Crochet Tiny Turtle Amigurumi: A Quick & Easy Pattern

Updated at: 26/03/2025

Dive into the adorable world of amigurumi with this quick and easy crochet pattern for a tiny turtle! Perfect for beginners or seasoned crocheters looking for a satisfyingly small project, this charming little turtle is surprisingly simple to create. Imagine the delightful possibilities: a keychain companion, a quirky desk decoration, or even a unique embellishment for a handmade gift. This pattern utilizes basic crochet stitches and requires minimal materials, making it ideal for crafting on the go or squeezing in a quick project during downtime.

The sweet little turtle’s endearing features and compact size will win you over instantly. From its delicate shell to its tiny, endearing flippers, each stitch contributes to its overall cuteness. Ready to embark on this fun and rewarding crafting journey? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Chunky or super chunky plush yarn (two colors)
  • Hook to match yarn
  • Polyfill
  • 5 mm safety eyes
  • Scissors
  • Yarn needle
  • Stitch markers
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise young children when they are around small crocheted items to prevent choking hazards. Tiny amigurumi pieces are not suitable for children under 3 years old.
  • Use only high-quality, safe yarn intended for amigurumi or toys. Avoid using yarns with loose fibers or small parts that could easily detach and pose a choking risk.
  • Secure all ends firmly to prevent unraveling. Loose threads can be a strangulation hazard for young children.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Create the Turtle Shell

    • 8 single crochet in a magic ring (or chain 2, 8 sc in first chain)
    • 8 increases (2 sc in each stitch from round 1) - 16 stitches total
    • (sc, inc) x 8 - 24 stitches total
    • 24 single crochet - Add stitch markers to the first and last stitches in the back loops only
    Round 4: 24 single crochet - Add stitch markers to the first and last stitches in the back loops onlyRound 4: 24 single crochet - Add stitch markers to the first and last stitches in the back loops onlyRound 4: 24 single crochet - Add stitch markers to the first and last stitches in the back loops only
    Create the Turtle Shell
    • 24 single crochet in the front loops only (change color before last stitch)
    • 24 single crochet in the back loops of round 4 (work over the tails from the color change)
    Round 6: 24 single crochet in the back loops of round 4 (work over the tails from the color change)
    Create the Turtle Shell

  2. Create the Turtle Legs and Body

    • Make legs - (2 sc, dec) x 4, (bubble stitch, 2 sc, dec) x 4, 3 sc
    • (2 dec, sc) x 4 - 12 stitches
    • 6 decreases - close and cut yarn
    • Stuff the body
    Stuff the bodyStuff the bodyStuff the bodyStuff the body
    Create the Turtle Legs and Body

  3. Create the Turtle Head

    • Round 1: 6 sc in magic ring
    • Round 2: 6 increases - 12 stitches
    • Round 3: 12 sc
    • Attach safety eyes between rounds 2 and 3
    Head: Attach safety eyes between rounds 2 and 3Head: Attach safety eyes between rounds 2 and 3Head: Attach safety eyes between rounds 2 and 3Head: Attach safety eyes between rounds 2 and 3
    Create the Turtle Head
    • Round 4: 6 decreases - close with slip stitch
    • Stuff the head
    Stuff the head
    Create the Turtle Head

  4. Assemble the Turtle

    • Sew head to body using tails from magic rings
    • chain 2, slip stitch into first chain, slip stitch into body, close and cut yarn
    Make the tail: chain 2, slip stitch into first chain, slip stitch into body, close and cut yarn
    Assemble the Turtle

Read more: DIY Fluffy Duck Plushie Tutorial: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Use a stitch marker in the last stitch of each round.
  • Twist the new yarn color over the old color before bringing it through for a neat color change.
  • Work slowly and carefully when working over bubble stitches.
  • Leave out the tail from the magic ring on the head to help with attaching it to the body.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Tension

Reason: Uneven tension throughout the crochet creates a misshapen turtle, with some parts appearing stretched or compressed.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension by using a consistent amount of pressure while working each stitch.

2. Incorrect Stitch Count

Reason: Losing track of stitches leads to a turtle with incorrect sizing or missing pieces like the legs or head.
Solution: Use stitch markers to help keep track of your progress and count your stitches regularly.

3. Stuffing Too Tightly or Loosely

Reason: Over-stuffing creates a misshapen turtle that's hard and lumpy, while under-stuffing results in a floppy and poorly formed one.
Solution: Firmly but evenly stuff the amigurumi, avoiding bunching and ensuring all areas are filled equally.

FAQs

What yarn weight is best for this tiny turtle amigurumi?
A lightweight yarn like DK (8 ply) or sport weight is recommended for the best results. Using a heavier yarn will make the turtle too bulky, while a lighter yarn might be too difficult to work with.
I'm a beginner crocheter. Is this pattern suitable for me?
Absolutely! This pattern uses only basic crochet stitches like single crochet, increase, and decrease. It's designed to be beginner-friendly, providing a great project to build confidence.