Introduction
Add a whimsical, handmade touch to your festive décor with a spiral Christmas tree crochet ornament. This project features a gentle twist upward, creating an eye-catching spiral silhouette. The design is worked in calming blue, edged prominently in metallic gold, and topped with a star for that classic holiday sparkle. A jingle bell at the base adds movement and musical cheer. This ornament is a crafty centerpiece, great as a gift or a treasured keepsake for your own tree. The crisp lines, playful structure, and shimmery accents make it stand out whether you use it as a classic tree ornament or string several for a festive garland. The clever spiral construction is engaging and fun—perfect for anyone wanting to explore both technique and creativity.
Project Overview
This spiral tree ornament is crocheted in one flowing piece from the bottom up, forming a tall, stacked spiral. The project starts with a wide base, increasing across the rounds to create large ruffled rings. Gradually, the spiral tapers to a point at the top where a separate star motif is attached. After crocheting the tree and star, the edges of each spiral layer are highlighted with gold yarn. The bell is then sewn at the base. This construction uses simple stitches in clever ways, combining increases and strategic slip stitching to create seamless curves and dimension.
Skill Level
Advanced Beginner. This pattern requires knowledge of basic crochet stitches (chain, single crochet, double crochet, slip stitch), increasing, and working in the round. The most challenging part is shaping the spiral and attaching the star; clear instructions are given, making it accessible for anyone comfortable with the basics.
Materials
- DK weight yarn (light worsted, category 3) in two colors:
- Main color: light or pastel blue (approx. 18-20g or 45-50 yards)
- Accent: metallic gold yarn or embroidery thread (approx. 5g or 12-14 yards)
- Small amount of gold or yellow DK yarn for the star (approx. 3g or 7 yards)
- 2.75mm (C) crochet hook (or size needed for a neat, dense fabric)
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle
- Stitch marker
- Small gold jingle bell (approx. 1.5cm or 5/8 inch wide)
- Loop of yarn or ribbon for hanging
Finished Size
The finished spiral tree ornament measures approximately 13cm (5 inches) tall, including the bell and star, and about 8cm (3 inches) across the widest spiral. Adjust the height or spread by making more or fewer rounds, increasing the diameter, or using a larger or smaller hook. If you wish for a larger ornament, use heavier yarn and a proportionally larger hook.
Gauge
Gauge is not crucial, but for best results: 20 single crochet sts and 22 rows = 10cm (4 inches) with DK weight yarn and a 2.75mm hook. Small differences will change the final size. Keeping stitches snug is best to hold the ornament’s shape and definition.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- dc – double crochet
- inc – increase (work 2 sts in same st)
- MR – magic ring
Pattern Notes
This ornament is worked in continuous rounds except where noted. Use a stitch marker at the beginning of each round. Chains do not count as stitches unless noted. To keep the spiral clean and defined, work stitches with consistent tension. Change to gold yarn for edging with a slip stitch, using a tapestry needle to weave ends neatly. The star is made separately in joined rounds and sewn or crocheted to the tree’s top at the end. Blocking is optional but can help define the spiral if desired. The wrong side of the spiral faces inward, and the right side forms the visible surface.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Main Spiral Tree
- With blue yarn, make a magic ring (MR), ch 1, work 6 sc into the ring. Pull tight. (6)
- 2 sc in each st around (inc in every st). (12)
- [1 sc, inc] around. (18)
- [2 sc, inc] around. (24)
- [3 sc, inc] around. (30)
- Continue increasing by 6 sts each round ([next number of sc, inc] around) until you have approximately 60 sts or as wide as you wish for the base.
- To begin spiraling: *Work sc in the back loop only (BLO) in each st around for the next 2 rounds. This begins the spiral ridge.* After 2 rounds in BLO, place a stitch marker at the start of a round. Now, sc in every st but, at the same time, begin skipping 1 stitch at the end of each round (for a gentle spiral pull) for the next 8-12 rounds, depending on how tall you want your tree.
- As you progress up the spiral, after every 2-3 rounds, decrease (sc2tog in two sts) once to narrow the spiral gradually. Work until your spiral is approximately 9cm (3.5 inches) tall and tapers visibly to a tip. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing (if desired).
Gold Edging
- With gold yarn or thread and a smaller hook, join at the edge of the spiral (the last completed round). Work sl st or reverse single crochet (crab stitch) along the outer edge of each spiral layer, creating a decorative border. Carry the yarn along the spiral; for best effect, edge each visible round.
- Fasten off, weave in ends with tapestry needle.
Star Topper
- With gold/yellow yarn, make a MR. Ch 1, work 5 sc in ring. Sl st to first sc. (5)
- Ch 2, (sc, hdc) in same st, ch 2, sl st in next st; repeat around to form 5 points, ending with sl st in base of first point. (You should have a small, five-pointed star.)
- Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing. Make two stars if you would like a double-sided topper.
Finishing and Bell
- Thread a length of blue yarn through the top point of the spiral tree, pull through the center of the star, and knot to secure. If using two stars, sandwich tree top between and sew to secure.
- Sew or tie the jingle bell firmly to the tree base using matching yarn.
- Add a hanging loop to the tree top with blue or gold yarn (about 10cm/4in), knot, and weave in ends.
Assembly and Finishing
After all parts are crocheted, shape the spiral by pulling gently to set the layers apart and encourage the spiral to stand out. Use your fingers to arrange the ruffles evenly, making sure the tree stands nicely on its own or hangs evenly. Block the spiral lightly with steam if needed to give definition, being careful not to damage metallic threads. Secure and hide all yarn ends neatly with a tapestry needle. Attach the star so it faces front when the tree is hung. Finally, make sure the bell is securely attached and makes a gentle sound when moved.
Customization Ideas
Switch colorways for different festive looks—try deep green for a traditional tree, snowy white for a wintry theme, or variegated yarn for a modern twist. Use sparkly or sequined thread for edging. Swap the bell for a pom pom or bead. Make miniature versions for garlands or giant ones for room décor. Personalize with mini pompoms, beads, or embroidery.
Troubleshooting
If the spiral is curling too tightly, gently stretch it into shape and block with steam. If edges are wavy, check for consistent increases and regular tension. For uneven spiral width, make sure decreases and skipped stitches are spaced evenly. Loose color changes can be tightened by pulling tails neatly when weaving in. If your tree feels too floppy, try a smaller hook or thicker yarn. If too stiff, use a larger hook or lighter yarn.
Care Instructions
This ornament is best spot-cleaned with a damp cloth. To refresh the shape after storage, gently reshape and air dry. Avoid machine washing or harsh agitation, especially with metallic edging.
Final Notes
Always check your stitch count after each round, and don’t hesitate to adjust tension for a neat finish. Use the photo as a visual guide for spiral shaping and color placement. Enjoy experimenting—each tree will be unique and full of holiday charm!
