Partridge in a Pear Tree Christmas Table Decoration a Knitting Pattern Inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas

A pear-fect perch for your holiday table, TeaCosyFolk's design concept for the season’s most charming centrepiece.

After the wonderful response to my knitted Victorian Lamp Post table decoration, I wanted to create another festive centrepiece; this time inspired by one of the most iconic Christmas carols: The Twelve Days of Christmas. I’ve always loved the idea of being showered with increasingly impractical gifts from a devoted 'true love,' and of course, the first gift is the most memorable: a partridge in a pear tree.

For me, a pear tree at Christmas sounds delightful. But it’s the partridge in the pear tree that I’m bringing to life in this new knitted table decoration. It’s a whimsical, symbolic gift, one that’s sparked plenty of interpretations. Some say the 'true love' represents spiritual devotion, with the partridge symbolising Christ and the pear tree representing the cross. Others suggest it’s simply a poetic pairing of fruit and poultry; perhaps even a nod to a hearty holiday meal!

When you picture a partridge in a pear tree on Christmas cards, the tree is always in fruit. It’s visually striking; those golden pears hanging like baubles and it adds a magical touch to the winter season. So yes, my knitted pear tree will be fruiting. It’s traditional, colourful, and far more festive than a bare winter tree.

To build the structure, I’m using a wooden kitchen towel holder and a 25cm polystyrene hoop; both sourced from Amazon. The hoop allows the partridge to sit in the tree, giving the whole piece a wreath-like feel, which ties beautifully into classic Christmas décor. The tree will be anchored in a terracotta plant pot, with the towel holder forming the trunk.

For the foliage, I’m aiming for texture and knitted-in leaves; no endless stitching at the end! I want the top of the tree to feel lush and full, with just enough detail to evoke a fruiting pear tree without overwhelming the design.

This project is already sparking joy, and yes; I’ll be humming The Twelve Days of Christmas as I knit. It’s a carol full of charm and curiosity. I mean, what would you do with ten lords a-leaping?









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