Every December the same thing happens: you look for free crochet gnome patterns and find a wall of photos, half of them linking to paid shops or dead pages. So we opened all 20 crochet gnome patterns below one by one on the designers’ own pages and sorted them by what you need: easy, no-sew, tree ornament, big, or a gift. Most roundups give you only a photo and a link, so we added the size, hook, yarn and sewing for every gnome. That way you know what you’re getting before you click.
Images are original AI-created editorial illustrations. Follow designer links to see the actual pattern designs.
Quick answer: For a first gnome, make Jen Hayes’ Beginner Crochet Gnome (the beard and arms are crocheted on, so there’s almost no sewing). If you hate sewing, pick Darling Maple’s No-Sew Mini Squishmas Santa Gnome. For the tree, choose Raffamusa’s Christmas Gnome Ornament. For a big statement piece, go with HanJan’s Christmas Gnome (up to 21.5 in) or Moogly’s Gnome Basket (13 in, 16 mm hook).
All links checked: November 2, 2026. Each pattern below has a pattern card with its level, time, sewing, yarn, hook, size and what is free.
A quick note: we curate, we don’t copy. Every pattern belongs to its designer, so the full instructions are on their page. Times marked “approx.” are our estimates. Times marked “per designer” come from the pattern itself.
Looking for something specific? Try our Pattern Finder to filter every pattern by skill level, time, sewing and hook size.
Jump to: Compare all 20 · Easy for beginners · No-sew & low-sew · Tree ornaments · Classic Nordic gnomes · Large gnomes · Gifts & home decor · Gifts by person · Easy on the hands · Video tutorials · Gift timeline · One-evening gnomes · Shopping list · Craft fair batches · FAQ
New to crochet gnomes? 5 words you’ll see below
- Amigurumi: small stuffed toys made with crochet (a Japanese word).
- Magic ring: an adjustable loop you start most round pieces with, so the center closes tight with no hole.
- Loop stitch / fringe beard: two common ways to make the beard. Loop stitch is crocheted in; a fringe beard is short strands of yarn knotted on.
- Weighted base: plastic pellets or dry beans in a small bag at the bottom, so a tall gnome stands up straight.
- Worsted / bulky: yarn thickness. Worsted (#4) is medium; bulky (#5) and jumbo (#7) are thick and work up fast.
Compare all 20 free crochet gnome patterns at a glance
| # | Pattern | Designer | Size | Level | Sewing | Yarn / hook |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Beginner Crochet Gnome | Jen Hayes Creations | 5.5 in | Advanced beginner | 1/3 | Worsted / 3.5 mm |
| 2 | Mini Crochet Gnome | A Crafty Concept | 4.5 in | Beginner | 2/3 | Worsted / 3.75 mm |
| 3 | Amigurumi Gnome (and his wife) | Winding Road Crochet | 7.5 in | Easy | 3/3 | Worsted / 3.5 mm |
| 4 | Reversible Crochet Gnome | Nicki’s Homemade Crafts | 6 × 9 in | Easy | 2/3 | Worsted / 4 mm |
| 5 | No-Sew Mini Squishmas Santa Gnome | Darling Maple Designs | Not listed | Beginner friendly | 0/3 | Super bulky plush / Not listed |
| 6 | Crochet Snowman Gnome | Jen Hayes Creations | 6 in with hat | Intermediate | 1/3 | Worsted / 3.5 mm |
| 7 | Christmas Gnome Keychains (3 gnomes) | Passionate Crafter | 10.5 cm | Beginner to advanced | 1/3 or glue | DK / 3.5 mm |
| 8 | Christmas Gnome Ornament | Raffamusa Designs | 3 × 3.8 in | Not rated | 2/3 | DK cotton / 2.75 mm |
| 9 | Gnome on a Swing Ornament | Octopus Crochet | 15 cm | Not rated | 2/3 | DK cotton / 3.5 mm |
| 10 | Crochet Santa Gnome | Jen Hayes Creations | Not listed | Intermediate | 2/3 | Worsted + bulky / 3.5 mm |
| 11 | Scandinavian Gnome | Make It Sew Crochet | 10 in | Not rated | 2/3 | Worsted / 4.25 mm |
| 12 | Nordic Christmas Gnome | Natty Toys (Red Ted Art) | 22 cm | Not rated | 2/3 | Fine cotton blend / 2 mm |
| 13 | Gnorman the Christmas Gnome | The Loopy Lamb | 10 in | Intermediate | 2/3 | Worsted + faux fur / 5.5 mm |
| 14 | Christmas Gnome (2 sizes) | HanJan Crochet | 18 or 21.5 in | Easy | 2/3 | Worsted / 4.5 mm |
| 15 | Simple Crochet Gnome Basket | Moogly | 13 in | Not rated | 1/3 | Jumbo (#7) / 16 mm |
| 16 | Gnome Crochet Pattern | Darling Maple Designs | Not listed | Not rated | 2/3 | Bulky / 5.5 mm |
| 17 | Gnome Gift Card Holder | Green Fox Farms Designs | 5 × 4 in | Easy | 1/3 | Worsted cotton / 4 mm |
| 18 | Santa Gnome Lip Balm Holder | Nicki’s Homemade Crafts | 5 × 1.5 in | Not rated | 1/3 | Worsted cotton / 4 mm |
| 19 | Gnome Tissue Box Cover | Nana’s Crafty Home | Fits a cube box | Not rated | 2/3 | Worsted + bulky / 6 mm |
| 20 | Christmas Gnome Granny Square | Raffamusa Designs | 5.5 in | Not rated | 2/3 | DK / 4 mm + 3.5 mm |
Sewing scale: 0/3 = no sewing, 1/3 = one small part, 2/3 = several parts, 3/3 = lots of assembly.
