Looking for a unique, modern twist on classic holiday decor? This crochet pattern creates a bold, playful Christmas tree garland featuring textured trees with prominent, sculptural loops. Each tree is crafted in a single color— deep green, festive red, or vintage gold— and joined with a hanging loop at the top so you can string them along twine for a beautiful wall or mantel display. The trees feature a central trunk from which horizontal looped ‘branches’ extend, giving them a soft, whimsical shape. These ornaments are generously sized, with chunky, defined edges and a memorable silhouette.
This project isn’t just for garlands: each tree looks wonderful hung on the Christmas tree, added to gift wrapping, or even as a standalone ornament. The oversized loops and eye-catching texture make these trees stand out in any festive setting. Quick to whip up and highly customizable, this pattern is satisfying for both gift-giving and seasonal decor, offering a delightful, tactile experience from start to finish.
Project Overview
The trees are worked flat from top to bottom in rows, starting with a hanging loop. Stitches are used to create the center ‘trunk,’ while chain loops of increasing length are added as you descend, forming symmetrical branches on both sides. Each tree is made in a single color, with separate trees crocheted and then strung together on a length of twine for display. No joining of motifs is required—simply create as many trees as you wish and hang them as you like.
Skill Level
Advanced Beginner: This pattern uses foundation chains, single crochet, chain stitches, slip stitches, and some basic crochet shaping techniques. The only potentially tricky part is keeping an even tension on the looped branches. Some experience with following written patterns and counting stitches is recommended, but detailed step-by-step instructions are provided throughout.
Materials
- Yarn: Bulky weight cotton or cotton blend yarn (category #5 recommended) for firm, defined loops. Suggested fiber: 100% cotton for crispness.
- Amount per tree: Approx. 12-14 g per tree (roughly 10 m / 11 yds). For a garland of 6 trees, budget 60-90 g total in assorted colors (green, red, gold).
- Crochet hook: 6.0 mm (J-10) or size needed for a firm, defined fabric
- Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends)
- Scissors
- Stitch markers (optional, to mark each new row or branching point)
- Twine or cord (for hanging the trees as a garland)
- Decorative embellishments (optional): Faux greenery, beads, wooden stars for extra festive flair
Finished Size
Each tree measures approximately 16 cm tall (about 6.25 inches), including the hanging loop, and 9 cm wide (about 3.5 inches) at the broadest point.
To adjust the size, simply add or subtract branching rows, or use a thicker/thinner yarn and a correspondingly larger/smaller hook.
Gauge
Gauge is not critical—but for reference, 8 sc x 9 rows in main yarn = 5 cm x 5 cm (2 in x 2 in). A firm, sturdy gauge is recommended to keep the loops well-defined. Small gauge differences may slightly affect finished tree size.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- inc – increase (work 2 sc in same st)
- dec – decrease (sc2tog: single crochet 2 together)
- st – stitch
- RS – right side
- WS – wrong side
Important Pattern Notes
- Chains at the beginning of a row do not count as stitches unless specifically noted.
- This pattern is worked in rows, turning after each row unless directed otherwise.
- Keep loops on ‘branches’ even by pulling the chains a consistent length. A stitch marker or ruler can help ensure uniformity.
- To change colors for each tree, fasten off and join new yarn with a slip knot for each new ornament.
- The right side (RS) will show off the loops most attractively; the wrong side (WS) can face the wall when hung if desired.
Detailed Crochet Pattern
Part 1: Hanging Loop and Tree Trunk Start
- With chosen color, ch 24. (This forms the hanging loop. Adjust length for larger or smaller loops.)
- Bring the last ch around to meet the first ch to form a ring. Sl st into first ch to join into a loop.
- Ch 1, sc in same ch as join and in next 2 ch. (Makes a sturdy starting point for the trunk.)
[You now have 3 sc, joined to the top of the hanging loop.]
Part 2: Central Tree Trunk
- Ch 1, turn. Sc across (3 sc).
- Repeat previous row 7 more times for a total of 8 rows (trunk length).
[You may adjust trunk length by adding or subtracting rows. This is the ‘stem’ at the center of the tree.]
Part 3: Loopy Branch Rows
This section forms the iconic ‘branches’ out to either side, using pairs of long chain loops attached to the edges of the trunk. Each pair of loops on a row should be the same length for symmetry. The trunk is worked as single crochet, with chain loops added on both sides of each row. As you move down, each loop pair gets progressively longer to widen the tree.
