Advent calendars come in many different forms and sizes. This year, give your countdown to Christmas a personal touch by making your own calendar, filled with an array of festive felt figures!

Start by learning how to make the basic calendar, then follow the simple step-by-step instructions inside to make your 24 tiny toys to peak out of its pockets! With just a few pieces of felt, stuffing, thread and ribbons, and only four basic stitches required, the toys take little time to make, are inexpensive and a great way to use up scraps of spare material. From holiday favourites like Santa and Rudolph to a scarfed squirrel and snuggly bear, there's a merry companion for all your little ones (and for young-at-heart adults too!).

Guidance on the essentials tools and materials you need are included at the beginning of the book, and templates are provided for all of the basic calendar pieces and toys, allowing you to dive straight into making your Yuletide-timeline in no time at all.

Proudly display your handiwork and start a new tradition in your home today, in the much-loved style of mini-crafter Sachiyo Ishii.