Frosted Fir Tabletop Trio: A Nordic Christmas Knitting Pattern

Bring a whisper of Scandinavian winter to your holiday table with this knitted trio of coasters, a placemat, and a matching ornament, all textured with delicate snowflake motifs. This pattern is a cozy, mindful project that transforms simple yarn into heirloom-quality festive decor. Whether you're an experienced knitter or a beginner looking for a rewarding challenge, this set is designed to be both accessible and satisfying. The finished pieces evoke a rustic Nordic aesthetic, reminiscent of traditional Scandinavian Christmas decorations with a modern, minimalist twist—perfect for displaying together on a wooden table, evoking a cozy, snowy evening by the fireplace.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials. This project uses worsted weight yarn, which gives the finished pieces a soft, textured, and cozy handmade feel. The gauge is not critical for this project, but consistent tension will ensure even pieces.

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in three colors:
  • MC (Main Color): Cream – approximately 150g
  • CC1 (Contrast Color 1): Forest Green – approximately 50g
  • CC2 (Contrast Color 2): Cranberry Red – approximately 50g
• Needles: US 7 (4.5mm) knitting needles, or size needed to obtain gauge
• Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving ends, scissors, and fiberfill (for the ornament)
• Gauge: 20 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch

Abbreviations

Familiarize yourself with these standard knitting abbreviations before starting:

• K = knit
• P = purl
• K2tog = knit two together (right-leaning decrease)
• SSK = slip, slip, knit (left-leaning decrease)
• YO = yarn over (creates an eyelet hole)
• MC = main color (Cream)
• CC1 = contrast color 1 (Forest Green)
• CC2 = contrast color 2 (Cranberry Red)

The Snowflake Chart (Worked over 13 Stitches)

This is the heart of the pattern. The chart creates a raised, lacy star shape in the center of each piece. Work the following 18 rows to create the snowflake motif. Note that the stitch count remains at 15 stitches throughout, as the yarn overs are paired with decreases.

Pro Tip: The yarn overs (YO) create the lacy holes that form the snowflake points. The K2tog and SSK decreases keep the stitch count balanced. If you lose your place, count your stitches—you should always have 15 stitches on your needle after each row.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Coaster (Make 4)

The coaster is a perfect 4-inch square, ideal for holding a warm mug of mulled wine or hot cocoa. The garter stitch border keeps the edges flat and neat.

1. Cast On: With MC, cast on 15 stitches.
2. Work the Chart: Work the Snowflake Chart rows 1-18 once. Remember to start with Row 1 on the right side (RS).
3. Garter Border: After completing Row 18, work in garter stitch (knit every row) for 4 rows. This creates a flat, textured border that prevents curling.
4. Bind Off: Bind off all stitches loosely. A loose bind-off is important to maintain the square shape—if you bind off too tightly, the edge will pucker.
5. Finish: Weave in all ends with your tapestry needle. Block lightly to shape, using a damp cloth and a warm iron (or simply pin to shape and let dry).

Placemat

The placemat is a 12x8-inch rectangle, featuring the snowflake motif in the center with stockinette stitch panels on either side. This piece is perfect for a festive dinner setting.

1. Cast On: With MC, cast on 45 stitches.
2. Garter Border: Work in garter stitch (knit every row) for 6 rows. This creates a sturdy, non-curling edge.
3. Work the Chart with Side Panels: Now you will work the snowflake chart in the center 15 stitches while keeping the 15 stitches on each side in stockinette stitch. Follow this pattern:
   • Row 1 (RS): K15 (side panel), work Chart Row 1 over the next 15 stitches, K15 (side panel).
   • Row 2 (WS): P15 (side panel), work Chart Row 2 over the next 15 stitches, P15 (side panel).
   Continue in this manner, working the chart rows 1-18 in the center while maintaining stockinette stitch (knit on RS, purl on WS) on the side panels. Important: On wrong-side rows, the side panels are purled, and the chart rows are also purled (as indicated in the chart).
4. Final Garter Border: After completing Chart Row 18, work in garter stitch for 6 rows.
5. Bind Off: Bind off all stitches loosely.
6. Finish: Weave in ends. Block to a rectangular shape, pinning the corners to ensure they are square.

Ornament

This charming 3-inch gathered pouch makes a delightful addition to your tree or a thoughtful handmade gift. The cream body features the snowflake motif, topped with a forest green garter stitch band and a cranberry red hanging loop.

1. Cast On: With MC, cast on 15 stitches.
2. Work the Chart: Work the Snowflake Chart rows 1-18 once.
3. Color Change: Switch to CC1 (Forest Green). Knit 2 rows (garter stitch). This forms the decorative top band.
4. Decrease Row: On the next RS row, knit two together (K2tog) across all stitches. You will have 8 stitches remaining.
5. Gather: Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail (at least 12 inches). Thread the tail through a tapestry needle, then thread it through the remaining 8 stitches on your knitting needle. Slip the stitches off the needle and pull the tail tight to gather the top of the ornament into a pouch.
6. Secure: Secure the gathered top with a few small stitches, then sew the side seam closed using the mattress stitch or whip stitch. This creates a small pouch.
7. Stuff: Turn the pouch right side out and stuff lightly with fiberfill. Do not overstuff—you want it to be soft and squishy.
8. Close: Sew the bottom opening closed with the remaining yarn tail. Weave in the end.
9. Hanging Loop: Create a hanging loop by chaining 15 stitches with CC2 (Cranberry Red) using a crochet hook, or simply cut a 6-inch length of CC2 yarn and tie it into a loop. Attach the loop to the top of the ornament with a few small stitches. Weave in all ends.

Finishing Touches

Weave in all ends carefully with your tapestry needle. Block all pieces flat to enhance the stitch definition. The coaster and placemat can be lightly steamed, but avoid stretching the snowflake motif—you want the lacy holes to remain open and defined. The finished set is designed to be displayed together, creating a cohesive Nordic tablescape that will impress your holiday guests.

This pattern is a wonderful way to practice yarn overs and decreases while creating beautiful, functional decor. The snowflake motif is forgiving and rewarding, and the finished pieces will be cherished for years to come. Happy knitting, and may your holiday table be filled with warmth and handmade charm!