Crochet a Large Turtle

If you’re looking for a fun and easy crochet project, this large turtle is the perfect choice! In this guide, we’ll explain the steps to create it in a simple style suitable for all skill levels, especially beginners.

Materials and Tools Needed:

• Thick crochet yarn: Two different colors (one for the body and fins, another for the shell).
• Crochet hook: Size 6mm (or any size suitable for your yarn thickness).
• Soft stuffing: Such as polyester fiberfill for a comfortable, plush shape.
• Embroidery needle: For assembling the parts.
• Scissors.
• Plastic safety eyes: Or embroidery thread to add facial details.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Making the Head:

1. Start with a magic ring containing 6 single crochet stitches.
2. Gradually increase the stitches as you did for the body.
3. Continue until you create a circular shape that fits the size of the turtle’s head.
4. Stuff the head with soft material before closing it.

Making the Shell (Top Part):

1. Repeat the same steps as the body to create the shell.
2. Add a different color if you’d like to diversify the design.
3. Once you reach the desired size, add two additional rounds of single crochet (SC) without increasing to give the shell a nice height.

Making the Fins (4 Pieces):

1. Start with a magic ring:
   • Work 6 single crochet stitches into the ring.
2. Round Two:
   • Increase the stitches to a total of 12.
3. Round Three:
   • Work one single crochet stitch in the first stitch and an increase in the next (1SC, INC). Repeat until you have 18 stitches.
4. Final shape:
   • Add two rounds of single crochet without increasing. Finish off and leave a long tail for assembly.

Making the Body (Bottom Part):

1. Start with a magic ring:
   • Work 6 single crochet stitches (SC) into the magic ring.
2. Round Two:
   • Work an increase (INC) in each stitch (i.e., 2 single crochet stitches in the same stitch) for a total of 12 stitches.
3. Round Three:
   • Work one single crochet stitch in the first stitch and an increase in the next (1SC, INC). Repeat until you have 18 stitches.
4. Continue expanding:
   • In each round, increase the number of single crochet stitches between each increase by 1 (e.g., Round Four 2SC, INC, Round Five 3SC, INC…).
   • Stop when you reach the desired size for the turtle’s body.

Final Assembly:

1. Stuff the body and shell well with soft stuffing.
2. Sew the shell onto the body using the embroidery needle.
3. Attach the four fins to the sides of the body.
4. Secure the head at the front and the tail at the back.
5. Add the safety eyes or embroider the eyes and facial details using thread.

Tips for Beginners:

• Choose coordinating, vibrant colors to give your turtle a unique touch.
• If you’re new to crochet, practice stitches on a test piece before starting.
• Enjoy the process and don’t worry about perfection—every stitch is a step toward creativity!

Share Your Creation:

After completing your turtle, don’t forget to share photos of your work on social media! Creativity becomes even more beautiful when shared. 🐢❤️