43 advent calendars to stitch yourself, nearly all by Permin of Copenhagen, with three from Eva Rosenstand. Almost every design is counted cross stitch on aida or linen with plastic rings included, one for each day, so a sweet or small gift hangs from every date, and most are sized to hang from a bellpull fitting, which is sold separately.
You stitch the calendar itself - a festive scene worked in counted cross stitch on aida or linen - and it becomes the family's advent calendar from then on. Most designs here are from Permin of Copenhagen, who have made advent calendars their speciality, on aida from 8 to 14 count or on linen stitched over two threads, with a couple of chunky designs on 4 count canvas worked in acrylic yarn.
The kits include plastic rings worked in along the design, one for each day, so you hang a small present, chocolate or note from every ring and refill the calendar each December. One thing to check before you order: on some designs the miniature stockings pictured hanging from the rings are not included in the kit - each product page lists exactly what is in the box.
The practical bit of advent-calendar honesty: it has to be finished by the first of December to do its job, and these are proper stitching projects rather than weekend makes. Order in late summer or early autumn and the deadline stays comfortable - and once it is done, it is done for every Christmas after.