Easy crochet gnome patterns for beginners
Most gnomes look simple: a cone hat, a beard, a nose. Then you open the pattern and find six separate pieces, a fringe beard of 40 strands and a page of sewing. Many beginners stop there.
For a first gnome, the number of pieces matters more than the size. A gnome where the beard and arms are crocheted onto the body is far easier than a smaller one you assemble by hand. Worsted yarn and a 3.5–4 mm hook also make the stitches easy to see.
Start with a gnome that joins its parts as you go, then try the ones with more assembly. New to reading patterns? Read how to read crochet patterns first.
A first-timer can finish Jen Hayes’ Beginner Gnome (#1) with almost no needle work. The same person starting with the Winding Road couple (#3) would spend a whole evening just sewing on arms, feet, nose and beard.
1. Beginner Crochet Gnome by Jen Hayes Creations
The best first gnome on this list. The beard and arms are seamlessly crocheted onto the body, so you skip most of the sewing. The pattern also gives three sizes: worsted, sport, or a tiny version in crochet thread.
| Skill level | Advanced beginner (per designer) |
| Time | 2–3 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 1/3 · optional buttons only |
| Yarn | Worsted (#4), or sport or size 10 thread for smaller gnomes |
| Hook | 3.5 mm (E-4) |
| Finished size | 5.5 in / 14 cm (worsted) |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | A first gnome with clean results |
| Watch out | Optional weighted base helps him sit up |
Get the free pattern at Jen Hayes Creations →
2. Mini Crochet Gnome by A Crafty Concept
A small, quick gnome with a simple yarn beard or braids. It uses basic stitches and worsted yarn, so it’s a good choice for a batch of little gifts.
| Skill level | Beginner (per designer) |
| Time | 1–2 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 2/3 · hat and nose; beard is knotted on |
| Yarn | Worsted / Aran (#4) |
| Hook | 3.75 mm (F-5) |
| Finished size | 4.5 in / 11.5 cm |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | Quick gifts and stocking stuffers |
| Watch out | Choose beard or braids before you start |
Get the free pattern at A Crafty Concept →
3. Amigurumi Gnome by Winding Road Crochet
A 7.5-inch gnome and his wife in worsted yarn, using only basic stitches. Winding Road also has a video series, which helps if you learn by watching. It’s easy to crochet, but there are many small parts to attach.
| Skill level | Easy (basic stitches) |
| Time | 3–5 hrs per gnome (approx.) |
| Sewing | 3/3 · arms, feet, nose, beard, hat |
| Yarn | Worsted (#4) |
| Hook | 3.5 mm (E-4) |
| Finished size | 7.5 in / 19 cm |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | A matching gnome couple |
| Watch out | Many small attached parts |
Get the free pattern at Winding Road Crochet →
4. Reversible Crochet Gnome by Nicki’s Homemade Crafts
A 6 by 9 inch gnome in worsted acrylic, with a hat you can flip for two looks. The designer calls it easy, and the pieces are simple shapes, so it’s a nice step up after your first gnome.
| Skill level | Easy (per designer) |
| Time | 2–4 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 2/3 · beard, arms and nose |
| Yarn | Worsted (#4) acrylic |
| Hook | 4 mm (G-6) |
| Finished size | 6 × 9 in / 15 × 23 cm |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | Shelf or mantel decor |
| Watch out | Beard needs 27 yarn strands |
Get the free pattern at Nicki’s Homemade Crafts →
No-sew and low-sew crochet gnomes
Sewing is the step most people hate. Pieces slide around, the nose ends up crooked, and the gnome sits in a drawer for weeks waiting to be finished.
