DIY Ghirardelli Valentine Advent: Because Love Deserves a Daily Dose of Chocolate
If there’s one universal truth in a house full of kids, it’s this: the countdown to anything becomes its own event. Whether it’s birthdays, holidays, or the big heart‑covered day in February, someone is always asking how many sleeps are left. This DIY Ghirardelli Valentine Advent turns that endless question into a sweet little ritual—one that delivers a daily square of chocolate and a whole lot of handmade charm.
Think of it as a Valentine’s Day countdown with personality. It’s festive without being fussy, structured without being stiff, and reusable enough to become a family tradition. And because it’s made with felt, buttons, and a bit of simple stitching, it’s the perfect beginner‑friendly craft to pair with your favorite beginner sewing projects. If you’ve been looking for a Valentine’s Day activity for kids that feels both meaningful and manageable, this one checks every box.
Why You’ll Love This DIY Ghirardelli Valentine Advent
- A reusable alternative to disposable Valentine countdowns
- Simple sewing skills—great for beginners and kids
- Customizable for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or any special occasion
- Combines handmade charm with premium Ghirardelli chocolate
- A proven hit (and even a Utah State Fair first‑place winner!)
This project pairs beautifully with your Valentine’s Day activities for kids, especially if you’re building out a themed month of crafts and treats.
Supplies You’ll Need
- Felt
- Thread
- Sewing machine or hand‑sewing needle
- Buttons
- Scissors
- Paper
- Marking pen
- About ½ yard of fabric
- Ghirardelli chocolate squares
- Yarn or ribbon
How to Make a DIY Ghirardelli Valentine Advent
Create the Envelope Template
Measure and draw a 6″ x 2.5″ rectangle on paper. Cut it out to use as your pattern.
Mark the Fold Lines
From the top edge, measure down 1 5/16″ and fold. Round the top corners of this section. From that fold line, measure 2.25″, fold, and repeat once more.
Transfer and Cut the Felt
Trace the template onto felt and cut out one envelope per day in your countdown. Tip: Stack several layers of felt and staple the corners before cutting to save time.
Add the Button Closure
Center a button about ½” down from the straight edge of each envelope and sew it securely.
Assemble the Envelope
Fold along the marked lines. Stitch around the sides and bottom using a ⅛” seam allowance, or use a decorative blanket stitch for a handmade look.
Create the Buttonhole
Cut a small slit in the flap so it fits snugly over the button.
Add the Chocolate
Slip one Ghirardelli chocolate square into each felt envelope.
Prepare the Hanging Strips
On the wrong side of your fabric, measure and cut 1″ x 10″ strips.
Set Up the Yarn or Ribbon
Determine the length based on how many envelopes you’re using. Tie a slip knot at one end for hanging.
Assemble the Advent
Tie a fabric strip onto the yarn. Slide an envelope underneath so the yarn aligns with the top of the pocket. Continue alternating fabric strips and envelopes until all are attached.
Finish and Hang
Trim excess ribbon or yarn, tie the final slip knot, and hang your advent on a wall or mantel.
Expert Tips for Best Results
- Wool or wool‑blend felt holds its shape better than craft felt
- Choose flat buttons to keep envelopes from bulging
- Stick with individually wrapped chocolates to prevent staining
- Label envelopes with dates using embroidery or fabric paint
Great for linking to sewing tips for beginners, how to sew buttons, or fabric selection guides.
Variations & Creative Ideas
- Valentine’s Palette: Red, pink, and white felt with heart-shaped buttons
- Holiday Swap: Green felt for Christmas, pastels for Easter
- Non-Chocolate Fillers: Notes, jokes, tiny trinkets
- No-Sew Version: Use fabric glue or iron-on adhesive—perfect for classrooms
How to Use Your Valentine Advent
- Hang on a fireplace mantel, stair railing, or bedroom wall
- Start February 1st for a 14-day countdown
- Open one envelope each morning as part of your routine
- Pair with a family tradition like daily kindness notes or gratitude prompts
FAQs
How many envelopes do I need? If you start on February 1st, you’ll need 14 envelopes.
Can kids help? Absolutely. Older kids can trace, cut felt, and even sew buttons with supervision.
What size chocolates fit best? Standard Ghirardelli squares fit perfectly.
Can this be reused each year? Yes—just refill the chocolates and refresh the ribbon if needed.
Final Thoughts
This DIY Ghirardelli Valentine Advent proves that a little felt, a few buttons, and some really good chocolate can turn waiting into something wonderful. It’s simple, meaningful, and endlessly adaptable—exactly the kind of craft that becomes a tradition without even trying.
If you’re looking for a heartfelt way to count down to love, this one delivers—one chocolate square at a time.
This craft was originally published Jan 18, 2010, and updated January 10, 2026, with improved instructions, updates, and new photos.