Ariel/Flounder Tree Decorations

Ariel and Flounder Christmas Tree Decorations by Andrew Lucas

Project Overview

These charming knitted Christmas tree decorations feature two beloved characters: Ariel and Flounder. Designed by Andrew Lucas as beginner-friendly knitting projects, these ornaments measure approximately 12 centimeters and are perfect for adding a whimsical touch to holiday displays. The decorations are constructed using basic knitting techniques and can be completed by crafters new to the medium.

What Is Being Made

Two separate three-dimensional knitted character ornaments suitable for hanging on Christmas trees. Each decoration is a small, stuffed knitted figure designed to represent iconic characters, with distinct color schemes and features that bring personality to festive décor.

Ariel Decoration

The Ariel ornament is constructed in sections, beginning with the tail, body, and head worked as one continuous piece. The design uses green wool as the primary color for the tail section, with increases strategically placed to shape the figure. The pattern employs alternating rows of knit and purl stitches to create texture and structure, with increases worked on specific rows to gradually expand the piece from 9 stitches to 17 stitches, forming the characteristic silhouette of the character.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Casting on: The foundation row that creates the initial stitches on the needle
• Increases (inc): Adding stitches to expand the width of the knitted piece, worked by knitting into the back of the loop between two stitches (m1 method)
• Decreases (dec): Removing stitches to shape and reduce the width of the fabric
• Garter stitch (gs): Created by knitting every row, producing a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges
• Stockinette stitch: Alternating knit and purl rows to create a smooth, flat fabric
• Bind and tie (B and T): A finishing technique where yarn ends are threaded through a tapestry needle, passed through remaining stitches, drawn up, and secured with a knot to close openings

Stitches Employed

The pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches suitable for beginners. The primary stitches are knit (k) and purl (p), which form the foundation of the design. These basic stitches are combined in alternating rows to create varied textures throughout the ornament. The garter stitch (continuous knitting) provides structure and texture, while the alternating knit and purl rows create a stockinette appearance. Shaping is achieved through strategic increases and decreases that gradually form the three-dimensional character shape.

Materials Required

The project calls for 3.25mm needles, which are appropriately sized for the double knitting yarn specified. Double knitting wool in multiple colors is essential: green, beige, red, purple, yellow, black, brown, and blue. These colors allow crafters to create detailed features and distinguish different parts of each character. A small amount of polyester stuffing fills the completed knitted pieces to create dimension and shape. Clear thread serves as the hanging mechanism, allowing the finished ornaments to be suspended from tree branches without visible attachment.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner project, these decorations are accessible to knitters new to the craft. The pattern employs only basic stitches and straightforward shaping techniques, making it an excellent introduction to three-dimensional knitted toy construction.