Crochet Lace Bell Ornaments: Step-by-Step Pattern for Festive Holiday Decor

Introduction

Bring a touch of delicate charm to your holiday decorations with these elegant crochet lace bell ornaments. Featuring an openwork lace texture, gently flared bell shape, and finished with a satin ribbon bow and a shiny gold jingle bell, these ornaments strike the perfect balance between classic and cheerful. The bells come in festive colors such as red, blue, yellow, and natural cream, with a matching crocheted hanging loop for easy display. Each one is topped with a coordinating color ribbon bow, accented by a central pearl bead, and a tiny golden jingle bell that softly rings at the slightest touch.

These crochet bell ornaments are ideal for decorating your Christmas tree, holiday garlands, mantels, door handles, or even as unique gift toppers. With their lightweight and durable structure, you can make them in a rainbow of colors for themed events or holiday gifts for friends and family. The intricate lacework is not only visually stunning: it also allows for creative expression in both color and embellishment, making this an endlessly customizable project for crochet lovers.

Project Overview

The bells are worked in the round from the top down, beginning at the apex (bell handle) and expanding outward through several lace rounds to form the conical bell shape. The piece is constructed in one seamless section with occasional color changes, if desired. After the main bell is completed, the hanging loop is crocheted and secured, a satin ribbon bow is affixed to the top, and a gold jingle bell is sewn into the center bottom to finish. Embellishments such as pearl beads and ribbons are attached last for a neat, finished look.

Skill Level

Intermediate: This project requires comfort working in the round, basic lace stitches, increasing, and attaching embellishments. Advanced beginners who are ready for new techniques can confidently give this a try.

Materials

Crochet Thread: #10 mercerized cotton crochet thread in various colors (approx. 15g per bell).
Crochet Hook: 1.5 mm (US steel hook No. 8) or size needed to achieve gauge.
Ribbons: 1/4 inch (6 mm) satin ribbon in matching or contrasting colors for bows (about 18 cm / 7 inches per bow).
Beads/Pearls: 8 mm round faux pearl beads for bow centers (1 per bell, optional).
Jingle Bells: One 16 mm shiny metallic jingle bell for each ornament.
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and sewing components.
Scissors.
Stitch markers (helpful for marking rounds).
Starch or fabric stiffener (optional, for crisp shaping).

Finished Size

Each bell ornament measures approximately 7 cm (2.75 inches) tall, excluding the loop, with a base diameter of 6.5 cm (2.5 inches). The hanging loop adds about 6 cm (2.5 inches) in height. Size can be adjusted by changing hook size or thread weight, but this may alter the visual delicacy of the lace pattern.

Gauge

Approximately 9 dc and 5 rounds = 2.5 cm (1 inch) measured over the lace pattern, after light blocking. Gauge is not critical for this project but will affect the bell’s size and drape. Small differences are acceptable, but for a stiffer bell, work tightly.

Stitches and Abbreviations

ch: chain
sl st: slip stitch
sc: single crochet
dc: double crochet
tr: treble crochet
sp: space
sk: skip
MR: magic ring
st(s): stitch(es)
rep: repeat

Pattern Notes

Ch-3 at the start of dc rounds counts as the first dc unless otherwise noted.
Work the bell body in joined rounds: end each round with a sl st in the top of the starting ch-3.
Changing color: Always finish the last pull-through of the final dc of the round with the new color.
Right side faces outwards at all times. Mark RS with a removable marker if helpful.
The hanging loop is crocheted separately after completing the bell, then sewn or crocheted to the apex.
Stiffen bells as desired with fabric stiffener for a crisp shape.

