How to Crochet a Ruffled-Top Christmas Stocking

Materials & tools you'll need

Step 1 — Make your granny squares

Choose the size of granny square that suits how big you'd like your finished stocking to be, and work all your squares to that same size. Small squares (about 4 × 4 inches) are complete after 5 rounds, medium squares (about 6 × 6 inches) after 7 rounds, and large squares (about 8 × 8 inches) after 9 rounds. Alternate between light and dark green as you work through your squares so you have enough of each colour to build the checkerboard pattern in the next step.

Step 2 — Join the squares in a checkerboard pattern

Lay out your squares in the checkerboard arrangement you want, alternating light and dark green, starting from the bottom left corner of the stocking shape. Using a slip stitch, join each square to its neighbours along the edges, working counterclockwise around the body of the stocking as you connect everything into one piece. Close the top edge the same way with slip stitch, but leave a 4-stitch gap open along that top edge — this gap is where the ruffled top will be worked in the next step.

Step 3 — Work the ruffled top

Switch to your I/5.5mm hook and, starting at the left side of the 4-stitch gap left in Step 2, work multiple double crochets into each stitch along the top edge. The more double crochets you work into each stitch, the fuller and taller your ruffle will be — aim for a balance that suits the size of your stocking and the weight of your yarn. Work evenly all the way across the gap, then turn and work back across in the opposite direction to build up the ruffle's fullness. Fasten off the light green yarn and weave in the ends.

Step 4 — Add a hanging loop and finish

Using dark green yarn, chain 10 to 12 stitches, depending on how large you'd like the finished loop to be. Attach the chain to the base of the stocking with a slip stitch, joining it into a circle. Fasten off and weave the tail end through the loops of the chain several times to reinforce it, then secure with a knot. Block your finished stocking to even out the stitches and shape, and weave in any remaining ends. Add embellishments or a personal touch here if you'd like — this is a great spot to make the stocking your own.

Frequently asked questions

What materials are needed for a handmade stocking with a ruffled top?
You'll need light green and dark green worsted-weight yarn, approximately 600 yards total, a G/4.0mm crochet hook for the body, an I/5.5mm crochet hook for the ruffled top, a tapestry needle, stitch markers, and scissors.

How do I join the granny squares in the checkerboard pattern?
Arrange your finished squares in the checkerboard layout you want, starting from the bottom left corner. Working counterclockwise around the body of the stocking, connect each square along its edges with a slip stitch, then close the top edge the same way — leaving a 4-stitch gap open for the ruffled top.

How do I work the ruffled top on the stocking?
Starting at the left side of the 4-stitch gap, work multiple double crochets into each stitch along the top edge — more double crochets per stitch gives a fuller ruffle. Work evenly all the way across the gap, then turn and work back across in the opposite direction before fastening off.

How do I add a hanging loop to the stocking?
Chain 10 to 12 stitches, then attach the chain to the base of the stocking with a slip stitch to form a circle. Fasten off, then weave the tail end through the loops of the chain several times and secure it with a knot.

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