Crocheted Christmas tree with shell stitches and a gold bow Pattern

Overview & Inspiration

Bring holiday warmth to your home with the Crocheted Christmas tree with shell stitches and a gold bow Pattern. This festive project pairs rich red yarn with delicate gold edging and layered shell stitches to create a stunning openwork holiday decoration.

Designed with cascading fan-shaped branches and a handmade gold bow, this versatile ornament makes a gorgeous wall hanging or seasonal door accent. It offers a wonderful way for crafters of all levels to practice essential crochet techniques while crafting a treasured heirloom.

Materials & Tools Checklist

Approximately 80–120 yards of red DK-weight cotton yarn
Approximately 25–40 yards of gold or champagne DK-weight yarn
3.0 mm or 3.5 mm crochet hook
Yarn needle for weaving in ends
Small sharp scissors and stitch markers
Measuring tape, rustproof pins, and a blocking mat
Optional fabric stiffener for extra structure

Pattern Stitches & Abbreviations

ch: chain
sl st: slip stitch
sc: single crochet
hdc: half double crochet
dc: double crochet
tr: treble crochet
st(s): stitch(es)
sp: space | sk: skip | rep: repeat
RS: right side | WS: wrong side | FO: fasten off | MR: magic ring

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the Motif Base: With red DK-weight yarn and a 3.5 mm hook, make 15 identical shell motifs arranged in five horizontal tiers (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 fans per tier).
Row 1: Make a MR. Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work 4 dc into the ring, and turn (5 dc). Pull the ring closed securely.
Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc), work 1 dc in the first st, 1 dc in each remaining st across, and turn.
Apply Edging and Assemble: Trim the scalloped edges of each fan with your gold or champagne yarn, then join the 15 motifs with short yarn connections to preserve the open tree silhouette.
Finish with Bow & Loop: Crochet a small rectangular trunk for the base, fashion a gold bow for the top, and add a hanging loop for easy display.

Assembly & Finishing

Block your completed tree using rustproof pins and a blocking mat to ensure clean, symmetrical lines. Use a yarn needle to securely weave in all loose ends before hanging your festive masterpiece.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Choose a smooth cotton yarn to give your shell stitches crisp definition and help them maintain their shape.
Work a practice fan before starting the main project to dial in your tension and ensure the pieces lie flat.
Adjust your hook size down for a smaller, firmer ornament or up if you plan on making a larger wall-hanging version.

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