Crochet Pattern Instructions

Bell Body

Start with the bell apex: Using chosen color, make a MR. Ch 3 (counts as first dc), 11 dc into ring. Close ring and join with sl st to top of ch-3. (12 dc)
Round 2: Ch 3, dc in same st. 2 dc in each st around. Join. (24 dc)
Round 3: Ch 3, dc in same st, *dc in next st, 2 dc in next st; rep from * around. Join. (36 dc)
Round 4 (Start lace pattern): Ch 5 (counts as dc + ch-2), sk 1 st, dc in next st, *ch 2, sk 1 st, dc in next st; rep from * around. Join with sl st to third ch of starting ch-5. (18 dc, 18 ch-2 sps)
Round 5: Sl st into next ch-2 sp, ch 3, dc in same sp, *ch 2, 2 dc in next ch-2 sp; rep from * around. Join. (36 dc, 18 ch-2 sps)
Round 6: Ch 5, sk next dc, dc in next dc, *ch 2, sk next dc, dc in next dc; rep from * around. Join. (18 dc, 18 ch-2 sps)
Round 7: Sl st into next ch-2 sp, ch 3, 2 dc in same sp, *ch 2, 3 dc in next ch-2 sp; rep from * around. Join. (54 dc, 18 ch-2 sps)
Round 8: Ch 5, sk next 2 dc, dc in next dc, *ch 2, sk next 2 dc, dc in next dc; rep from * around. Join. (18 dc, 18 ch-2 sps)
Round 9: Sl st into next ch-2 sp, ch 3, 3 dc in same sp, *ch 2, 4 dc in next ch-2 sp; rep from * around. Join. (72 dc, 18 ch-2 sps)
Round 10: Ch 1, sc in each st and in each ch-2 sp around. Join. (90 sc)

Edging

Round 11: Ch 1, *sc in next st, ch 2, sk next st; rep from * around. Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off and weave in ends. (45 sc, 45 ch-2 sps)

Hanging Loop

With matching or contrasting thread, join yarn at the apex of the bell. Ch 35 (or desired length for the loop), sl st to same spot to form a loop. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Bow and Pearl Bead

Form a bow from a 7 inch (18 cm) piece of satin ribbon. Secure center with a stitch or a dab of glue. Sew an 8 mm pearl bead to bow center.
Sew finished bow to the base of the loop at the bell apex using matching thread.

Attaching Jingle Bell

Thread the tapestry needle with a length of crochet thread. Pass thread through the top ring of the jingle bell and draw the thread through the very center of the bell (through MR magic ring). Secure with several passes and fasten off inside, weaving in the ends to disguise knots.

Assembly and Finishing

After crocheting the main bell, weave in all ends on the inside. Attach the hanging loop securely at the apex of the bell. Affix the satin ribbon bow, centered at the join of the loop and bell. Use invisible stitching for a neat finish, or hot glue if preferred (be cautious with glue and thread). To attach the jingle bell, thread it firmly through the center of the bell, ensuring it hangs freely and is visible. Once all embellishments are secured, block the bell by lightly wetting and shaping over a small rounded mold (like a small cup). Optional: use fabric stiffener or diluted white glue for extra crispness. Let dry fully before hanging.

Customization Ideas

Try a variety of thread colors for seasonal effects: pastels for spring, metallics for winter, or school/team colors for celebrations.
Experiment with different ribbon styles or add small felt holly leaves beneath the bow for added dimension.
Use metallic or iridescent thread for a sparkling effect.
Scale up the pattern with a heavier yarn and larger hook to make larger decorations, such as door hangers or centerpiece bells.
Swap the pearl bead for vintage buttons, miniature charms, or sparkly crystals.

Troubleshooting

Bells curling inwards or outwards: This often comes from tight or loose tension. Adjust hook size or consciously relax/tighten your crochet. Blocking and starching help set the shape.
Uneven lace or wavy bottom edge: Check your stitch placements, especially in lace rounds. Make sure to count carefully; missing or extra stitches can cause rippling.
Bells too large/small: This results from significant gauge differences. Try another hook size or use a thicker/thinner thread to adjust.
Loose color changes: Always change color on the final yarn over of the last stitch of the old color for smooth transitions.
Bows or beads falling off: Use multiple stitching points and double knots, weaving in threads securely, or opt for a strong fabric glue as added support.

Care Instructions

Hand wash gently in lukewarm water with mild soap if needed. Lay flat to dry, reshaping the bell while damp. If using fabric stiffener, avoid soaking as it may dissolve the crispness. Store decorations in a dry, cool space to preserve shape and color vibrancy.

Final Notes

Always double-check stitch counts at the end of each round, and adjust tension as necessary for an even, symmetrical bell. Use the sample photo as a visual guide for proportions and embellishment placement. Enjoy getting creative with colors, ribbons, and decorative finishes for a festive, handmade touch to your holidays!