For committed home stylists, shelf faffery is a trend to savour and Advent offers ample opportunity to indulge your every whim. In this homemade Advent calendar, the surprises are contained in 24 beautifully wrapped cardboard boxes, arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree on a shelf or mantelpiece. A variety of wrapping paper, colourful ribbons, pine branches and cut poinsettias in flower tubes attached to the bows of some presents, create a decorative effect. The top of the tree is formed by a bright red poinsettia in a test tube filled with water, hung on the wall. To ensure the poinsettias stay fresher for longer, immediately after cutting, first dip the cut ends in hot water (around