7 Unique Turtle Free Amigurumi Patterns You Need to Try

Dr. Partho Kumar Shaha (DVM)

fact checked & review by

Dr. Partho Kumar Shaha
Veterinarian (DVM)

This post was created with help from AI tools and carefully reviewed by a human. For more on how we use AI on this site, check out our Editorial Policy.

If you’ve ever fallen down the rabbit hole of amigurumi patterns, you know how easy it is to get stuck in a loop—especially when every search seems to bring up yet another turtle!

But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re looking for something whimsical, cuddly, or totally unexpected, these 7 unique amigurumi patterns will shake up your crochet routine in the best way possible.

Turtle Amigurumi Free Pattern

Crocheting a tiny turtle might sound tricky, but trust me, it’s easier than you think. If you can do basic stitches, you can make this adorable little buddy. Let’s go step by step.

What You Need

Before starting, gather these supplies:

  • Yarn – Green for the body, brown for the shell. Choose soft, medium-weight yarn.
  • Crochet Hook – Use a size that matches your yarn. If unsure, check the yarn label for recommendations.
  • Stuffing – Polyester fiberfill works best to make the turtle soft and squishy.
  • Safety Eyes – These make the turtle look super cute. You can also embroider the eyes if you prefer.
  • Tapestry Needle – This is a blunt needle with a big hole, perfect for sewing yarn pieces together.
  • Scissors – To cut yarn cleanly after finishing stitches.

Got questions about Crochet + Turtle Inspirations? This post has the basics, turtle-style. These Adorable Crochet Turtles Are Taking Over — Here’s How to Make Your Own

Step 1: Make the Turtle’s Head

1.1 Start with a Magic Ring

A magic ring (or magic circle) is a way to begin crochet projects in the round.

  1. Hold the yarn end in your palm, wrap it around two fingers to form a loop.
  2. Insert your hook through the loop, pull up a loop, and chain 1 to secure it.
  3. Crochet 6 single crochets (SC) into the loop.
  4. Pull the yarn tail to close the ring tightly.

1.2 Increase to Make a Round Shape

To make the head bigger:

  1. In the next round, increase in each stitch (do 2 SC in each stitch). You’ll now have 12 stitches.
  2. In the next round, increase every second stitch (SC in one stitch, then 2 SC in the next). Now you have 18 stitches.
  3. Repeat, increasing every third stitch until you reach 24 stitches.

1.3 Add the Safety Eyes & Stuffing

  • Attach safety eyes between rounds 4 and 5, about 4 stitches apart.
  • Lightly stuff the head with fiberfill. Don’t overstuff, or it will lose shape.

Step 2: Crochet the Turtle’s Shell (Body)

2.1 Start the Top of the Shell

  1. Make a magic ring, and crochet 6 SC into it.
  2. In the next round, increase in each stitch (12 stitches total).
  3. Continue increasing every round until you have 30 stitches.
  4. Switch to brown yarn after 5 rounds (for a two-toned shell).

2.2 Crochet the Belly (Bottom Part)

  • Make a second flat circle just like the shell but keep it slightly smaller (stop at 24 stitches).

2.3 Join the Top and Bottom Together

  • Hold both circles together (brown on top, green on the bottom).
  • Crochet around the edge, joining them together.
  • Stuff lightly before closing completely.

Step 3: Make the Flippers and Tail

3.1 Flippers (Make 4)

  1. Chain 5 stitches.
  2. Start in the second chain from the hook, and work 1 SC in each chain (4 stitches total).
  3. Turn, work back along the other side of the chain, increasing slightly to make an oval shape.
  4. Fasten off and weave in the ends.

3.2 Tail (Make 1)

  1. Start with a magic ring and work 3 SC inside.
  2. Increase in the next rounds to make a tiny triangle.
  3. Fasten off and leave a long tail for sewing.

Want to understand Pond + Turtle Inspirations better? Here’s a breakdown that makes sense. These 10 Outdoor Turtle Pond Ideas Will Make You Want to Build One Today

Step 4: Assemble the Turtle

  1. Sew the Head to the Shell – Position it in the front and attach it firmly.
  2. Attach the Flippers – Two on each side, slightly below the shell.
  3. Sew the Tail – A small detail at the back, but it makes the turtle even cuter.

Extra Tips for a Cuter Look

  • Use pastel colors for a soft, plushy effect.
  • Place the eyes closer together for an extra baby-like face.
  • Add a tiny blush with pink embroidery thread or fabric paint.
  • Make a smaller version and attach a keychain to carry it around.

That’s it! Your cute little turtle is ready. Want to make a whole family of turtles? Try different sizes and colors for fun variations!

Ninja Turtle Amigurumi

Crocheting a ninja turtle amigurumi is as fun as it sounds. If you love TMNT or just want a cool project, this one’s for you. It’s simple, beginner-friendly, and can be customized for any of the four ninja turtles.

