How to Create a Fun Holiday Countdown with Mini Tins and Pinchies

Quick Answer

Yes, you can create a delightful holiday countdown using Crazy Aaron’s Mini Tins and Pinchies. Simply gather your putty, assign each day a tin, and add fun activities or notes to build anticipation.

The holiday season is all about anticipation, and what better way to build excitement than with a daily dose of squishy fun? Using Crazy Aaron’s Mini Tins and Pinchies, you can craft a unique advent calendar that brings a new surprise each day. These pocket-sized putties are perfect for little hands and big imaginations.

Whether you're counting down to Christmas or just adding a little joy to December, this DIY project is easy, affordable, and endlessly customizable. Here's how to make your own putty advent calendar that kids (and kids at heart) will look forward to every morning.

What You'll Need

To start, gather 12 or 24 Crazy Aaron’s Mini Tins—each one is a tiny 2-ounce tin that’s perfect for a single day’s surprise. You can also mix in Pinchies, which are even smaller and great for filling stockings or adding bonus treats. Choose a mix of festive scents, colors, and textures to keep each day exciting.

You’ll also need something to hold your countdown. A small display box with compartments, a hanging pocket chart, or even a simple cardboard box with numbered paper cups all work well. The key is to keep the tins visible and accessible so the daily reveal feels special.

• Pick a container with enough slots for 12 or 24 days.
• Use a mix of Mini Tins and Pinchies for variety.
• Add small labels or numbers to each tin for a polished look.

Choosing Your Putty Selection

The magic of a putty advent calendar is in the variety. Think about the holidays: you might include a wintery Snowman Mini, a festive Candy Cane Lane Mini that changes color with warmth, or a Reindeer Games Mini that glows in the dark. These themed putties make each day feel like a mini celebration.

If you're crafty, you can even use the putties to create tiny scenes. For example, Snowman Mini comes with all the pieces you need to build a snowman, while Zombie Party Mini adds a playful, non-holiday twist that kids will love. Mixing in Pinchies (smaller putty blobs) is a great way to add extra surprises or to use for games.

• Choose 12 or 24 different tins for a full countdown.
• Include a mix of scented, glow-in-the-dark, and color-changing options.
• Let kids help pick their favorites to increase excitement.

Setting Up Your Countdown

Once you have your putties, it’s time to assemble your calendar. Start by numbering your tins from 1 to 24 (or 1 to 12 for a shorter countdown). Place them in your chosen container, making sure the numbers are visible. You can arrange them in a grid, a zigzag, or even a tree shape.

For an extra special touch, pair each putty with a small note or activity. For example, on the day you open the Candy Cane Lane Mini, you could include a note that says “Bake cookies tonight!” This turns a simple toy into a full holiday tradition.

• Use adhesive numbers or a marker to label each tin.
• Add a daily activity card to extend the fun beyond the putty.
• Involve the whole family in creating the calendar—it’s part of the fun!

Fun Ways to Use Your Daily Putty

Each putty surprise can be a springboard for a tiny holiday activity. For instance, on the day you open the Reindeer Games Mini, have a family game night with reindeer-themed games. On a day with the Snowman Mini, build a paper snowman or write a winter poem. The putty becomes a tangible reminder of the day’s special moment.

Pinchies are perfect for quick fidget breaks or for hiding in surprising spots like inside a stocking or under a pillow. You can also use them to create mini putty sculptures or to practice letters and shapes with younger kids.

• Let the putty inspire a daily craft or game.
• Use Pinchies as bonus surprises hidden around the house.
• Rotate the activities based on your family’s mood or schedule.

Step-by-Step Countdown Creation

1. Choose your putties: Select 12 or 24 Mini Tins and/or Pinchies. Mix themes and textures for variety. Checkpoint: Make sure each putty is individually packaged and ready to gift.
2. Pick your container: Use a box, hanging organizer, or numbered cups. Ensure there's a spot for each putty. Common mistake: A container that's too deep makes the reveal less exciting.
3. Number the days: Attach numbers 1–24 (or 1–12) to each tin or slot. Use stickers or a marker. Checkpoint: Keep the numbers large and clear for younger kids.
4. Arrange your calendar: Place the putties in your container in a logical order—maybe a zigzag or a tree shape. Common mistake: Placing heavier tins on top of Pinchies can squish them flat.
5. Add daily activities: Write a simple activity on a card for each putty. For example, 'Make a snowman' for the Snowman Mini. This turns the putty into a full holiday experience beyond the toy itself.
6. Reveal and enjoy: Each day, let the child pick the next putty and read the activity. Let them play and explore. Leave time for messy, creative play—putty is meant to be squished and stretched!

Product Highlights

• Snowman | MINI: This mini tin of putty packs a punch with all the pieces you need to build a snowman. A perfect all-in-one activity for a winter countdown day—kids can build and rebuild their snowman again and again.
• Candy Cane Lane | MINI: This festive, shimmery red putty transforms to snowy white with just the warmth of your hands! The color-change feature adds an interactive surprise that keeps kids engaged and excited to see the transformation.
• Reindeer Games | MINI: Turn off the lights and watch their noses glow bright red! A glow-in-the-dark feature makes this a magical evenings-only treat that can double as a nightlight or pre-bedtime calm-down.
• Fresh Grass | MINI: Features unique glitter that looks just like real grass. A great non-holiday, seasonal alternative that can brighten up a winter day with a touch of spring green.

Creating a putty advent calendar with Crazy Aaron’s Mini Tins and Pinchies is a simple, affordable way to make the countdown to the holidays extra special. It’s a project the whole family can enjoy, and the daily surprises are sure to become a cherished tradition.