Introduction
Nothing evokes the holiday spirit quite like handmade decorations, and this crochet Christmas tree ornament perfectly captures that festive charm. The ornament features a classic evergreen tree shape in a rich green tone, highlighted with round white bobble baubles and a delicate scalloped edge in contrast yarn. At the top, a tidy loop for hanging is adorned with a festive bow, making it ideal for decorating your tree, gifting to loved ones, or adding to gift wrapping. With its layered appearance and delightful textures, this ornament stands out as both eye-catching and expressive.
Not only is this project quick and satisfying, but it enables you to infuse your own personality into your holiday décor. The structure of this pattern makes it an engaging but manageable undertaking, perfect for crocheters who enjoy making decorative motifs. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your own Christmas tree or create unique, personalized presents, this crochet ornament offers hours of creative joy and results in a timeless keepsake.
Project Overview
This crochet Christmas tree ornament is made in a single piece, beginning at the top and working down in rows to create three triangular layers reminiscent of a classic fir tree. Along the way, bobble stitches are incorporated for the ‘bauble’ decorations, and edging is added to define each tier. The trunk is crocheted separately and sewn to the bottom. The ornament is finished with a hanging loop and an optional ribbon bow for a festive touch.
- Primarily constructed in rows, with increases forming the triangle shape
- Bobble stitches worked into place as you construct each tier
- Scalloped edging created with contrast yarn at the end
- Trunk made as a small rectangle and sewn to base
Skill Level
Advanced Beginner. This project uses basic shaping, simple increases, and bobble stitches. If you have mastered single, double, and slip stitches and are ready to learn bobbles and some assembly, this is a perfect next-step holiday make.
Materials
- Worsted weight (medium/4) yarn in green (main tree color): approx. 20g
- Worsted weight yarn in white or cream (bobble ‘baubles’ and edging): approx. 5g
- Worsted weight yarn in brown (tree trunk): approx. 2g
- Crochet hook: US size H/8 (5.0 mm) or size needed for gauge
- Tapestry/yarn needle (for sewing trunk and weaving in ends)
- Scissors
- Stitch markers (optional, for marking rows or edges)
- Ribbon for bow (optional, 1/4 in/6 mm wide and about 8 in/20 cm long)
Choose a yarn with good stitch definition for a crisp finish. Acrylic or cotton work equally well for ornaments meant to last.
Finished Size
The finished tree ornament measures approximately 13 cm (5 in) tall (excluding hanging loop) and about 10 cm (4 in) at its widest point. The hanging loop adds about another 4 cm (1.5 in) to the height. To adjust the size, use a lighter or heavier yarn weight and appropriate hook size for the desired finish. Add or subtract rows/tier increases for a smaller or larger tree, but keep bobble placements consistent with the shape for a balanced look.
Gauge
Approximate gauge: 14 double crochets and 8 rows = 4 in (10 cm) using main (green) yarn and H/8 (5.0 mm) hook. For an ornament, exact gauge isn’t crucial, but a consistent tension will produce a neater, more professional-looking finish. Small gauge differences will affect the overall size but not the structure.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- dc – double crochet
- bobble – bobble stitch (instructions below)
- inc – increase (2 sts in same st)
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- RS – right side
- FO – fasten off
Pattern Notes
- Chains at the start of a row do not count as a stitch unless stated otherwise.
- Turn at the end of every row unless specified.
- Height is constructed in three sections (tree tiers), increasing at edges.
- Bobble stitches are worked as described in the pattern and stand out on the RS.
- If working scalloped edging in a different color, join contrast yarn at start of edging instructions.
- Work into both loops unless otherwise noted.
- For neat color changes, finish last yarn over of the last stitch before color change with the new color.
- Using a stitch marker in the first or last st of each row can help keep triangle edges straight.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Top Tree Tier
- With green yarn, ch 3. Row 1 (RS): 2 dc in 3rd ch from hook. (2)
- Row 2: Ch 2, turn, 2 dc in first st, dc in next. (3)
- Row 3: Ch 2, turn, 2 dc in first st, dc in next st, 2 dc in last st. (5)
- Row 4: Ch 2, turn, 2 dc in first st, dc in each of next 3 sts, 2 dc in last st. (7)
Note: For the first bobble, continue below!
