the train with Christmas surprises for everyone. The pockets could be filled with chocolates, treats, bible verses, pictures or little toys, something for everyone. The quilt could also be used throughout the year, as the quilt is unique and fun, perfect for children. This gorgeous Christmas Advent or count down quilt has twenty seven different blocks. There are 24 carriage blocks, one engine block and two tree blocks. The carriage blocks all create a pocket for you to put a little gift in. The design comes in the following sizes: 4x4, 5x5 and 6x6. All three sizes are included in your purchase. Please note on the 4x4 blocks the pockets are very small but still large enough to hold a small gift. The blocks are sewn in the hoop and then joined and backed with your sewing machine. Another perfect design for this Christmas is the pretty Christmas Advent calendar bunting. All 24 flags sewn in the 5x7 hoop have a little pocket where you can hide a gift. The flags are completely finished in the hoop with only the top raw seam. Then you just add the bias binding/string and you are finished. You can be creative and completely change the look of this Christmas design by changing the fabric. Both the Advent train quilt and the Christmas bunting are perfect as festive decorations, family Advent calendars, craft market stalls or gifts. Click on the images above to be taken to the design on our website or http://swpea.com/search?q=advent