Sew your own felt advent calendar : with 24 mini felt toys to make for Christmas

Advent calendars take pride of place in homes all over the world in the run up to Christmas.

This year, why not add a personal touch to your Christmas countdown by making your own felt calendar, filled with an array of festive felt figures to delight the whole family?

Felt is soft, tactile and very easy to use, and sewers of all abilities will enjoy creating this fabulous festive decoration.

Best-selling author Sachiyo Ishii starts by showing you how to make the basic calendar, and then provides easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions and templates for 24 tiny felt toys to place in the pockets.

These cute little Christmas-themed projects are quick to make using just a few pieces of felt, stuffing, thread and ribbons, and make perfect little gifts for children and adults alike. Easy to make and fun to use, the calendar can be stored away and brought out year after year to become a much-loved family favourite for many years to come.