Spiral Crochet Christmas Tree Ornament with Star Topper and Bell

If you’re looking for a unique and charming handmade ornament to brighten your winter holidays, this spiral crochet Christmas tree ornament is an excellent choice. Inspired by classic holiday motifs, this design features a clever curled spiral—alternating rich burgundy red and soft beige bands, adorned with pearl beads and tiny snowflake appliqués. At the top sits a beautifully textured crocheted star with a sturdy loop for hanging, and at the bottom, a metallic bell provides a gentle festive jingle. This piece is perfect for hanging on Christmas trees, decorating walls, doors, or even as a standalone table centerpiece. Its compact yet eye-catching design, dynamic color contrast, and tactile embellishments make it a conversation starter, as well as a joyful project for crafters who love textured, three-dimensional crochet.

Not only does this ornament add a delightful homemade touch wherever it’s hung, but it can also become a treasured keepsake, making it ideal for gifting or starting a new family tradition. The mix of simple stitches and careful embellishment strikes a balance between approachable and impressive, making it deeply satisfying to create and display.

Project Overview

This festive ornament is made in several parts:

The main spiral tree is crocheted as two separate, flat strips in contrasting colors, then joined along the edge to create a bicolored ribbon. The strip is shaped and sewn into a signature spiral forming a three-dimensional tree silhouette.
The star topper is crocheted in rounds and attached to the top of the spiral ornament, with a loop for hanging.
Beaded accents and small snowflake appliqués are stitched onto the spiral for festive texture.
A metallic bell is affixed securely at the base to complete the look.

Skill Level

Skill Level: Advanced Beginner to Intermediate. This pattern employs basic stitches such as single crochet, as well as some increases and decreases, working in rows, crocheting two strips together, and creating appliqués. You’ll also join and assemble multiple pieces, working with small decorative elements. No advanced shaping or complex stitch patterns are used, but accurate counting and even tension are important for a neat finish.

Materials

Worsted weight (category 4) cotton yarn in two main colors:
- Color A (deep burgundy red): approx. 30 g
- Color B (soft beige): approx. 30 g
- Color C (light tan or gold, for star): approx. 5 g
- Color D (white, for snowflakes, optional): approx. 3 g
Crochet hook size US G/6 (4.0 mm) (adjust as needed for gauge)
Tapestry needle for sewing and weaving in ends
Small pearl beads (6–8 mm), 6–8 pieces
Small snowflake buttons or crochet appliqués, 3–5 pieces
Small metallic bell (approx. 2.5 cm / 1″ diameter)
Strong sewing thread and needle for attaching the bell
Stitch markers (useful for counting and tracking rows)
Scissors

Finished Size

Approximate height (from top of loop to base of bell): 28–32 cm (11–12.5 inches)
Approximate width (widest part of spiral): 6 cm (2.5 inches)

To adjust the size, lengthen or shorten the spiral strip. Add or remove rows in multiples evenly for a taller or shorter tree effect.

Gauge

Approximate gauge: 18 stitches x 20 rows = 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 cm) in single crochet with chosen hook and yarn.

Exact gauge is not critical, but significant variation may affect finished size and assembly.

Stitches and Abbreviations

ch – chain
sl st – slip stitch
sc – single crochet
dc – double crochet
hdc – half double crochet
inc – increase (2 sc in same stitch)
dec – decrease (single crochet two stitches together)
st(s) – stitch(es)
RS – right side
WS – wrong side

Important Pattern Notes

Chains at the start of rows do not count as stitches unless specified.
When making the spiral, keep tension even for a neat curl.
Rounds begin with a chain only when specified; otherwise, work directly into the next stitch.
Weave in ends as you go for a tidy finish, as assembling small parts is easier with fewer loose ends.
Change colors by completing the last yarn-over of the previous stitch with the new color, then continue.
Use stitch markers at the start/end of rows or to mark placement of snowflakes and beads.
If substituting yarn or hook, ensure the strips are stiff and hold the spiral shape without flopping.

Detailed Crochet Pattern

Part 1: Crochet the Spiral Strips

The spiral tree is constructed from two long strips, one in burgundy (Color A) and one in beige (Color B), that are later joined along one edge.

Strip A (Burgundy)

Ch 70. (If you want a longer spiral, increase chain in multiples of 10.)
Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. (69 sts) Turn.
Row 2: Ch 1, sc in each st across. (69 sts) Turn.
Rows 3–5: Repeat Row 2 for a total of 5 rows. Fasten off and set aside.

Note: You can make the strip a little wider if you prefer, by adding extra rows.

Strip B (Beige)

Repeat the same instructions as for Strip A, but using Color B.

Joining the Strips

With right sides facing out, place the two strips edge to edge, aligning starting tails, so that they are stacked and matching row ends are together.
Using Color B and working through both edges, insert hook through the outer loops of each strip’s first stitch, yarn over, and work a slip stitch to join.
Continue working a slip stitch (or single crochet for a decorative join) through both strips along the entire length, making sure to keep edges straight and not too tight.
Fasten off, leaving long tails for sewing.