“No-sew” can mean three different things: parts are crocheted on as you go, parts are joined with stitch markers and worked into the next round, or they are glued. All three save time, but only the first two are safe for small children.
Pick a true no-sew pattern for gifts for kids, and keep glue for decorations that hang out of reach. Want more? See our 13 no-sew Christmas amigurumi patterns.
Making five gnomes for a craft-fair table? The No-Sew Squishmas Gnome (#5) skips assembly completely, so the fifth one takes about as long as the first.
5. No-Sew Mini Squishmas Santa Gnome by Darling Maple Designs
A squishy little Santa gnome in plush yarn, with the nose crocheted onto the body. There’s no sewing, and the designer marks it as beginner friendly and quick, with a video tutorial.
| Skill level | Beginner friendly (per designer) |
| Time | 1–2 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 0/3 · none |
| Yarn | Super bulky plush (#6), works like most #5 yarns |
| Hook | Not listed on the page |
| Finished size | Not listed (mini) |
| Access | Free on the blog + video (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | Fast no-sew gifts and market batches |
| Watch out | Plush yarn hides stitches, so use markers |
Get the free pattern at Darling Maple Designs →
6. Crochet Snowman Gnome by Jen Hayes Creations
Half snowman, half gnome, with two body options and an optional top hat. The arms are joined into the body rounds with stitch markers, so you don’t sew them on later. It’s rated intermediate because of the shaping.
| Skill level | Intermediate (per designer) |
| Time | 3–4 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 1/3 · two buttons |
| Yarn | Worsted (#4), soft acrylic |
| Hook | 3.5 mm (E-4) |
| Finished size | 5 in / 13 cm, 6 in / 15 cm with top hat |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | Winter decor that stays up until February |
| Watch out | Buttons are not safe for small children |
Get the free pattern at Jen Hayes Creations →
7. Christmas Gnome Keychains by Passionate Crafter
Three little gnomes from one pattern: Santa, an elf and a green holiday gnome. They work as ornaments or keychains. The designer glued her pieces with a hot glue gun, but you can sew them instead.
| Skill level | Beginner to advanced (per designer) |
| Time | 1–2 hrs each (approx.) |
| Sewing | 1/3 · or hot glue, per designer |
| Yarn | DK / light worsted (#3) |
| Hook | 3.5 mm (E-4) |
| Finished size | 10.5 cm / 4 in |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | Keychains, bag charms, Secret Santa |
| Watch out | Sew, don’t glue, if a child will hold it |
Get the free pattern at Passionate Crafter →
Crochet gnome ornaments for the tree
Gnome ornaments that look great on Pinterest often turn out too heavy for a branch, or so small that the beard is impossible to make neat.
The best tree gnomes are 3–6 inches, made in DK cotton (which holds its shape) and stuffed lightly. A ball or bauble body hangs straighter than a tall cone.
Choose a DK cotton ornament with a round body, and add a loop of yarn or ribbon into the hat before you close it. Pair them with our 15 free crochet ornament cover patterns for a matching tree.
For a set of six matching ornaments, the Raffamusa bauble gnome (#8) is the best pick: it’s round, light and about 3 inches, so it won’t bend a branch.
8. Christmas Gnome Ornament by Raffamusa Designs
A round gnome bauble with a fringe beard, a little nose, arms and shoes. It’s made in DK cotton with a 2.75 mm hook, so it’s crisp and neat, and the pattern lists US and UK hook sizes.
| Skill level | Not rated (some fine work) |
| Time | 2–3 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 2/3 · nose, arms, shoes, beard strands |
| Yarn | DK cotton (#3) |
| Hook | 2.75 mm (C-2) |
| Finished size | 3 × 3.8 in / 7.5 × 9.5 cm |
| Access | Free on the blog (paid PDF in a bundle) |
| Best for | A matching set of tree baubles |
| Watch out | Beard needs 40 short strands |
Get the free pattern at Raffamusa Designs →
9. Gnome on a Swing Ornament by Octopus Crochet
A sweet gnome sitting on a little swing, made to hang from the tree. It’s worked in DK cotton with clear gauge notes, which helps you get the same size as the designer.
| Skill level | Not rated |
| Time | 3–4 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 2/3 · limbs and swing |
| Yarn | DK cotton blend (#3) |
| Hook | 3.5 mm (E-4) |
| Finished size | 15 cm / 5.9 in tall |
| Access | Free on the blog |
| Best for | A special keepsake ornament |
| Watch out | 8 mm safety eyes: not for babies |
Get the free pattern at Octopus Crochet →
Classic Nordic and Santa gnomes
The tall Scandinavian gnome, with a hat over his eyes and a long beard, is the look most people picture. But many versions are rated intermediate and use thin yarn, so it’s hard to know where to start.
