Learn to Crochet a Beautiful Angel in Easy Steps

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The History of the Christmas Tree Angel
3. Materials and Tools Needed
4. Making the Head of the Angel
   1. Forming the Circle
   2. Making the First Row of Trebles
   3. Joining the Head
5. Creating the Body of the Angel
   1. Starting the Body
   2. Making Rows of Trebles
   3. Shaping the Body
6. Designing the Skirt of the Angel
   1. Making the Loop Rows
   2. Adding the Picot Edging
7. Crafting the Wings
   1. Creating the First Wing
   2. Adding the Picot Edging to the Wing
   3. Making the Second Wing
8. Finishing Touches
   1. Starching the Angel
   2. Decorating the Christmas Tree
9. Conclusion

The History of the Christmas Tree Angel

In this article, we will explore the fascinating history of the Christmas tree angel and learn how to create our very own angel to adorn our holiday tree. The tradition of placing an angel on top of the Christmas tree dates back many years and holds significant meaning for many people around the world. We will take a closer look at the materials and tools needed for this project and then dive into the step-by-step process of making the angel.

Materials and Tools Needed

Before we begin crafting our Christmas tree angel, let's gather the necessary materials and tools. Here's what you will need:

• Yarn: Choose a color of your preference, such as pink or white, and opt for a thicker yarn to make the angel more visible.
• Crochet Hooks: Select a crochet hook size that works well with your chosen yarn. A 1.5-millimeter hook is recommended for thin mercerized cotton crochet yarn.
• Scissors: A pair of sharp scissors will be essential for cutting the yarn.
• Needle: Have a large-eyed needle on hand for weaving in loose ends and attaching pieces together.

Now that we have everything we need, let's get started on crafting our beautiful Christmas tree angel.

Making the Head of the Angel

To begin our project, we will first create the head of the angel. This part forms the base for the rest of the body and wings. Let's follow these steps:

1. Forming the Circle:
   • To start, make a loop and chain 6. Join the ends together to form a circle.
2. Making the First Row of Trebles:
   • Create the head by making 10 trebles into the formed circle. Begin with a chain of 3, followed by a treble. Chain 1 between each treble to space them evenly.
   • Continue making trebles until you have a total of 10.
   • To complete the first row, chain 1 and join it with a single crochet into the beginning.
3. Joining the Head:
   • With the first row complete, you now have the head of the angel. Leave the end of the thread inside and cut it off.
   • Congratulations! You have successfully created the head of your Christmas tree angel.

Now that we have completed the head, let's move on to crafting the body of the angel.

Creating the Body of the Angel

The body of the angel is the central part that connects the head and the wings. Let's follow these steps to create the body:

1. Starting the Body:
   • Chain 5 and begin directly from where you finished the previous row.
2. Making Rows of Trebles:
   • Do double trebles into the space below, using two yarn overs on the hook. Chain 2 after each double treble.
   • Continue this pattern until you have a total of four rows. Each row should consist of groups of three trebles, with a chain of 1 between each group.
3. Shaping the Body:
   • At the end of each row, chain 3 and turn the work. Make a treble into the same stitch where the chain started. Continue making groups of three trebles to the end of each row, with a chain of 1 between each group.
   • Repeat this process until you have reached your desired size for the body.

Great! Now we have our angel's body in place. Let's move on to designing the skirt of the angel.

Designing the Skirt of the Angel

The skirt of the angel adds a lovely touch to its overall appearance. Let's follow these steps to create the skirt:

1. Making the Loop Rows:
   • Begin by chaining 4 and turning the work. Make a double crochet (single crochet in American terms) into the space between the two groups on the previous row.
   • Continue making loops by chaining 3 and attaching them with a double crochet in the middle of the previous row's loops.
   • Repeat this pattern until you have the desired number of loop rows. Remember to chain 5 before turning each row.
2. Adding the Picot Edging:
   • To finish off the skirt, create a picot edging. Start by chaining 4 and turning the work. Insert the hook into the third stitch from the hook, looking backward, and make a double crochet.
   • Make additional double crochets into each loop, chaining 1 between each one. Repeat this pattern until you reach the end of the row.
   • Cut the yarn, pull it through, and finish off this section of the skirt.

Fantastic! We now have a stunning skirt for our angel. Let's move on to crafting the wings.

Crafting the Wings

The wings add elegance and grace to our Christmas tree angel. Let's follow these steps to create the wings:

1. Creating the First Wing:
   • Insert the hook into the designated spot on the angel's body and pull the yarn through. Chain 11.
   • Make a half treble (double crochet in American terms) into the fifth stitch from the hook to form the first part of the wing's structure.
   • Continue making chains and stitches according to the pattern, alternating between trebles, double trebles, and double crochets. This will give the wing its unique shape.
   • Attach the wing to the appropriate spot on the angel's body.
2. Adding the Picot Edging to the Wing:
   • Turn the wing around and create a picot edging. Chain 3, then make a slip stitch (single crochet in American terms) into the first chain to form the root.
   • Make a double crochet into the next space between the trebles. Repeat this pattern until you reach the end of the wing.
   • Cut the yarn, pull it through, and secure the edging.

We now have one wing completed. Let's move on to creating the second wing.

Finishing Touches

With the body, skirt, and wings complete, it's time to add the finishing touches to our Christmas tree angel. Let's follow these steps:

1. Starching the Angel:
   • To stiffen the angel, dip it in a mixture of water and sugar. Bring equal parts of water and white sugar to a brief boil, then submerge the angel in the solution.
   • Remove the angel and set it on a surface that won't cause it to stick. Shape it carefully to achieve the desired posture and appearance.
   • Allow the angel to dry for a couple of days until it becomes rigid and ready to decorate.
2. Decorating the Christmas Tree:
   • Once the angel is dry, lightly spray it with starch or a clear craft adhesive to maintain its shape and durability.
   • Hang the angel on your Christmas tree, positioning it at the top for a stunning centerpiece. Alternatively, you can share the angel with friends and loved ones as a heartfelt gift.

Congratulations! You have successfully crafted your own Christmas tree angel. Enjoy the beauty and symbolism it brings to your holiday celebrations.

Conclusion

The Christmas tree angel holds a special place in our hearts and traditions. By creating our own angel, we have connected with the rich history of this adornment while adding a personal touch to our holiday decorations. With simple materials and a little creativity, we can craft a beautiful and meaningful symbol that will brighten our Christmas tree for years to come.

Now, let your imagination soar and have fun with your angels! Spread the joy by sharing this craft with others and relish in the beauty of the holiday season.