Handmade Scandinavian Gnome — Acorn Hat

Since time immemorial, a great oak has stood at the edge of the forest — perhaps the oldest living tree around. Many have tried to count its years, only to lose track somewhere past the seven-hundredth. One thing is certain: a mighty oak with a wide-spreading crown, basking on a sunny glade, is a fine home for any forest dweller.

And long ago, a gnome made his home in this giant oak. From a distance you might easily mistake him for a fallen autumn acorn — he always wears an acorn-shaped hat. That is most likely why everyone calls him Gnome Acorn Hat.

He is known throughout the neighbourhood as a welcoming host who treasures the comforts of home. All who have visited the friendly gnome speak with admiration of his bright and spacious dwelling, his warm hospitality, and his generous table.

On cool autumn mornings, Acorn Hat can often be spotted beneath the falling leaves of his oak, savouring a cup of warming herbal tea.

Yet no one would call him a homebody. The red-bearded Acorn Hat is often seen in the forest, and he never sets out without his wicker basket, brimming with bright rowan berries, fragrant cones and other autumn treasures.

And as a gnome who loves warmth and cosiness, he throws on a snug knitted vest over his big acorn hat. With his bushy beard and woollen waistcoat, Acorn Hat has nothing to fear from the autumn chill.

Sometimes his walks stretch on past dark. And then, on quiet forest paths, you may glimpse a warm glow — that is kind Acorn Hat, lighting his kerosene lantern to find his way home.