These gnomes come from the Swedish “tomte” and the Norwegian and Danish “nisse,” small house spirits linked to Christmas. The classic shape is simple; the difficulty comes from the hook size and the beard method.
If you have some experience, start with a worsted version like Make It Sew (#11). Choose the 2 mm Red Ted Art gnome (#12) only once you’re comfortable with fine yarn.
Want the classic look by this weekend? The Loopy Lamb’s Gnorman (#13) uses a 5.5 mm hook and a faux fur base, so he grows to 10 inches much faster than a 2 mm gnome of the same height.
10. Crochet Santa Gnome by Jen Hayes Creations
A detailed Santa gnome with boots, arms and a fuzzy beard in bulky “Pipsqueak” yarn. The nose is crocheted onto the body, and the pattern is rated intermediate for the extra pieces.
| Skill level | Intermediate (per designer) |
| Time | 4–6 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 2/3 · arms, legs, pom-pom |
| Yarn | Worsted (#4) + bulky (#5) fuzzy beard yarn |
| Hook | 3.5 mm (E-4) |
| Finished size | Not listed |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | A Santa centerpiece |
| Watch out | Fuzzy yarn is hard to frog |
Get the free pattern at Jen Hayes Creations →
11. Scandinavian Gnome by Make It Sew Crochet
A classic tall gnome, 10 inches high, in four colors of worsted yarn. He’s weighted with dry beans so he stands on a shelf. It’s a simple, older pattern that still shows up on page 1 of Google.
| Skill level | Not rated (basic stitches) |
| Time | 3–5 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 2/3 · nose, beard, hat |
| Yarn | Worsted (#4) |
| Hook | 4.25 mm (G) |
| Finished size | 10 in / 25 cm tall, 4 in wide |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | A classic shelf gnome |
| Watch out | Use a sealed bag for the beans |
Get the free pattern at Make It Sew Crochet →
12. Nordic Christmas Gnome by Natty Toys (Red Ted Art)
A 22 cm Scandinavian-style gnome with a tall hat, a beard and arms, worked with a 2 mm hook. It’s very neat and detailed, but the fine yarn makes it slower than the others.
| Skill level | Not rated (basic stitches) |
| Time | 4–6 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 2/3 · nose, beard, arms, hat |
| Yarn | Fine cotton blend (Yarn Art Jeans) |
| Hook | 2 mm (no US letter size) |
| Finished size | 9 in / 22 cm |
| Access | Free on the blog |
| Best for | Scandinavian-style decor |
| Watch out | Small hook with fine yarn |
Get the free pattern at Red Ted Art →
13. Gnorman the Christmas Gnome by The Loopy Lamb
A chunky 10-inch gnome with a faux fur base that looks like a big fluffy beard. He’s weighted with plastic pellets, so he stands up well. Rated intermediate, but the big hook makes him fast.
| Skill level | Intermediate (per designer) |
| Time | 3–4 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 2/3 · nose, hat and feet |
| Yarn | Worsted (#4) + faux fur |
| Hook | 5.5 mm (I-9), plus 3.5 mm (E-4) |
| Finished size | 10 in / 25 cm tall, 6 in wide |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | A fluffy statement gnome |
| Watch out | Needs about 170 g of pellets |
Get the free pattern at The Loopy Lamb →
Large crochet gnome patterns
A big gnome for the porch or the corner of the room sounds great until you realize a 20-inch amigurumi in worsted yarn can take a whole week.
To make a gnome big, change the yarn, not the number of rounds. Jumbo or bulky yarn on a big hook gives you height fast, and a weighted base keeps a tall gnome from tipping over.
For real height, pick HanJan (#14). For a fast, chunky look, pick a bulky or jumbo pattern like Moogly (#15) or Darling Maple (#16).
For example: HanJan’s large gnome reaches 21.5 inches in worsted yarn. Moogly’s basket reaches 13 inches with a 16 mm hook in about 2–3 hours (approx.).