Part 2: Forming the Spiral Tree

Lay the joined ribbon flat. Begin at the top (where you want your star and hanging loop to be) and gently twist the strip into a spiral shape. Shape it so that the colors alternate in a helix, creating a tree effect.
You may prefer to pin the spiral in place first before sewing to help maintain shape.
With a tapestry needle and matching yarn, tack the spiral at intervals down the central axis—about every 6–8cm (2.5–3 inches)—to preserve the three-dimensional effect. Make sure the spiral is secured but not so tight that it loses its curl.
Leave both ends open for attaching the star and bell.

Part 3: Crochet Star Topper & Hanging Loop

Star (worked in joined rounds)

With Color C (light tan or gold), make a magic ring.
Round 1: Ch 1, 10 sc in ring, join with sl st to first sc (10 sts).
Round 2: Ch 1, 2 sc in each st around, join with sl st (20 sts).
Round 3 (star points):
- [Ch 4, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next ch, hdc in next ch, sk 3 sts from base, sl st in next st] repeat 5 times. (5 star points)
Fasten off, leaving long tail for sewing.

Optional: Make a second identical star and sew together for a thicker topper.

Hanging Loop

With Color C, ch 28–32 (adjust for desired loop length). Sl st into the base of the chain to form a loop.
Sew or crochet the chain securely to the back of the star using yarn tail.

Attaching the Star

Align the bottom of the star with the top of the spiral tree. Sew securely through both the star and the top of the spiral using the tail left on the star.
Ensure the loop sits at the top center when hung.

Part 4: Snowflake Appliqués & Bead Embellishments

Snowflake Appliqués (Make 3–5 in White, Color D)

(For each snowflake):

Make a magic ring, ch 1.
Work 6 sc into the ring, join with sl st.
*Ch 5, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, ch 2, sl st in next 2 chs back on the starting chain, sl st in next stitch on the ring*; repeat from * to * 5 times for 6 points.
Fasten off, weave in ends.

Alternatively, use purchased snowflake buttons.

Pearl Bead Accents

With a tapestry needle and strong thread, sew pearl beads securely at regular intervals along the spiral—alternating sides for balance (about 6–8 total).

Securing Appliqués

Sew the snowflakes at visually even intervals on the burgundy sections with invisible thread or a yarn needle.

Part 5: Attaching the Bell

Thread strong sewing thread through the loop at the top of the metallic bell and through the base of the spiral ornament.
Stitch securely, making several passes to ensure the bell does not detach.
Weave in all remaining yarn and thread ends.

Assembly and Finishing

Double-check placement of star, spiral shape, and all embellishments before weaving in ends.
Lightly steam block the spiral (if yarn is heat safe) by suspending it and using a handheld steamer or steam iron at a safe distance to set shape.
Press the star flat (avoid crushing detail); finger-shape snowflakes and tree as needed.
Trim tails on wrong side, keeping the visible piece tidy and professional.
If desired, gently twist spiral tighter or looser to adjust drape and curl before hanging.

Customization Ideas

Colors: Use green and white, gold and red, or blue and silver for alternative festive schemes.
Yarn Weight: Make a miniature version with thinner yarn for gift toppers or a jumbo version in bulky yarn for a bold wall hanging.
Embellishments: Try sequins, tiny bells, or buttons for added bling.
Uses: Hang as a Christmas tree ornament, make multiples for a garland, or use as a festive doorknob or mantel decoration. Attach to a base for a holiday table centerpiece.
Pillow Appliqué: Sew a flat version of the spiral and star onto a cushion cover for a holiday throw pillow.

Troubleshooting Tips

Curling Too Tight or Loose: If your spiral is too tight, gently stretch it after blocking. If it’s too loose, make a shorter or wider strip, or add a wire along one side for reinforcement.
Uneven Edges: If joining strips leaves unevenness, use pins or blocking to shape before final assembly.
Motif Too Large/Small: Adjust your hook size or yarn thickness, or increase/decrease starting chains and number of rows evenly on both strips.
Loose Color Changes: Always finish the last yarn-over of the previous stitch with new color for crisp joins.
Uneven Tension: Practice a few sample swatches to even out your stitches before working the final ornament.

Care Instructions

Hand wash gently in cold water with mild detergent.
Do not wring; press between towels to remove moisture. Air dry flat.
If using beads or embellishments, take care during washing and block shape as needed afterward.

Final Notes

Check stitch counts after each row, especially for the strips, and keep your tension consistent for the best spiral shape. Refer to the photo as a visual guide for placement and proportions. Don’t hesitate to adjust the length, number of embellishments, or overall style to fit your festive vision. Enjoy making this joyful ornament and let your creativity shine!