What You Need

Before we start, gather these supplies:

  • Yarn – Green for the body, brown for the shell, and your choice of color for the mask (red, blue, orange, or purple).
  • Crochet Hook – Use a size that matches your yarn.
  • Stuffing – Polyester fiberfill for a soft and squishy turtle.
  • Safety Eyes – Gives the ninja turtle a cool look.
  • Tapestry Needle – For sewing the pieces together.
  • Scissors – To trim yarn neatly.

Step 1: Crochet the Head

1.1 Start with a Magic Ring

  1. Make a magic ring and crochet 6 SC into it.
  2. Pull the yarn tail to close the ring.

1.2 Increase for a Round Shape

  1. In the next round, crochet 2 SC in each stitch (12 stitches total).
  2. In the next round, increase every second stitch (18 stitches).
  3. Keep increasing every few stitches until you reach 24 stitches.
  4. Work a few rounds of 24 stitches without increasing to shape the head.

1.3 Attach the Safety Eyes & Stuff the Head

  • Insert the eyes between rounds 4 and 5, about 4-5 stitches apart.
  • Lightly stuff the head so it holds shape but stays soft.

Got questions about Fun + Turtle Inspirations? This post has the basics, turtle-style. 15 Adorable Clay Turtle Ideas You Can Make at Home

Step 2: Make the Shell (Body)

2.1 Crochet the Top of the Shell

  1. Start with a magic ring, work 6 SC inside.
  2. Increase in each stitch until you have 30 stitches.
  3. After a few rounds, switch to brown yarn to make it look like a shell.

2.2 Crochet the Belly (Bottom Part)

  • Make another circle like the shell but stop at 24 stitches to keep it slightly smaller.

2.3 Join the Shell Pieces Together

  • Hold the two circles together (brown on top, green on the bottom).
  • Crochet around the edge to join them.
  • Stuff lightly before sealing completely.

Step 3: Make the Arms, Legs & Tail

3.1 Arms (Make 2)

  1. Chain 5, turn back, and work 4 SC.
  2. Increase slightly to make a rounded edge.
  3. Fasten off and leave a long tail for sewing.

3.2 Legs (Make 2)

  1. Start with 5 chains, turn back, and crochet 5 SC.
  2. Make the second row a bit wider to shape the foot.
  3. Fasten off.

3.3 Tail (Make 1)

  1. Magic ring with 3 SC inside.
  2. Increase slightly to shape a tiny triangle.
  3. Fasten off and leave a tail for sewing.

Step 4: Make the Ninja Mask

  1. Choose red, blue, purple, or orange yarn for the mask.
  2. Chain 12-14 stitches, long enough to wrap around the head.
  3. Work 1 row of single crochet (SC) for a band look.
  4. Sew it onto the turtle’s face, right above the eyes.
  5. Leave two small yarn ends hanging at the back to look like tied fabric.

Step 5: Assemble the Ninja Turtle

  1. Sew the Head to the Shell – Position it firmly in the front.
  2. Attach the Arms and Legs – Two on each side.
  3. Sew the Tail – A small detail, but it makes a difference.
  4. Attach the Mask – Secure it in place and adjust if needed.

Extra Customization Idea

  • Add a small felt belt around the shell to match TMNT style.
  • Use black thread to stitch a simple smile.
  • Make all four turtles and display them together.

Amigurumi Sunflower Turtle

This amigurumi is a perfect mix of nature and cuteness. A tiny turtle with a sunflower shell? That’s pure crochet magic. It’s fun to make and even better to gift. Let’s create one step by step.

Looking for real answers on Turtle Inspirations + Vacations? This guide's got you covered. 7 Turtle Adventures You Didn’t Know Existed

What You Need

  • Yarn – Green (body), yellow (petals), brown (shell center)
  • Crochet Hook – Match your yarn size
  • Stuffing – Soft fiberfill to shape the turtle
  • Safety Eyes – Makes the turtle extra adorable
  • Tapestry Needle – For sewing pieces together
  • Scissors – To trim yarn ends

Step 1: Make the Head

1.1 Start with a Magic Ring

  1. Wrap the yarn around your fingers to make a loop.
  2. Insert the hook through the loop, pull up a stitch, and chain 1 to secure.
  3. Crochet 6 SC into the loop.
  4. Pull the yarn tail to close the ring.

1.2 Increase the Head Size

  1. Next round: 2 SC in each stitch (12 stitches).
  2. Next round: Increase every second stitch (18 stitches).
  3. Continue increasing until you reach 24 stitches.
  4. Work 3-4 rounds without increasing to shape the head.

1.3 Add Eyes & Stuffing

  • Attach safety eyes between rounds 4 and 5, about 4 stitches apart.
  • Lightly stuff the head before closing the last round.