14. Christmas Gnome by HanJan Crochet
A standing gnome in two sizes, 18 or 21.5 inches, in worsted (#4) yarn. The designer says it uses basic stitches and takes about 2 to 6 hours. You can also make a smaller version in DK yarn.
| Skill level | Easy (basic stitches, per designer) |
| Time | 2–6 hrs (per designer) |
| Sewing | 2/3 · beard, nose, hat |
| Yarn | Worsted (#4), or DK for a smaller gnome |
| Hook | 4.5 mm (7) |
| Finished size | 18 or 21.5 in / 46 or 55 cm |
| Access | Free for blog subscribers (free login) |
| Best for | Big standing decor |
| Watch out | Needs a free email login |
Get the free pattern at HanJan Crochet →
15. Simple Crochet Gnome Basket by Moogly
A gnome you can use: the body is a basket and the hat is a lid. It’s made in jumbo plush yarn with a 16 mm hook, so it grows very fast and is easy to grip. Fill it with candy, small gifts or yarn.
| Skill level | Not rated (simple stitches + popcorn nose) |
| Time | 2–3 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 1/3 · beard to the basket |
| Yarn | Jumbo (#7) plush, about 90 yds |
| Hook | 16 mm (Q) |
| Finished size | 7 × 13 in / 18 × 33 cm (across × tall) |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | A useful gift that holds treats |
| Watch out | Skein yardage varies; check before you buy |
Get the free pattern at Moogly →
16. Gnome Crochet Pattern by Darling Maple Designs
A chunky gnome in bulky yarn with arms, legs, a nose and long hair or beard. The 5.5 mm hook and bulky yarn make the stitches large and easy to see.
| Skill level | Not rated |
| Time | 3–4 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 2/3 · arms, legs, nose, hair |
| Yarn | Bulky (#5) |
| Hook | 5.5 mm (I-9) |
| Finished size | Not listed |
| Access | Free on the blog + video (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | Chunky shelf decor |
| Watch out | Leave long tails: up to 24 in for sewing |
Get the free pattern at Darling Maple Designs →
Crochet gnome gifts and home decor
A stuffed gnome is cute, but some people on your list don’t want more things on the shelf. You want a gift they’ll actually use.
A gnome becomes a useful gift when it holds something: a gift card, a lip balm, tissues or treats. These are also faster than amigurumi because they’re mostly flat or simple shapes.
Pair one of these with a small store-bought extra. See our 6 crochet Christmas gift sets for ideas, or browse 25 quick and easy crochet Christmas gifts.
For a teacher or coworker, the Gnome Gift Card Holder (#17) with a coffee-shop card is a complete gift in an evening.
17. Gnome Gift Card Holder by Green Fox Farms Designs
A flat Scandinavian gnome with a pocket that holds a gift card behind the beard. It’s made in worsted cotton, rated easy, and the designer offers it free as a holiday gift to her readers.
| Skill level | Easy (per designer) |
| Time | 1–2 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 1/3 · nose and hat to beard |
| Yarn | Worsted cotton (#4) |
| Hook | 4 mm (G-6) |
| Finished size | 5 × 4 in / 13 × 10 cm |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | Teachers, coworkers, Secret Santa |
| Watch out | Measure your card before closing the pocket |
Get the free pattern at Green Fox Farms Designs →
18. Santa Gnome Lip Balm Holder by Nicki’s Homemade Crafts
A tiny Santa gnome that holds a lip balm and hangs on a crocheted necklace or a keyring. It’s quick, small and uses worsted cotton.
| Skill level | Not rated (simple) |
| Time | About 1 hr (approx.) |
| Sewing | 1/3 · nose |
| Yarn | Worsted cotton (#4) |
| Hook | 4 mm (G-6) |
| Finished size | 5 × 1.5 in / 12.7 × 3.8 cm |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | Stocking stuffers and teens |
| Watch out | Check the lip balm fits before you finish |
Get the free pattern at Nicki’s Homemade Crafts →
19. Gnome Tissue Box Cover by Nana’s Crafty Home
A gnome that covers a standard cube tissue box, with a hat, nose and legs. It’s about 13 inches tall with the hat. A funny, useful gift for a bathroom or a cold-and-flu-season desk.
| Skill level | Not rated |
| Time | 3–4 hrs (approx.) |
| Sewing | 2/3 · hat, nose, legs, pom-pom |
| Yarn | Worsted (#4) + bulky (#5) beard yarn |
| Hook | 6 mm (J-10) |
| Finished size | Fits a 5 × 4 in (13 × 10 cm) cube box; 13 in / 33 cm tall with hat |
| Access | Free on the blog (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | A funny, useful host gift |
| Watch out | Only fits cube-shaped boxes |
Get the free pattern at Nana’s Crafty Home →
20. Christmas Gnome Granny Square by Raffamusa Designs
A 5.5-inch granny square with a gnome on the front, with a video tutorial. Make one for a coaster or a card, or join several for a Christmas pillow or blanket.
