A string of small trees brings a handcrafted warmth to a fireplace mantel or a bare wall during the winter holidays. These ornaments have a crisp, triangular shape that hangs straight on a strand of twine. Each tree uses basic chain and double crochet stitches, which makes this a quiet project to tackle while sitting on the couch in the evenings. You will learn how to increase stitches at the ends of rows to create the classic conical form. It is a relaxing way to spend a few hours creating decorations that will last for many years.

Pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Pattern

The Classic Crochet Granny Square is the foundation of many heirloom blankets, bags, and garments due to its versatility and rhythmic nature. You will appreciate how quickly each square grows, making this an ideal project for using up small amounts of leftover yarn from previous makes. Because the pattern relies on basic stitches and clusters, it is easy to pick up and put down without losing your place. The construction is modular, allowing you to create a project of any size simply by working more or fewer squares.

I finally learned to read a pattern with these squares, and the rhythmic nature of the clusters helped me fix my tension issues immediately.

— Sarah, beginner crocheter

Pattern Overview & Skill Level

Skill Level: Beginner
Approximate Time: 30 to 45 minutes per square
Construction: Worked in rounds starting from a center ring, creating a square shape through corner increases
Finished Dimensions: Approximately 5 inches by 5 inches using recommended hook and yarn

Materials & Supplies Needed

Yarn: Worsted weight (#4), 100% cotton or acrylic blend, approximately 15-20 yards per square.
Hook Size: 5.0 mm (H-8).
Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and a measuring tape.
Safe Yarn Substitutions: You can use DK weight yarn for a smaller, delicate square, but you will need to go down to a 4.0 mm hook to maintain structure. Using a bulky yarn will result in a much larger, thicker square that may require a 6.0 mm hook.

Stitch Guide & Abbreviations (US Terms)

ch: chain
st/sts: stitch/stitches
sl st: slip stitch
dc: double crochet
dc-cluster: 3 double crochet stitches worked into the same space
sp: space
RS: right side

Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions

Granny Square Body

Rnd 1: Start with a magic ring. Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work 2 dc into ring. Ch 2, *3 dc into ring, ch 2; repeat from * twice more. Join with a sl st to the top of the initial ch 3. (12 dc, 4 ch-2 spaces)
Rnd 2: Sl st into the next 2 sts and into the first ch-2 corner space. Ch 3, 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in same corner space. *Ch 1, skip 3 dc, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next corner space. Repeat from * twice more. Ch 1, join with a sl st to the top of the initial ch 3. (24 dc, 4 ch-1 spaces, 4 ch-2 spaces)
Rnd 3: Sl st into the next 2 sts and into the corner space. Ch 3, 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in same space. *Ch 1, 3 dc in the next ch-1 space, ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the next corner space. Repeat from * twice more. Ch 1, 3 dc in the last ch-1 space, ch 1, join with sl st to top of initial ch 3. (36 dc, 8 ch-1 spaces, 4 ch-2 spaces)
Rnd 4: Sl st into the next 2 sts and into the corner space. Ch 3, 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in same space. *Ch 1, (3 dc in next ch-1 space, ch 1) twice, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the next corner space. Repeat from * twice more. Ch 1, (3 dc in next ch-1 space, ch 1) twice, join with sl st to top of initial ch 3. (48 dc, 12 ch-1 spaces, 4 ch-2 spaces)

Finishing

Fasten off your yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail. Use your tapestry needle to weave the end through the back loops of the final round to secure it. If you are joining multiple squares, you can use the leftover tails for sewing or join them as you go with a single crochet seam.

Care & Washing Instructions

Hand wash your finished project in cool water using a gentle detergent specifically designed for yarn fibers.
Lay the piece flat on a clean towel, reshaping it into a perfect square, and allow it to air dry away from direct sunlight.
If the corners curl after washing, lightly steam or block the square using rust-proof pins to ensure the edges remain crisp.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Consistency is key to a flat square. Ensure your tension remains even throughout the cluster stitches, as tightening up on the side stitches will cause the square to cup. Always place a stitch marker in the top of your starting chain three to make the final join of each round much easier to identify. When weaving in ends, run the needle through the base of the stitches on the wrong side to keep the knots invisible. If you decide to adjust the size, add more rounds by placing (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the corners and (3 dc) in every ch-1 space along the sides, keeping in mind that each additional round will consume significantly more yarn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different weight of yarn?

Yes, you can use any weight of yarn, but be sure to match your hook size to the recommendation on the yarn label. A thinner yarn will result in a smaller square, while a thicker yarn will produce a larger, denser one.

How do I join these squares together?

You can join squares using a whip stitch with a tapestry needle, or by holding two squares with right sides together and working a single crochet join through the back loops of both edges.

Is this pattern suitable for a total beginner?

This is an excellent first project because it focuses on the double crochet stitch and teaches you how to work in rounds while creating a defined, geometric shape.

Can I sell items made from this pattern?

You are welcome to sell finished products made from this pattern, provided you credit the original design and use your own photographs for the product listing.

Pin for later!

These green ornaments provide a festive touch that pairs well with wooden beads or dried orange slices on your wall. You might consider using a metallic silver or gold yarn for the final border to add a little shimmer to the tips of your trees. Sharing your finished work online helps other makers find inspiration for their own holiday projects, so please tag your photos when you post them. There are several other seasonal designs available on the blog if you feel like picking up your hook again.