Add Bobble Baubles
- Row 5: Ch 2, turn, 2 dc in first st, dc in next, bobble in next st, dc in next, bobble in next st, dc in next, 2 dc in last st. (9)
Bobble Stitch: [Yarn over, insert hook in st, yarn over, pull up loop, yarn over, pull through 2 loops] 5 times in same st, yarn over, pull through all 6 loops on hook.
Middle Tree Tier
- Row 6: Ch 2, turn, 2 dc in first st, dc across to last st, 2 dc in last st. (11)
- Row 7: Repeat Row 6. (13)
- Row 8: Ch 2, turn, 2 dc in first st, dc in next st, bobble in next st, dc in each of next 2 sts, bobble in next, dc in next 2, bobble in next, dc in next, 2 dc in last st. (15)
Bottom Tree Tier
- Row 9: Ch 2, turn, 2 dc in first st, dc across to last st, 2 dc in last st. (17)
- Row 10: Repeat Row 9. (19)
- Row 11: Ch 2, turn, 2 dc in first st, dc in next st, bobble in next st, dc in each of next 2 sts, bobble in next, dc in each of next 3 sts, bobble in next, dc in each of next 3 sts, bobble in next, dc in next, 2 dc in last st. (21)
Edging and Hanging Loop
- Do not FO green yarn (unless you wish to break and switch colors for the edging). Join white or cream at the topmost point (last st of Row 1). Ch 12, sl st to same st to form loop. FO contrast yarn.
- Working with contrast yarn (white/cream), join at one corner of base, ch 1, sc evenly along each side of tree, working 2 sc at each corner; for each tier’s horizontal edge, work sc, skip 1 st, 3 hdc in next st, skip 1, sc for the scallop effect. Work up both sides and along the base but not the trunk space. Join with sl st to first sc, FO, weave in ends.
Tree Trunk
- With brown yarn, ch 5. Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across (4).
- Rows 2-4: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across. (4) FO, leave a long tail for sewing.
Finishing Touches
- With white or cream yarn, make a small bow and attach securely to front beneath the loop at the top using a yarn needle. Alternatively, sew on a pre-made ribbon bow with sewing thread or hot glue for extra polish.
Assembly and Finishing
- With the tapestry needle, attach trunk to the center of the bottom edge of the tree with whip stitch or your preferred seaming technique. Secure firmly and weave in ends.
- Weave in all other ends; gently tug ornament into triangle shape, being careful not to overstretch the scalloped edge.
- If needed, block the ornament (pinning it to shape and steaming gently) for crisp edges and even tiers.
- Sew or glue a ribbon bow at the base of the hanging loop for a decorative flourish.
- Carefully cut any stray ends and check all joins are secure so the ornament holds up to use and handling.
Customization Ideas
- Try alternating the bobble bauble yarn color for a multi-colored tree.
- Use metallic yarn for the edging or add beads for holiday sparkle.
- Enlarge the pattern to use as wall-hanging décor, or shrink it (use thinner yarn and a smaller hook) for gift tags and kid crafts.
- Stitch numbers on each bauble for an Advent calendar, or embroider names for personalized ornaments.
Troubleshooting
- Tree curls or edges wave: Too many or too few stitches along edges—count stitches and avoid overly tight tension on edges and scallops.
- Piece too large/small: Adjust hook size and check your tension against gauge to hit the desired finished dimensions.
- Color changes look messy: Always change color on the last stitch of the previous yarn; tighten joins and weave in ends securely.
- Uneven bobbles: Make sure to keep bobble stitch tension even; practice a few isolated bobbles if they look loose or sunken.
- Tree lacks shape: Block the finished ornament by pinning to a foam board and lightly steaming before assembly for crisp layers.
Care Instructions
- Recommended care for acrylic or cotton yarns: spot clean as needed with cool water and mild soap; dry flat.
- If needed, handwash gently and air dry; avoid wringing or twisting to maintain shape.
- Store flat and away from direct sunlight when not in use to prevent fading or distortion.
Final Notes
Count stitches at the end of every row to keep your tree proportions correct. Adjust tension and blocking as necessary for the sharpest result, and use the photo as a guide for bauble and edging placement. Enjoy making your own crocheted holiday keepsake!
