Row 1 (Foundation Chain & Core – Green/Red):

• With Green, ch 81.
• Starting in 2nd ch from hook: sc in next 20 chs.
• Switch to Red: sc in next 40 chs.
• Switch to Green: sc in last 20 chs. Fasten off. (80 sc total)

Row 2 (Expansion Layer 1 – Off-White):

• Join Off-White in the first st. Ch 2 (counts as first dc).
• Work 2 dc in each st across. (160 dc total)

Row 3 (Expansion Layer 2 – Off-White):

• Ch 2 (counts as first dc), turn.
• Work [1 dc in next st, 2 dc in following st] across. (240 dc total)
• This extra row drastically increases the width and creates a much larger spiral density. Fasten off.

Row 4 (Outer Edge – Gold):

• Join Gold yarn in the first st.
• Ch 1, sc in each st across the outer edge for a pronounced metallic border. Fasten off.

Assembly

• Manually twist the strip into a tight, oversized double helix.
• Thread a hanging loop through the top point using leftover gold yarn.

hThis crochet technique relies on stitch multiplication to force a flat strip into a 3D spiral helix without needing internal wire or shaping.

The Mechanics of the Curl

• Stitch Density Mismatch: When you force more stitches into the outer row than exist in the foundation row, the edge expands rapidly while the core stays fixed.
• Helix Formation: Because the outer rim is physically longer than the base row, it twists around itself to accommodate the excess fabric, creating the natural corkscrew effect.

Step-by-Step Construction Method

Once completed, manually twist the piece between your fingers to align the coils before adding the top hanging loop.

1. Base Chain & Core Row (Length & Structure)

The starting chain determines the final length of the ornament.

Single crochet (sc) stitches create a dense, rigid central axis so the spiral maintains its structure when hung.

2. Expansion Rows (Creating the Spiral)

2 dc in every stitch: Creates a soft, relaxed twist (standard spiral).

3 dc in every stitch: Produces a very tight, compact corkscrew shape.

Adding a secondary expansion row (e.g., alternating 1 dc, 2 dc) increases both the overall width and the drama of the spiral.

3. Trim & Edging (Definition)

Working slip stitches or single crochets along the outermost edge with contrasting/metallic yarn locks the shape and emphasizes the outer spiral ridge.

4. Manual Setting