The Frosted Fir Cone Gnome Ornament Free Pattern – A Knitted Ode to Woodland Winters

Bring a touch of enchanted forest charm to your holiday tree with this whimsical knitted gnome ornament, complete with a snowy fir cone body and a fluffy white beard. This quick project uses chunky yarn and simple stitches to create a cozy, nature-inspired keepsake. Perfect for beginners and experienced knitters alike, this little gnome will add rustic warmth to your Christmas decor or make a heartfelt handmade gift.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies to ensure a smooth knitting experience:

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in forest green (for the fir cone body), cream (for the head and beard), warm brown (for the nose), and a small amount of black (for the eyes).
• Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) knitting needles.
• Notions: A tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends, and a small amount of fiberfill for stuffing.
• Gauge: 20 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Gauge is not critical for this project, but aim for a firm fabric so the stuffing doesn't show through.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This ornament is knitted flat in pieces and then seamed, with a simple I-cord loop for hanging. The fir cone body is created using a textured stitch pattern that mimics overlapping scales. Follow each section carefully, and you'll have a charming gnome in no time.

Fir Cone Body (Make 1)

Using forest green yarn, cast on 12 stitches.

• Row 1 (RS): Knit all stitches.
• Row 2: Purl all stitches.
• Row 3: *K1, yarn over, k2tog* repeat from * to end (12 stitches).
• Row 4: Purl all stitches, dropping the yarn overs to create elongated loops.
• Row 5: Knit all stitches, but pick up the dropped loops and knit them together with the next stitch to form a scale-like texture.
• Row 6: Purl all stitches.

Repeat Rows 3-6 until the piece measures 3 inches from the cast-on edge, ending with a purl row. This creates a textured, cone-like fabric.

Shape the top:

• Row 1 (RS): K2tog across (6 stitches).
• Row 2: Purl all stitches.
• Row 3: K2tog across (3 stitches).

Cut yarn, thread through remaining stitches, and pull tight to gather. Sew the side seam to form a cone, leaving the bottom open.

Gnome Head (Make 1)

Using cream yarn, cast on 8 stitches.

• Row 1: Knit all stitches.
• Row 2: Purl all stitches.
• Row 3: Increase in every stitch (16 stitches).
• Row 4: Purl all stitches.
• Row 5: Knit all stitches.
• Row 6: Purl all stitches.
• Row 7: Knit all stitches.
• Row 8: Purl all stitches.
• Row 9: K2tog across (8 stitches).

Cut yarn, thread through remaining stitches, pull tight, and seam to form a small ball. Stuff lightly with fiberfill.

Beard (Make 1)

Using cream yarn, cast on 10 stitches.

• Row 1: Knit all stitches.
• Row 2: Purl all stitches.
• Row 3: K1, *yarn over, k2tog* repeat from * to last stitch, K1 (10 stitches).
• Row 4: Purl all stitches, dropping the yarn overs to create long loops.
• Row 5: Knit all stitches, but do not pick up the loops; let them hang loose to form a fluffy beard.

Bind off loosely. Trim the loops to an even length.

Nose (Make 1)

Using warm brown yarn, cast on 4 stitches.

• Knit 4 rows in stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl one row).

Cut yarn, thread through stitches, pull tight, and seam into a small ball. Stuff lightly.

Assembly

Now it's time to bring your gnome to life. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Attach the head: Sew the gnome head to the top of the fir cone body, covering the gathered edge. Make sure it sits securely.
2. Add the beard: Attach the beard just below the head, wrapping it around the front of the cone. Use a whip stitch to secure it in place.
3. Sew the nose: Position the nose in the center of the beard and sew it on firmly.
4. Embroider the eyes: Using black yarn, embroider two small eyes above the beard. Make them simple French knots or small straight stitches.
5. Create the hanging loop: With forest green yarn, cast on 3 stitches and knit an I-cord for 4 inches. Bind off and sew the ends to the top of the head.
6. Weave in all ends: Use your tapestry needle to weave in any loose yarn ends securely, ensuring a neat finish.

Optional: Knitted Red Hat

If you'd like to add a festive touch, knit a simple triangle of red yarn. Cast on 6 stitches, decrease one stitch at the beginning of each row until 1 stitch remains, then bind off. Sew the hat to the top of the head, covering the I-cord attachment point.

Your Frosted Fir Cone Gnome Ornament is now complete! Hang it on your tree, give it as a gift, or display it as a charming woodland decoration. The rustic, cozy aesthetic is perfect for a natural Christmas tree and will bring a smile to anyone who sees it. Happy knitting!