Hey there, fellow crocheters! Today, I'm thrilled to share with you a project that's close to my heart: the Ginkgo Leaf.
Inspired by the fan-shaped leaves of this ancient tree, this pattern is perfect for beginners looking to branch out into nature-inspired crochet. You'll be leafing through this project in no time - it takes just about 45 minutes to complete!
Did you know that ginkgo trees are living fossils, virtually unchanged for over 200 million years? Now, with this pattern, you can create your own little piece of prehistoric beauty.
Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a unique project, let's dive in and create some leafy magic together!
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Pin this Ginkgo Leaf pattern and add a touch of ancient elegance to your crochet collection!
Details & Usage
Your crocheted Ginkgo Leaf will turn out to be a delightful little piece, measuring about 1.6 inches (4 cm) long and 6.3 inches (1 cm) at its widest point.
These charming leaves are incredibly versatile and can be used in so many creative ways! String a few together to make a unique autumn garland or use them as eye-catching coasters for your coffee table. They make fantastic bookmarks, adding a touch of nature to your reading experience. Sew them onto bags, hats, or scarves for a quirky, botanical accessory.
For the crafty home decorator, try arranging a few leaves in a shadow box for a 3D wall art piece. They're perfect for scrapbooking or card-making projects too.
Planning an autumn wedding? These ginkgo leaves could make beautiful, handmade place cards or cake decorations. You could even attach them to hair clips for a whimsical hair accessory. The possibilities are as endless as the ginkgo tree is ancient!
Materials Needed
- Yarn - Loopara 4ply combed cotton (Yellow 46 and Brown 88)
- Hook - 2.0mm
- Flower Rod - 30cm long (No.2)
- Iron wire - 0.3mm diameter
- Hot melt adhesive
- Stitch marker
- Scissors
- Cotton stuffing
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch - chain
- sc - single crochet
- dc - double crochet
- hdc - half double crochet
- tr - treble crochet
- sl st - slip stitch
- inc - increase
- dec - decrease (specifically, sc2tog - single crochet 2 together)
- Magic ring
- Working with wire
- Working in the round
Crochet Ginkgo Leaf Pattern
How to Make Large Leaf (Make 6)
Round 1: Start by adding wire to your work for structure. Chain 2, then create a magic ring. Work 10 double crochets into the magic ring, leaving a 20cm tail. Slip stitch to join, then chain 1.
Round 2: Work 10 single crochets around. Slip stitch to join.
Round 3: Chain 3, then work a treble increase. Make 3 treble increases. Next, work (treble, chain 2, single crochet), then (single crochet, chain 2, treble). Work 3 more treble increases. Finish with a treble increase, chain 3, and slip stitch to join.
Tips: When adding wire in Round 1, ensure it's secure but not too tight to allow for shaping. The magic ring and initial double crochets form the leaf's base. Keep them snug for a neat center. In Round 3, the increases and varied stitches create the leaf's distinctive fan shape. Maintain even tension for a symmetrical leaf.
How to Make Medium Leaf (Make 4)
Round 1: Begin by adding wire to your work for structure. Chain 2, then create a magic ring. Work 10 double crochets into the magic ring, leaving a 20cm tail. Slip stitch to join, then chain 2.
Round 2: Start with a double crochet increase. Work 3 double crochet increases. Next, work (double crochet, chain 1, slip stitch), then (slip stitch, chain 1, double crochet). Work 3 more double crochet increases. Finish with a double crochet increase, chain 2, and slip stitch to join.
Tips: Remember, consistent tension across all leaves will ensure they're uniform in size and shape, contributing to a balanced final piece. Take your time with each leaf to achieve the best results.
How to Make Small Leaf (Make 1)
Round 1: Start by adding wire to your work for structure. Chain 2, then create a magic ring. Work 10 double crochets into the magic ring, leaving a 20cm tail. Slip stitch to join, then chain 2.