| Skill level | Not rated |
| Time | 1–2 hrs per square (approx.) |
| Sewing | 2/3 · nose, hat, shoes |
| Yarn | DK (#3), or Aran with bigger hooks |
| Hook | 4 mm (G-6) + 3.5 mm (E-4) |
| Finished size | 5.5 in / 14 cm square |
| Access | Free on the blog + video (optional paid PDF) |
| Best for | Pillows, blankets, a Christmas wall hanging |
| Watch out | Several small appliqués per square |
Get the free pattern at Raffamusa Designs →
Real examples: which gnome to make for your situation
These are practical picks based on the pattern cards above.
| Your situation | Make this | Why |
|---|---|---|
| “I’ve never made amigurumi.” | #1 Beginner Gnome | Beard and arms are crocheted on, so almost no sewing |
| “I hate sewing.” | #5 No-Sew Squishmas Gnome | True 0/3 sewing |
| “I need 10 small gifts.” | #2 Mini Gnome or #7 Gnome Keychains | Small, quick and uses scrap yarn |
| “I want ornaments that match.” | #8 Raffamusa Gnome Ornament | Round, light, about 3 inches |
| “I want one wow piece for the porch.” | #14 HanJan Gnome | Up to 21.5 inches tall |
| “It’s for a teacher or coworker.” | #17 Gift Card Holder | Useful and done in an evening |
| “My hands hurt with small hooks.” | #15 Gnome Basket | 16 mm hook and jumbo yarn |
| “It’s for a toddler.” | #5 No-Sew Gnome, face embroidered | No hard parts, nothing glued |
Gnome gifts by who you’re giving to
Not sure which gnome fits which person? Use this list. Each pick is based on the pattern cards above.
| Giving to | Make this | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Grandchildren (toddlers) | #5 No-Sew Squishmas Gnome | Soft plush yarn, no sewn-on parts; embroider the face |
| Grandchildren (school age) | #7 Gnome Keychains | Fun for a backpack, three characters to choose from |
| Your mom or mother-in-law | #11 Scandinavian Gnome or #13 Gnorman | Classic shelf decor that comes out every year |
| A daughter or friend with a new home | #15 Gnome Basket | Useful storage that also decorates |
| A teacher | #17 Gift Card Holder | Add a coffee or book store card |
| A coworker or Secret Santa | #18 Lip Balm Holder or #7 Keychain | Small, quick and useful |
| A neighbor | #8 Gnome Ornament | One small ornament on a ribbon, ready to hang |
| The dinner host | #19 Tissue Box Cover or #20 Granny Square coaster | Something for the home, not just the shelf |
Tip: Add a small tag with the gnome’s name and the year. It turns a quick make into a keepsake.
Easy on the hands: gnomes with big hooks
Tiny 2–3 mm hooks and cotton yarn can make your hands and wrists ache after an hour, especially if you crochet every evening in December.
A bigger hook and thicker yarn mean fewer, larger stitches for the same size gnome. That’s less gripping and less counting, and the gnome grows faster.
Choose a pattern that uses a 5 mm hook or bigger:
| Pattern | Hook | Why it’s easier |
|---|---|---|
| #13 Gnorman the Gnome | 5.5 mm | Faux fur base hides uneven stitches |
| #15 Simple Gnome Basket | 16 mm | Jumbo yarn, very few stitches |
| #16 Darling Maple Gnome | 5.5 mm | Bulky yarn, big visible stitches |
| #19 Gnome Tissue Box Cover | 6 mm | Mostly one simple piece |
If the 2 mm Nordic Gnome (#12) is too hard on your hands, make Gnorman (#13) instead. You get a similar tall gnome, about the same height, with a hook almost three times as thick. A hook with a soft, ergonomic handle and a short break every 20–30 minutes also help.
Not sure which hook to use with your yarn? Our amigurumi hook size chart shows what 62 free patterns actually use.
Learn by video: gnomes with a video tutorial
Written patterns can be hard to follow, especially for the first magic ring, a fringe beard or attaching a hat at the right angle.
Watching someone’s hands for 30 seconds often solves what a paragraph of text can’t. Many crocheters learn faster this way, at any age.
Start with a gnome whose designer made a video:
| Pattern | What the video helps with |
|---|---|
| #3 Amigurumi Gnome by Winding Road Crochet | A video series that walks through the basic gnome |
| #5 No-Sew Squishmas Gnome by Darling Maple | A video tutorial for this quick no-sew gnome |
| #16 Gnome Crochet Pattern by Darling Maple | Video help for placing the nose and hair |
| #20 Gnome Granny Square by Raffamusa | A full video tutorial for the square |
If you’ve never made a magic ring, watch the first minutes of the Winding Road video (#3) before you start. Then the written pattern becomes much easier to follow.
Gift timeline: which gnome to make by when
Every year, the same story: a big gnome started too late and a gift still missing its beard on Christmas Eve.
