From ornaments to amigurumi plushies, these elf crochet patterns bring a touch of festive joy to your crafting projects.
“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear." - Buddy / Elf
From adorable amigurumi elves to cute ornaments, these elf crochet patterns allow you to get festive and creative. Whether you are crafting for yourself or creating thoughtful gifts for loved ones, these delightful elf crochet patterns are sure to please.
Learn How to Crochet
If you are interested in learning how to crochet, but have never tried it, I recommend the beginners kits from The Woobles. I started with Pierre the Penguin. The kit and included video tutorials make it super easy to learn how to crochet.
What is the History of Santa’s Elves?
The concept of Santa Claus and his elves has its roots in various cultural and folkloric traditions. The modern image of Santa's elves as industrious, small, pointy-eared creatures helping him in his workshop is largely influenced by 19th-century literature and illustrations.
One significant source is Clement Clarke Moore's 1823 poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas," more commonly known as "The Night Before Christmas." This poem helped establish the popular American image of Santa Claus and his workshop at the North Pole. The idea of elves assisting Santa with toy-making and other preparations during the Christmas season became ingrained in popular culture.
Furthermore, Scandinavian folklore has a tradition of small, supernatural beings like the "Tomte" or "Nisse," which are akin to elves and were believed to help with farm chores. These influences likely contributed to the portrayal of Santa's helpers as elves in the North Pole workshop.
In the early 20th century, with the rise of Christmas advertising and illustrations, artists like Haddon Sundblom, who created iconic Coca-Cola Santa images, further solidified the image of Santa's elves as joyful and industrious helpers.
Overall, the image of Santa's elves is a combination of various cultural influences and creative interpretations over the years, blending folklore, literature, and artistic representations into the festive and enduring mythology surrounding Santa Claus.
Who Are the Most Famous Elves?
Here are just a handful of the most famous elves:
Legolas (The Lord of the Rings): Legolas, a skilled archer and warrior, is one of the main characters in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy.
Dobby (Harry Potter): Dobby is a house-elf in J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter" series known for his loyalty to Harry and his unique, endearing personality.
Link (The Legend of Zelda): While not a traditional elf, Link, the hero of Nintendo's "The Legend of Zelda" video game series, is often referred to as an elf due to his pointed ears and connection to the fantasy genre.
Tauriel (The Hobbit): Tauriel is a Sylvan Elf and a skilled warrior introduced in Peter Jackson's film adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit."
Keebler Elves: These fictional elves are associated with the Keebler brand of cookies and snacks. They are depicted as skilled bakers and live in a tree, baking various delicious treats.
Hermey (Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer): Hermey is a character from the classic Christmas TV special "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" who aspires to be a dentist rather than a toymaker elf.
Arwen (The Lord of the Rings): Arwen is an Elven princess and a key character in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth legendarium, appearing in "The Lord of the Rings."
Elrond (The Lord of the Rings): Elrond, a wise and powerful Elf lord, plays a significant role in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" as the ruler of Rivendell.
Thranduil (The Hobbit): Thranduil is the Elvenking of Mirkwood in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit," as well as in Peter Jackson's film adaptation.
Below are 22 of the cutest elf crochet patterns I could find for Christmas.
22 Elf Crochet Patterns for Christmas
1. EASY PATTERN CROCHET CHRISTMAS ELF WITH LONG LEGS CHRISTMAS ELF AMIGURUMI PDF CROCHET TOY PATTERN CHRISTMAS DECOR PATTERN DIGITAL DOWNLOAD
This adorable Toy Elf would make a delightful addition to your home, nursery, or Christmas tree! The little elf has a festive and whimsical appearance with its long legs and floppy arms. The elf's vibrant colors and sweet expression make it a perfect companion for children and adults alike.
The finished amigurumi Elf will measure approximately 12.6 inches (32 cm) tall. This elf crochet pattern is designed for those with basic crochet skills. The 25-page guide is filled with detailed instructions and includes plenty of helpful pictures.
2. ELF CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT
Are you looking for free Christmas ornament crochet patterns? Here is one for a charming little elf. When finished, this little guy will stand about 4.5 inches (12 cm) tall.
This elf crochet pattern is fantastic for using up your scrap yarn.
3. SANTA'S LITTLE HELPER ELF HAT WITH EARS
Whether you are looking for a whimsical hat for a family Christmas photo or going to a party, this elf hat is the perfect choice. To make it extra special, add a jingle bell to the pom-pom.
