Simple Red and Green Spiral Christmas Tree Ornament Pattern

A pair of slim hanging spiral ornaments made from a narrow crochet strip that curls into a tree-like helix. One version is green with a red center stripe and white edging; the other reverses the colors. Pearl-style beads at the top and bottom give the finished ornaments a polished look.

Finished size: approximately 28 to 35 cm long and 7 to 10 cm wide, depending on yarn, hook and blocking.

What you’ll need

sport or DK yarn

2.5 to 3.5 mm hook

two large pearl-style beads per ornament

tapestry needle

optional floral wire or clear nylon thread

Suggested colors

green

red

white

Abbreviations

US terms: ch = chain, sl st = slip stitch, sc = single crochet, hdc = half double crochet, dc = double crochet, tr = treble crochet, MR = magic ring, st = stitch, inc = increase, dec = decrease.

Construction overview

Crochet a tapered strip with a contrasting center stripe.

Add a white edging along both sides.

Induce a spiral by increasing along one edge or by shaping during blocking.

Run a vertical support thread through the center to stabilize the helix.

Finish with beads and a hanging loop.

Tapered strip

Begin with a narrow chain. Work hdc rows while increasing at regular intervals so one long edge becomes slightly fuller than the other. Change between red and green to create a central contrast stripe.

White border

Join white yarn and work one round of sc around the strip. For a decorative chain-like edge, finish with slip stitches or a small picot every 2 to 3 stitches.

Spiral shaping

While the piece is damp, twist it evenly into a helix. If the yarn does not hold the shape, run a strong thread or thin craft wire down the center and tack each turn to it.

Top and bottom finish

Thread one large bead above the spiral and another below it. Add a 12 to 18 cm hanging loop at the top and secure the bottom bead with a knot or tiny crocheted stopper.

Assembly and shaping tips

Lay all pieces out before sewing. Use matching yarn and catch only the back loops where possible so joins stay discreet. For spirals, shape the piece while slightly damp and allow it to dry in position. If the ornament will hang vertically, add a strong central cord or hidden thread so the crochet does not stretch over time. Keep beads and metal charms lightweight and sew them on securely.

Blocking

Lightly damp-block flat pieces before final assembly. For three-dimensional spirals, avoid flattening them. Instead, shape each turn with your fingers and let the ornament dry while hanging or supported around a smooth cylinder. Do not apply high heat to acrylic yarn.

Colour variations

Make both ornaments in matching colors for a coordinated set.

Use gold edging instead of white for a warmer finish.

Add miniature bells at the lower bead.

Questions I get asked

Can I make it longer or shorter? Yes. Adjust the starting chain or the length of the ribbon/spiral before assembly.

Can I use acrylic yarn? Yes. Acrylic is light and practical for hanging decorations. Cotton gives crisper stitch definition.

Do I need wire? No. Most versions can be stabilized with a strong central yarn or nylon thread. Wire is optional for very sculptural shaping.

Can I make a child-safe version? Yes. Replace beads, bells and safety eyes with embroidered details and crocheted bobbles.

Pattern note

This is a visual recreation guide based on the reference image, not a transcription of an original designer pattern. Exact stitch counts may need adjustment for your yarn, tension and preferred finished size. Make a small test section first, especially for the spiral shaping.

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