How to Crochet Christmas Tree Pattern for Festive Holiday Style

Hi friends, it is Amy! This little layered Christmas tree is one of the happiest beginner projects I know. You make three ruffled circles with a pretty fan edge, stack them up, pop a tiny star on top, and suddenly you have a tree that is about 6 inches tall and full of character.

Each layer uses exactly the same three rounds — 6, then 12, then 18 double crochets — followed by the fan edging worked into the back loops. That repetition is what makes it so relaxing, especially if you are new to working in the round. You can use one green throughout, or join a new shade of green for each layer to give the tree distinct tiers.

I like these on a mantel, as gift toppers, or lined up as a little forest on a windowsill. Add beads or sequins if you like a bit of sparkle — the fan edge shows them off beautifully.

Materials

• Green yarn for the tree
• Optional alternative colours for the layered tree sections
• Yellow or gold yarn for the star
• 3 mm crochet hook
• Glue or silicone (optional), for affixing the star
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Scissors

Abbreviations

• CH: chain
• SC: single crochet
• DC: double crochet
• SL ST: slip stitch
• INC: increase (2 DC in the same stitch)

Special Stitches

• Fan stitch: work 2 DC, 1 CH, 2 DC into the same stitch to create the decorative edging

Gauge & Size

• Gauge: 5 single crochets x 5 rows = 1 inch (gauge is not critical for this project)
• Finished height: approximately 6 inches, including the star
• Finished width: about 3 inches at the base
• Skill level: Beginner, US crochet terms

First Layer Pattern

Round 1: Create a magic ring. Crochet 6 DC into the magic ring. Pull the tail of the ring tightly to close the circle. Join with a SL ST to the first DC to close the round.

Round 2: CH 1, crochet 2 DC (INC) into each stitch around. (Total: 12 DC) Join with a SL ST to the first DC.

Round 3: CH 1, crochet 2 DC in the first stitch, then 1 DC in the next stitch. Repeat (2 DC, 1 DC) around. (Total: 18 DC) Join with a SL ST to complete.

Fan edging: CH 1, work into the back loops of the stitches as follows: 1 SC, (2 DC, CH 1, 2 DC) in the next stitch, 1 SC. Repeat this fan pattern all the way around.

Second Layer Pattern

Join a new colour if you wish, to give the tree distinct layers. Follow the exact same process as the first layer.

Round 1: Start with a magic ring and crochet 6 DC.

Round 2: Crochet 2 DC into each stitch around. (Total: 12 DC)

Round 3: Crochet 2 DC, then 1 DC alternately around. (Total: 18 DC)

Add the fan pattern into the back loop, just like you did before.

Third Layer Pattern

As with the first two layers, create the top layer the same way.

Round 1: Magic ring, 6 DC.

Round 2: 2 DC into each stitch. (Total: 12 DC)

Round 3: 2 DC, 1 DC alternately. (Total: 18 DC)

Add fan stitching for the decorative edge, following the same instructions as the previous layers.

Star Pattern

Create a magic ring.

Inside the ring: Crochet 1 SC, 1 CH, and 1 DC. Stretch the loop slightly and crochet 1 CH, then secure with 1 SC.

Repeat this process 5 times to form the star’s points.

Pull the ring tightly to close the star. Use SL ST to secure the point. Trim any excess yarn or weave in the ends.

Finishing & Assembly

Stack the layers from largest (base) to smallest (top), aligning the centres.

Secure the layers with a dab of glue, light stitching, or a hidden strand of yarn drawn through all layers.

Attach the star to the top of the tree using glue or a needle and thread.

Tips

Give your tree a personal touch by adding beads, sequins, or embroidered details.

Alternate shades of green between layers for a more defined, tiered look.

Keep the fan edging consistent — work it into the back loops on every layer for the same ruffled finish.