How to make a cross stitch gnome tree decoration
Add to your cross stitch decoration collection this mischievous festive 3D gnome bauble! Perfect for your Christmas tree, we show you how to turn your stitching into a handmade 3D Christmas decoration.
This little gnome kit originally came with The World of Cross Stitching magazine issue 353 (Special 2024), but is now available in our shop to buy! Pick up the 3D gnome cross stitch pattern, then come back to this article, ready to stitch.
Gnome cross stitch fact box
- Stitching time - 10 hours
- Types of stitches - Cross stitch, backstitch
- Easy of stitching - Beginner
What you’ll need for the gnome cross stitch decoration:
- 14-count white plastic aida - 12x12cm
- Stranded cotton
- Size 24 tapestry needle
- Baker’s twine
This cute and colourful gonk pattern is perfect for beginners, but if you are new to cross stitching, we have lots of helpful guides available. Find out how to cross stitch or learn more about cross stitch needle sizes.
Cross stitch gnome pattern
Remember, the gnome pattern is available in our shop for instant download. Get the PDF chart pack today.
How to make your gnome decoration
Watch our video tutorial or scroll down to follow the step-by-step instructions
How to make your gnome decoration: step by step instructions
Step 1
Use a ruler to find the centre of the plastic aida and start stitching the centre of the design from there.
Step 2
Once you’ve finished stitching, use sharp scissors to cut a border around the edge of the stitched design, following the cutting line on the chart as a guide. Be careful not to snip into any holes containing stitches.
Step 3
Create a loop with your baker’s twine and tie the ends together in a knot.
Step 4
Bend the plastic aida to line up the straight edges. Starting at the bottom of the gnome’s body, use whipstitch in two strands to join the edges together.
Change the thread colour as you go to match adjacent stitches. Learn more about whipstitching in our ultimate guide to plastic canvas.
Step 5
As you get near the top, insert the baker’s twine with the knot inside the cone, then continue whipstitching to the top and secure the ends.
Step 6
Your fun 3D gnome decoration is now ready to hang on your Christmas tree!
Get the set of 3D cross stitch cone decorations
If you bought this gnome cross stitch decoration from our shop, then you'll also have the patterns for our adorable angel and cross stitch snowman. The same technique is used to make these 3D decorations, too!
Stitch your trio of decorations and hang them on your tree to admire this Christmas.
Enjoy more 3D cross stitch gnomes
Kids and adults alike will love getting up to all sorts of mischief with these colourful 3D Scandi-style gnomes! Download the PDF patterns with making-up instructions for creating a whole family of cute cone characters today.
