Visiting elf idea
Scarf Cape Send-Off
The elf wears a scarf as a travel cape on a closed book by the door, next to a goodbye note.
- Goodbye
- Entry
- Nice
- No mess
- Household items
- 5 minutes
- Toddler-safe
- Pet-safe
- Christmas Eve
What you need
These are household pieces. Borrow from the junk drawer first.
- scarf
Search Amazon for scarf(paid link)
- hardcover book
Search Amazon for hardcover book(paid link)
- paper
Search Amazon for paper(paid link)
- pen
Search Amazon for pen(paid link)
Paid link — we may earn a commission if you buy.
Affiliate links use tag tinkerdiversi-20 and go to Amazon search results, not a specific product.
How to set it up
- 1
Drape a scarf over the elf's shoulders like a cape. Do not knot it tight.
- 2
Stand the elf on a closed book so the cape does not pool on the floor.
- 3
Lean a note on the book: Cape on. Heading north. The scarf stays.
- 4
Put the book against the wall, out of the doorway.
If this night works, try next

Scarf-Roll Travel Bundle
The elf packs a rolled-scarf travel bundle by the door with a see-you-next-year sticky note.
Goodbye · Entry · Nice · Household items · Toddler-safe
Mitten Wave by the Stairs
The elf waves from inside a mitten on a stair post or chair back, with a one-line goodbye.
Goodbye · Entry · Nice · Household items · Toddler-safe
Outgoing Mail Flag
The elf raises a paper north flag on the outgoing mail, as if the last letter is ready.
Goodbye · Entry · Nice · Household items · Toddler-safe
Unofficial. Not affiliated with The Elf on the Shelf® / CCA and B, LLC / The Lumistella Company.