Size and the amount of sewing decide the time, not the cuteness. Plan the big gnomes first and keep the small ones for the last week.
Use this plan for Christmas on December 25:
| Time left before Christmas | Make these | Approx. time each |
|---|---|---|
| 3+ weeks (by Dec 4) | #14 HanJan Gnome, #10 Santa Gnome, #12 Nordic Gnome, #20 granny squares for a pillow | 4–6 hrs or more |
| 2 weeks (by Dec 11) | #3 Gnome Couple, #11 Scandinavian Gnome, #13 Gnorman, #16 Darling Maple Gnome, #9 Gnome on a Swing | 3–5 hrs |
| 1 week (by Dec 18) | #1 Beginner Gnome, #4 Reversible Gnome, #6 Snowman Gnome, #8 Gnome Ornament, #19 Tissue Box Cover | 2–4 hrs |
| Last weekend | #2 Mini Gnome, #5 No-Sew Gnome, #15 Gnome Basket, #17 Gift Card Holder | 1–3 hrs |
| The night before | #7 Gnome Keychain, #18 Lip Balm Holder | About 1 hr |
Mailing gifts to family abroad? Finish them in the “3+ weeks” row, because international post can take two weeks or more in December.
One-evening gnomes: finish tonight
Short on time after work? These gnomes can be finished in about one to two hours (approx.), so you can start after dinner and be done before bed:
- #18 Santa Gnome Lip Balm Holder: about 1 hour, one small sewn nose.
- #7 Christmas Gnome Keychains: about 1–2 hours each, DK yarn.
- #2 Mini Crochet Gnome: about 1–2 hours, 4.5 inches tall.
- #5 No-Sew Squishmas Gnome: about 1–2 hours, no sewing at all.
- #17 Gnome Gift Card Holder: about 1–2 hours, flat and simple.
- #20 Gnome Granny Square: about 1–2 hours per square.
Tip: Lay out your yarn, hook, stuffing and stitch markers before you start. Small gnomes go fast once everything is within reach.
Shopping list: what you need for most gnomes
Check each pattern’s own materials list, but most gnomes on this list use:
- Hat yarn in red, green or gray, in worsted (#4), DK (#3) or bulky (#5).
- Beard yarn: white or gray worsted for fringe beards, or a fuzzy or faux fur yarn for a fluffy beard.
- A little skin-tone yarn for the nose (scrap yarn is perfect).
- A crochet hook in the size the pattern names (2–16 mm here).
- Polyester fiberfill for stuffing.
- Weight for the base: plastic poly pellets or dry beans in a small sealed bag.
- Stitch markers to mark the start of each round.
- A yarn needle and sharp scissors for trimming the beard.
Tip: Most gnomes need very little skin-tone yarn, so one small skein can make the noses for a whole batch. Check the yardage on your pattern.
Tips for a neat crochet gnome
- Trim the beard last. Attach it, then trim with sharp scissors once the gnome is stuffed and standing. You’ll see the real shape.
- Brush fuzzy beards gently. A clean pet brush or soft toothbrush makes a fringe beard look fluffy.
- Weight the base for tall gnomes. Put pellets or beans in a small sealed bag so nothing leaks out.
- Pin the hat before sewing. Use pins or locking stitch markers to check the angle first.
- For babies and toddlers, skip safety eyes, buttons and glue, and choose a gnome with crocheted parts only.
What crocheters say about making gnomes
We read the comments that makers left on the designers’ pattern pages, plus the questions people ask Google about gnomes. The same few problems come up again and again:
- “Where do I attach this?” The most common question is about assembly, not stitches. Several makers say a pattern didn’t tell them where to place the hat or when to stuff. Before you start, read the whole pattern and study the designer’s photos, because placement is often shown in a picture instead of written out.
- “When do I stuff it?” On small gnomes, the opening can get too tight to stuff near the end. If the pattern doesn’t say, stuff a little as you go, before the last few rounds.
- “Where do the beans go?” Makers often ask this with weighted gnomes. The weight goes in the bottom first, then the fiberfill on top. One maker cut a cardboard circle for the base instead, which works well for a gnome that won’t be played with.
- “The stitch count doesn’t add up.” Readers sometimes spot small counting errors in older free patterns, and designers usually answer in the comments. Scroll through the comments before you start, especially on #11.
- “Can I print it?” Many people ask how to print a free pattern. The free version is usually the blog page itself, and the printable PDF is often the paid option.
What makers love: many say they make gnomes in pairs or trios, changing only the beard or hat color, so a small set looks like a planned family.