Round 2: Begin with a double crochet increase. Work 3 double crochet increases. Next, work (single crochet, slip stitch), then (chain 1, single crochet). Work 3 single crochet increases. Finish with a single crochet increase, chain 1, and slip stitch to join.
Tips: The change from double crochet to single crochet increases gives this leaf its smaller, more delicate appearance. Remember, this small leaf adds variety to your Ginkgo branch. Take care to match its tension with the larger leaves for a cohesive final piece.
How to Make Ginkgo Nut (Make 3)
Round 1: Start with a magic ring. Chain 1, work 5 single crochets into the ring. Slip stitch to join, then chain 1.
Round 2: Work 5 single crochet increases (2 sc in each stitch). Slip stitch to join, chain 1.
Round 3: Repeat (single crochet, single crochet increase) 5 times. Slip stitch to join, chain 1.
Rounds 4-6: Work 15 single crochets around. Slip stitch to join, chain 1. Repeat this for rounds 5 and 6.
Round 7: Repeat (single crochet, single crochet 2 together) 5 times. Stuff the nut with fiberfill. Slip stitch to join, chain 1.
Round 8: Work 5 single crochet 2 together to close the nut. Slip stitch to join and fasten off.
Tips: The single crochet should be denser and fuller to avoid exposing the cotton and affecting the appearance.
Crochet Four-leaf Clover Assemble
Step 1: Start with one large leaf, one medium leaf, one small leaf, and one ginkgo nut. Place the floral wire between them, making sure the wire tip is hidden.
Step 2: Tightly wrap the wire with floral tape or thread, securing all elements together.
Step 3: Wrap about 2cm more, then add another large leaf. Wrap it tightly against the stem.
Step 4: Continue wrapping for a few more turns, then add another large leaf.
Step 5: Wrap about 3cm more, then add two pre-wrapped medium leaves and one pre-wrapped large leaf with a ginkgo nut.
Step 6: Continue wrapping for about 3cm, then add a pre-wrapped set of two large leaves, one medium leaf, and a ginkgo nut.
Step 7: Wrap all the way to the end of the stem.
Step 8: Finish by adding a small amount of glue to secure the wrapping. Make sure the thread end is not loose.
Tips: Cut off the thread ends of the broken leaves several times in advance, and then wrap the wire with the reserved thread. After the fruit is crocheted, the wire should be inserted into the bottom of the fruit, and the wire should be wrapped with the reserved thread. When wrapping the leaves and fruits, you can wrap the bottom twice more to avoid exposing the wire and affecting the appearance.
Variations
While the traditional ginkgo leaf shape is beautiful, why not push your crochet skills a bit further?
You could try creating a multi-lobed leaf by adding extra increases, or experiment with a more elongated form for a modern twist. How about a miniature version for delicate projects, or an oversized leaf for a statement piece?
For a fun challenge, try incorporating different stitches like popcorn or bobble stitches to add interesting texture. When it comes to embellishments, think outside the box! You could use metallic thread to add a subtle shimmer, perfect for holiday decorations. Or, consider needle felting small details onto the leaves for a mixed-media approach. For a playful touch, attach small crocheted ginkgo nuts to your leaves.
Don't forget about color - while green is classic, ginkgo leaves in shades of blue, purple, or even rainbow colors could make for a unique, artistic interpretation. The ginkgo leaf is your canvas - let your creativity flourish!
What's Next?
Calling all crochet lovers! Just hooked up a gorgeous Ginkgo Leaf? It's time to let it shine on social media! Snap a photo of your leafy creation and share it on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, or Twitter using #GinkgoCrochetMagic. Whether you've made a single leaf or a whole branch, your work could be the inspiration someone needs to start their own project. Share your color combinations, size variations, or how you're incorporating these ancient-inspired leaves into your decor. Let's create a virtual autumn with our handmade ginkgo leaves! Your post might be the spark that ignites a fellow crafter's creativity. Together, we can weave a tapestry of shared experiences and crochet joy. Ready to make your Ginkgo Leaf famous?