The hat grows quickly, using simple increases. The intermediate level elf hat pattern is worked from the top down. Included are sizes for all ages, from newborns to adults.
4. CHRISTMAS CROCHET AMIGURUMI PATTERN CHRISTMAS ELVES DOLL (BOY AND GIRL) PDF ENGLISH PATTERN CHRISTMAS ELF CHRISTMAS DECOR CROCHET DOLL ELF
Make a pair of delightful Christmas amigurumi dolls with these elf crochet patterns. The patterns include accessories like overalls, a sundress, a cap, a hat, a gingerbread man, a sleigh, a gift, and a lantern. You get everything you need to create a magical holiday scene.
These crocheted dolls stand on a sturdy frame. This downloadable pattern provides step-by-step instructions and over 200 photos for each doll.
5. PDF PATTERN ONLY ELF MAN AMIGURUMI PATTERN GREAT CHRISTMAS OR HOLIDAY GIFT
Do you love Buddy the Elf? Bring him to life with this elf crochet pattern. Buddy, famously portrayed by Will Ferrell, is known for his cheerful personality and love for all things Christmas. This doll is even holding a bottle of maple syrup.
Once complete, your handmade Buddy the Elf will measure approximately 5 inches tall. The pattern is worked from top to bottom with minimal sewing involved. The pattern recommends using sport weight cotton yarn with a B hook.
6. BULKY & QUICK ELF HAT
This hat isn’t only festive but also quick to make. It is perfect for spreading holiday cheer. This elf hat is crocheted with Bernat Softee Chunky yarn which creates a soft and cozy holiday accessory. With five sizes available, from baby to large adult, everyone in the family can sport their own crochet elf hat.
The hat is worked from the bottom up using a simple half double crochet stitch. The pattern includes a link to a video tutorial helping to ensure you don’t miss a single stitch.
7. THE ELVES PIL AND ASKE
These lovable elves are named Pil and Aske. They are crocheted using a fun and unique yarn called Ribbon. When completed, Pil and Aske will stand tall at about 19.69 inches (50 cm) tall. They are the perfect size for adding a touch of enchantment to your holiday decorations.
The free elf crochet patterns are suitable for beginners.
8. CROCHET ELF ORNAMENT PATTERN, AMIGURUMI ELF KEYCHAIN PATTERN
Here is a cute little elf ornament. This adorable amigurumi elf is wearing a classic striped hat and a mischievous smile. It would make the perfect addition to your Christmas tree or use it as a package decoration.
There are 13 pages of step-by-step descriptions and a lot of pictures. It is an easy pattern suitable for those familiar with basic amigurumi techniques. Finished, the elf ornament will measure close to 6.2 inches (16 cm).
9. CROCHET ELF GNOME PATTERN, CROCHET CHRISTMAS ELF PATTERN
Of course, I had to find a Gnome elf crochet pattern. You can never have enough gnomes. Use this pattern to make both a boy and girl amigurumi Christmas elf. With its festive charm, it's not only a great way to spruce up your home decor but also a thoughtful handmade gift for you and your friends. Legend has it that having these crochet Christmas elves around brings good luck, making them even more special for spreading joy during the holiday season.
Completed, these gnomes will measure about 9.9 inches (25 cm) tall. There are 13 pages of step-by-step descriptions and pictures. It is classified as an easy level Christmas elf crochet pattern.
10. CHRISTMAS SANTA AND ELF BOOTIES
Make everyone in your family some cozy and festive booties using this crochet pattern. You can use the pattern to make either Santa or elf shoes. These booties will not only keep your feet snug but will also add a sprinkle of holiday magic to your every move.
This pattern is designed for intermediate crocheters. The pattern can be customized so you can get the perfect fit.
11. NAUGHTY ELF - TREE DÉCOR
This mischievous, Naughty Elf has got himself stuck in your Christmas tree. The whimsical decoration is just the elf's legs, playfully dangling from a wire hook. It will definitely make everyone smile when they see it.
Designed with beginners in mind, this pattern is perfect for newbies and experienced crocheters alike.
12. RED HEART BABY ELF HAT, LARGE
Get ready for the cutest holiday photos ever with this adorable crochet elf hat. Made with Red Heart Soft yarn in three festive shades, the elf hat is perfect for holiday snapshots.
The free elf crochet pattern includes instructions for a toddler size and child size.