- Ch 1, turn. Sc in first st, ch 5, sl st in side of row just made (creates first small branch loop on left), sc in next st, ch 5, sl st in same st (creates branch loop on right). Sc in last st. [3 sc, 2 ch-5 loops]
- Ch 1, turn. Sc in first st, ch 7, sl st in side of row just made (next row down on left); sc in next st, ch 7, sl st in same st (right); sc in last st. [3 sc, 2 ch-7 loops]
- Ch 1, turn. Sc in first st, ch 9, sl st to trunk (left), sc in next st, ch 9, sl st in same st (right), sc in last st. [3 sc, 2 ch-9 loops]
- Ch 1, turn. Sc in first st, ch 11, sl st to trunk (left), sc in next st, ch 11, sl st in same st (right), sc in last st. [3 sc, 2 ch-11 loops]
- Ch 1, turn. Sc in first st, ch 13, sl st to trunk (left), sc in next st, ch 13, sl st in same st (right), sc in last st. [3 sc, 2 ch-13 loops]
- Ch 1, turn. Sc in first st, ch 15, sl st to trunk (left), sc in next st, ch 15, sl st in same st (right), sc in last st. [3 sc, 2 ch-15 loops]
- Ch 1, turn. Sc in first st, ch 17, sl st to trunk (left), sc in next st, ch 17, sl st in same st (right), sc in last st. [3 sc, 2 ch-17 loops]
- Ch 1, turn. Sc in each st across (3 sc). This finishes the bottom of the tree and helps the shape sit flat.
Note: For a wider tree, add more branch rows, increasing the loop length by 2 each time (e.g., ch 19, ch 21, etc.). For a smaller tree, stop sooner and use shorter loops.
Part 4: Tree ‘Trunk Base’ (Optional)
- Ch 1, turn. Skip first st, sc in next st (center sc only), ch 5, sl st into same sc. Fasten off and weave in ends. (This creates a short base at the bottom, resembling a trunk. Optional for extra detail.)
Repeat for Additional Trees
Crochet as many trees as desired in alternating yarn colors. Complete all weaving in before assembly.
Assembly and Finishing
- Pull all tree shapes gently into final form, ensuring all loops are even. Use your fingers to stretch or adjust loops as needed.
- Steam block lightly if necessary, using a towel and iron held above the fabric—do not press the cotton directly. Allow to cool in shape.
- Weave in all yarn tails with a tapestry needle on the WS.
- Cut a length of natural twine or sturdy cotton string to the desired length for your garland. Trim ends and add knots if needed for security.
- Thread each tree’s hanging loop onto the twine. Slide them into position with enough space between each tree for a pleasing, balanced look.
- Add decorative touches: tie on mini sprigs of faux greenery, attach wooden stars, and thread beads or bells onto the twine as desired.
Customization Ideas
- Colors: Try classic Christmas shades, soft neutrals, or a rainbow for a playful look.
- Yarn weight: Go extra-chunky for supersized trees, or use DK or worsted weight for mini ornaments.
- Garland: Mix tree sizes, alternate colors, or add other shapes (stars, snowflakes) along the same string.
- Pillow appliqué: Stitch a single tree onto a pillow cover for a festive accent.
- Gift topper: Secure a single tree ornament to wrapped gifts instead of a bow.
- Individual ornament: Hang a single tree with a ribbon or hook on your Christmas tree.
- Wall hanging: Arrange trees vertically and hang from a wooden dowel as a minimalist wall piece.
- Coasters: Use a tighter gauge and stiffen the finished tree for a flat coaster.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Piece curling: If your tree curls, lightly block or steam the finished piece; add a single row of sc to the edges if needed.
- Uneven loops: Consistently measure your chain loops or use a ruler to keep them equal on both sides.
- Edge unevenness: Make sure to work into both loops of each row and avoid missing the turning chain; count sc each row.
- Motif size variation: Different yarn tension can affect tree size; try to use the same yarn type and tension for each tree in a set.
- Loose color changes: Always pull the new yarn snug and weave tails in firmly.
- Uneven tension: Try to relax and keep an even yarn feed, especially on the long branch loops.
Care Instructions
- Spot clean gently with lukewarm water and mild soap; lay flat to dry.
- If the garland becomes wrinkled or misshapen, reshape gently by hand or lightly steam block (no direct heat on cotton yarn).
- Store flat in a dry place when not in use; avoid crushing the loops.
Final Notes
Before stringing your garland, double check all trees for matching stitch counts and symmetrical loops. Adjust your tension if needed, and don’t be afraid to unravel and redo a branch row until you’re happy with the shape. Use the sample image as a handy visual guide: your trees should be bold, loopy, and evenly spaced for the best decorative impact. This pattern is a great chance to play with color and shape, so have fun and happy crocheting!
