Papier Just Launched a Mini Version of Its Viral Advent Calendar (It’s 51% Cheaper)

If you know me IRL, you know I’m obsessed with stationery — I journal almost daily, love sending snail mail to my friends, and collect stickers everywhere I go. I also love tiny treats, which is why Papier’s viral 24 Day Advent Calendar is like catnip to me. It’s also highly coveted by stationery fans everywhere (including AT editors!), and sadly, it sold out before I could get my hands on it last year. So when I learned that the online stationery brand was releasing a new (and more affordable) 12 Day Advent Calendar, I knew I needed to test it for myself. 

After unboxing all of its contents, I can say it’s everything I hoped it would be. Here’s why I’d snag one while they’re still stock. 

Papier’s limited-edition 12 Day Advent Calendar is basically a more accessible version of the brand’s beloved 24 Day Advent Calendar. Priced at $95, it’s less than half the price of its $195 predecessor (which is no small savings!), and because it’s only 12 days instead of 24, you can start it mid-way through December and still get the joy of unboxing a final gift once the holiday arrives. And make no mistake, it may be half the size, but it does not skimp on cuteness or its contents. The calendar is designed like an illustrated cottage, complete with a lift-up roof and front doors that open up to reveal three drawers and an “attic” filled with stationery goodies. 

Inside there’s a mix of full- and pocket-sized products (check out the Papier site for the full list), including but not limited to: a trio of fineliners, two mini notebooks, a bookmark, planner stickers, sticky tabs, a set of thank you cards, a mini gratitude journal, and a stylish little pencil pouch with a matching charm (which, IMO, could easily go on a handbag, too). It’s a solid mix of items that I personally think would delight a stationery lover or someone who’s new to the hobby. 

My favorite thing about the Papier calendar is that it contains things I’d actually use. I’ll never turn my nose at another notebook or pen, for example (I personally keep both in every bag I own), so I know I’ll get use out of the ones in the calendar. Further, the planner stickers and sticky tabs will come in handy as I fill out my planner into the new year. And the faux wax seal stickers are going to be the perfect finishing touch when I mail out cards to family and friends. Every advent calendar is bound to have a few misses, but I honestly think everything inside this advent calendar is useful. And because it’s Papier, it’s all gorgeous. 

While other advent calendars are usually filled with items that feel specific to the season, either in packaging or overall design, I appreciate that the Papier goods have a more timeless look. The pencil pouch, for example, has a stylish patchwork-inspired design that would bring a little flair to any workspace. And the thank you cards are generic enough to use anytime throughout the year, but they still feel festive. 

If I didn’t already have the 12 Day Advent Calendar in my possession, rest assured that it would be at the top of my wish list. The under-$100 price point makes it a great holiday gift for any stationery fanatic or newbie, and the adorable cottagecore packaging eliminates the need for gift wrap. I’d even go so far as to say that it could live permanently on your desk as stylish stationery storage. Talk about getting your money’s worth. 

Buy: Papier 12 Day Advent Calendar, $95