Guest Author - Kate Pullen

Crochet Christmas decorations and ornaments are great projects for crocheters of all experience levels. Being small objects, they are quick to make and use small amounts of yarn. This means that they are a good way for novice crocheters to put to use their new found skills and also offer experienced crocheters the opportunity to try out new stitches and techniques.

There are a wide variety of fancy yarns and threads available that will look wonderful when crocheted into ornaments. Glittering gold threads, or white fluffy eyelash yarn will transform a simple shape into something festively stunning. A whole new collection of Christmas ornaments can be crocheted from a single ball of yarn, or how about making presents for family and friends.


Snowflakes
Snowflakes are straightforward to make and there are many patterns on the Internet freely available. It is very easy to adapt and create your own designs. Experiment with a couple of ready made patterns first to get a feel for how they work and then try varying them by changing the stitches, or the number of rows to make something different.

Snowflakes benefit from lightly blocking after they have been finished and if they are starched to make them slightly stiff, using a dilute starch solution, they will hang flat.

Crochet Christmas Garlands
Why not use up some of that yarn stash by crocheting Christmas Garlands. By simply working lengths of chain stitch using a selection of different yarns and a crochet hook, extremely unusual Christmas garlands can be made. Hang some ornaments from this for an additional festive touch.

Crocheted Christmas garlands are long lasting and are a good way to recycle and reuse old yarns. They are cheaper than buying garlands and are bound to draw comment.

Ornaments
Any small shape if crocheted in typical Christmas colors such as red and green, or red and gold, will take on a festive look. Why make some tiny festive granny squares for your tree, or simply crochet a couple of round discs and stitch these together. Stuff with cotton wool, maybe with a dab of orange and cinnamon essential oils, for a lovely Christmas decoration

There are many patterns available for Christmas ornaments. Take a look at the wonderful selection at Crochet Pattern Central

Crochet with Wire
It is easy to crochet ornaments with wire. The wire gives a stiff structure to the ornament and with the addition of beads can look stunning. Crystal beads will reflect the light from the Christmas tree and bring something different to your tree.

With a bit of imagination wonderful Christmas decorations and ornaments can be made. Have fun experimenting!