Make a batch for a craft fair or holiday bazaar
Making one gnome is fun. Making 15 for a Christmas market or a school bazaar can turn into a stressful week if you choose the wrong pattern.
For batches, the best patterns are small, have few pieces and use one yarn weight. Every sewn part you skip saves time on every single gnome.
Pick one of these batch-friendly gnomes and work in stages:
- Best for batches: #5 No-Sew Squishmas Gnome (no sewing), #2 Mini Gnome, #7 Gnome Keychains, #17 Gift Card Holder and #18 Lip Balm Holder.
- Work like an assembly line: make all the bodies first, then all the hats, then all the noses and beards. You’ll get faster and the gnomes will match.
- Keep the colors simple: two or three hat colors with the same beard yarn look like a planned collection on a table.
- Check the selling rules first: each designer sets their own policy for selling finished items. Read it on the pattern page before you make a batch to sell.
Making 12 gift card holders (#17) for a school fundraiser? Crochet all 24 beard pieces in one evening, then all the hats the next. Doing one step at a time is usually much faster than finishing one gnome at a time.
European crafters: what to know before you start
Many free gnome patterns are written for US crocheters, so UK and European makers get stuck on yarn names and stitch terms.
Gnomes are a European Christmas tradition: the Swedish “tomte” and the Norwegian and Danish “nisse.” Some patterns here already think about European makers. Raffamusa (#8, #20) lists US and UK hook sizes, Red Ted Art (#12) is a UK site, and Passionate Crafter (#7) used a yarn from the Dutch store Zeeman.
Before you start, check these points:
- Stitch terms: A US single crochet (sc) is a UK double crochet (dc). Check which terms the pattern uses before you start.
- Yarn names: US worsted (#4) is close to UK/EU Aran. US light worsted or DK (#3) is DK. US bulky (#5) is close to UK chunky.
- Hooks: Every pattern here lists metric sizes (mm), so you don’t need US letter sizes.
- Selling at Christmas markets: If you plan to sell finished gnomes in the EU or UK, two things apply. First, check each designer’s selling policy on their page. Second, a soft toy sold in the EU or UK must follow toy safety rules, including CE or UKCA marking. Gnomes with glued parts, buttons or a pellet base are best sold as decorations, not toys.
A maker in Germany using Aran-weight wool can follow the Make It Sew Scandinavian Gnome (#11, worsted) with a 4–4.5 mm hook and get close to its 10-inch height.
Free crochet gnome patterns FAQ
Is there a free PDF crochet gnome pattern?
Most gnomes here are free to read on the designer’s blog, with an optional paid ad-free PDF. If you want to keep a free copy, you can print the blog page from your browser for personal use.
What is the easiest crochet gnome for beginners?
Jen Hayes’ Beginner Crochet Gnome (#1). The beard and arms are crocheted onto the body, so there’s almost no sewing, and it uses worsted yarn with a 3.5 mm hook.
Can I make a crochet gnome without sewing?
Yes. Darling Maple’s No-Sew Mini Squishmas Santa Gnome (#5) needs no sewing at all. Jen Hayes’ Beginner Gnome (#1) and Snowman Gnome (#6) only need optional buttons.
How long does it take to crochet a gnome?
A mini gnome or keychain takes about 1–2 hours. A 5–10 inch amigurumi gnome takes 3–6 hours. HanJan, the designer of the large 21.5-inch gnome (#14), says hers takes about 2 to 6 hours depending on your pace.
How do I make a crochet gnome beard?
There are three common ways: knot short strands of yarn onto the body (fringe), crochet loop stitches, or use a fuzzy or faux fur yarn. Fringe gives the classic Nordic look. Faux fur is the fastest.
What yarn is best for a crochet gnome?
For most gnomes, worsted acrylic is the easiest choice: it’s cheap, holds its shape and comes in every color. Use DK cotton for light tree ornaments, and bulky or chenille yarn for big, fast gnomes. Faux fur or fluffy yarn works well for beards, but it hides stitches, so it’s harder for beginners.
How do you make a crochet gnome stand up?
Give it a flat, firm base. Many patterns finish the body with a few rounds worked without increases, which makes a flat circle to sit on. Stuff the bottom firmly, and for tall gnomes add a cardboard circle or a small sealed bag of pellets inside the base before you close it.
More Christmas crochet ideas
- 31 free Christmas amigurumi patterns, with Santa, gnomes, penguins and more
- 20 free crochet snowman patterns
- 13 no-sew Christmas amigurumi patterns
Save this list and get new roundups
Christmas crochet season moves fast. We’re adding new hand-checked roundups every week until December, all with pattern cards and checked links.
Save this list for later: pin it to your Christmas crochet board so you can find all 20 gnomes when you’re ready to start.
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