13. CROCHET CHRISTMAS ELVES, PATTERN, PDF, ENGLISH, AMIGURUMI, CHRISTMAS TOY, CHRISTMAS ELF, HANDMADE, CHRISTMAS TIME
This crochet pattern allows you to create your very own adorable elf couple. Completed, the amigurumi elves will measure approximately 11 inches (28 cm) tall. With their cute little faces and festive attire, these little elves will make the perfect addition to your holiday décor.
The PDF file includes detailed instructions on crocheting and assembling all the parts of the toys. You will need to be familiar with chain, single crochet, double crochet, half double crochet, puff stitch, increasing, and decreasing.
14. CHRISTMAS LANTERN WITH A CANDLE CROCHET PATTERN, AMIGURUMI LITTLE GNOME, CHRISTMAS ELF TOY PATTERN
Create a whimsical lantern with a flickering candle and a sweet gnome with this Christmas crochet pattern set. The gnome measures about 8.66 inches (22 cm) tall, while the lantern stands about 11.81 inches (30 cm). The duo captures the essence of Christmas.
The Christmas crochet patterns are written in English using American terminology. With approximately 184 step-by-step photos and 4 videos, this pattern is easy to follow. The lantern is made with a wire frame.
15. ELF SHOE BASKET
This elf shoe basket will add a playful and festive touch to your holiday decor. Fill it with Christmas bulbs or candy. The choice is ours.
The pattern is designed for those with intermediate crochet skills.
16. ELF COCOON BLANKET & HAT
The perfect cozy companions for the holiday season. The download includes both the elf cocoon blanket and matching hat. They are available in sizes from toddler to mens. Included are tips to get the proper sizing.
These elf crochet patterns are suitable for those with intermediate crochet skills. The patterns work up quickly using Bernat Softee Chunky yarn and a 10 mm crochet hook.
17. ELF CROCHET GNOME PATTERN, AMIGURUMI ELF GNOME TUTORIAL
How about making an Elf Crochet Gnome? This whimsical little fellow wants to be part of your holiday decorations.
The completed gnome elf will measure about 6.29 inches (16 cm) tall. Included in the elf crochet pattern are step-by-step instructions and lots of photos.
18. LILY SUGAR 'N CREAM LILY THE CHRISTMAS ELF DOLL
Meet Lily, the Christmas Elf. She is a festive little girl with a heart full of holiday joy. With the help of Lily Sugar'n Cream yarn, Lily will come to life in vibrant shades that capture the spirit of Christmas.
Completed, Lily will measure about 13 inches (33 cm) tall. The pattern is easy to complete and free!
19. CHRISTMAS CROCHET PATTERN PILLOW CHRISTMAS ELF CROCHET PILLOW DIY ELF FARMHOUSE DECOR SANTA HELPER CROCHET CUSHION PATTERN INTARSIA BOBBLE
This modern farmhouse-style pillow will bring a classic vibe to your holiday decor. The elf pillow is made using the traditional red and green Christmas colors. It would be perfect for tossing on a couch or a chair.
The finished cover will fit an 18” square pillow form. The pattern includes written instructions and a graph. The graph is the primary source of instructions.
20. CROCHET PATTERN OLD ELF | AMIGURUMI CROCHET | PDF PATTERN| WRITTEN AND STEP BY STEP PHOTOS
This charming old elf is wise, whimsical, and super cute. He measures about 8.66 inches (22 cm) tall when crafted using the recommended materials.
The pattern is marked as intermediate. Included are instructions for both the elf and the box.
21. CROCHET CHRISTMAS ELF GNOME
Check out this free Christmas Elf Gnome crochet pattern. This adorable gnome is not just a good little helper; he's also known for stirring up a bit of holiday mischief. He may even be sneaking a cookie or two from your jar.
This mischievous little helper will measure about 7 inches (18 cm) when sitting. The elf crochet pattern is perfect for those with an intermediate level of crochet experience.
22. AMIGURUMI PATTERN - CHRISTMAS ELF - ENGLISH VERSION
Make a magical friend that will add a sprinkle of joy to your holidays with this Christmas amigurumi crochet pattern. The playful elf has a whimsical look that is sure to get compliments.
The finished amigurumi elf will stand at approximately 14 inches (36 cm) tall. This elf is not your ordinary crochet project; it comes to life with a wire frame. This way you can pose and display the doll in fun ways.
Crochet elf patterns will add a touch of holiday magic to your Christmas projects. These adorable crochet elves can be used as charming decorations or gifted to someone special.