The countdown to Christmas has already started, and what’s the best way to follow it? That’s it: an Advent Calendar. According to Wikipedia, this originally German tradition started during the first years of 19th century. Since then, Advent calendars have evolved into cardboard boxes with 24 small compartments, usually with some chocolates or candy inside. But if you really want a modern Advent calendar, then you should create it in digital format. Here are some tips on how to create your own Advent Calendar.
1. First of all, you need a Christmas-themed image. You can use one from the Internet but beware of copyright laws! We recommend using free stock photo sites such as Sxc.hu. Even better, take a picture of your own Christmas tree at home.
2. Open up the image in a graphic editor and write the 24 numbers (from December 1st to the 24th) on it. You can use any editor, from Paint to Adobe Photoshop.
3. Now your image is ready. Download an image mapper (we’re using CoffeeCup Image Mapper here) and start working on your calendar. Using the image mapper, create a linking area around each number in the calendar image. If you haven’t worked with an image mapper before, don’t worry: they’re easy to use. Simply draw an area over each number and create a link to set the webpage this area refers to. Check the program’s documentation if you really don’t get it.
Some ideas to where your calendar numbers may link: Christmas-themed websites, a Christmas screensaver, a pack of Christmas wallpapers, some MP3 files with Christmas carols, some information about Christmas celebrations around the world… or even your own Amazon wishlist. Anything goes!
Once you’re done with your map, the best option is to put it online and send the link to your friends and family. If you don’t have web storage available, simply save it as an HTML file and share it by email.