Step 2: Make the Sunflower Shell

2.1 Crochet the Shell Center (Brown)

  1. Start with a magic ring, work 6 SC inside.
  2. Increase in each stitch until you have 30 stitches.
  3. Work a few rounds without increasing to shape the shell.

2.2 Make the Petals (Yellow)

Each petal is made separately and attached around the shell.

  1. Chain 6 stitches, turn.
  2. SC into the second chain from the hook, HDC in the next, DC in the next two, HDC in the last stitch.
  3. Slip stitch back into the shell.
  4. Repeat all around the shell for a full sunflower effect.

Step 3: Crochet the Belly

  • Make a second circle like the shell but stop at 24 stitches (slightly smaller).
  • This will be the turtle’s belly.

Step 4: Make the Legs & Tail

4.1 Flippers (Make 4)

  1. Chain 5, turn.
  2. Work SC in each stitch, increasing slightly at the ends to round the shape.
  3. Fasten off, leaving a tail for sewing.

4.2 Tail (Make 1)

  1. Magic ring with 3 SC inside.
  2. Increase slightly to make a tiny triangle.
  3. Fasten off, leaving a tail for sewing.

Step 5: Assemble the Sunflower Turtle

  1. Sew the Head to the Shell – Position the head in the front.
  2. Attach the Flippers and Tail – Sew them evenly on the sides and back.
  3. Attach the Belly to the Shell – Join both pieces together with a simple crochet seam.
  4. Fix the Petals – Adjust them if needed for an even sunflower shape.

Want to understand Draw + Turtle Inspirations better? Here’s a breakdown that makes sense. How to Draw a Snapping Turtle: Easy and Creative Drawing Ideas

Extra Tips for a Cuter Look

  • Use blush pink thread to add a tiny smile.
  • Make two shades of yellow for a layered petal effect.
  • Add a tiny bee charm to one of the petals for extra cuteness.

No Sew Crochet Turtle Amigurumi Plush

Sewing can be a hassle, especially when making small crochet pieces. This no-sew turtle amigurumi is perfect for beginners who love plushies but hate attaching tiny parts. Everything is crocheted together as you go.

What You Need

  • Yarn – Green (body), brown (shell)
  • Crochet Hook – Match your yarn size
  • Stuffing – Soft fiberfill for a plushy look
  • Safety Eyes – Optional, but makes it cuter
  • Scissors – To trim yarn ends

Step 1: Crochet the Head and Body as One Piece

1.1 Start with a Magic Ring

  1. Wrap the yarn around your fingers to form a loop.
  2. Insert the hook, pull up a stitch, and chain 1 to secure.
  3. Crochet 6 SC into the loop.
  4. Pull the yarn tail to tighten.

1.2 Increase to Shape the Head

  1. In the next round, crochet 2 SC in each stitch (12 stitches).
  2. Next round: Increase every second stitch (18 stitches).
  3. Next round: Increase every third stitch (24 stitches).

1.3 Stuff and Continue to the Body

  • Place safety eyes around rounds 4-5.
  • Lightly stuff the head before moving to the body.

1.4 Crochet the Body Without Breaking the Yarn

  1. Continue working even rounds without increasing.
  2. After about 5-6 rounds, switch to brown yarn for the shell.
  3. Work 3 more rounds in brown.

Step 2: Make the Flippers (Crocheted Directly Onto the Body)

2.1 Front Flippers (Make 2)

  1. Find the right spot on the body where the flippers should go.
  2. Attach yarn and chain 5 stitches.
  3. Work back along the chain: SC, HDC, DC, HDC, SC.
  4. Slip stitch to secure.

2.2 Back Flippers (Make 2, Slightly Smaller)

  1. Attach yarn lower on the body.
  2. Chain 4, work SC, HDC, HDC, SC.
  3. Slip stitch to finish.

Step 3: Shape the Shell and Close the Body

  • Switch back to green yarn to create a simple belly circle.
  • Continue decreasing rounds while stuffing as you go.
  • When there are only 6 stitches left, fasten off and weave in the ends.

Step 4: Add a Tiny Tail (Optional, But Cute!)

  1. Find the back center of the turtle.
  2. Attach yarn, chain 3, then SC back into the base.
  3. Fasten off.

Got questions about Outdoor Turtle Pond + Turtle Habitat? This post has the basics, turtle-style. 7 Hidden Mistakes That Can Harm Your Turtle Pond

Extra Tips for a Cuter Look

  • Use velvet or chenille yarn for an extra soft plush effect.
  • Make a bigger version with chunky yarn.
  • Add blush details with embroidery or fabric paint.

Amigurumi Turtle Keychain Free Pattern

A tiny turtle that fits in your palm? Perfect. A tiny turtle you can carry everywhere as a keychain? Even better. This amigurumi turtle keychain is small, quick to make, and doesn’t require sewing. Let’s get started!

What You Need

  • Yarn – Green (body), brown (shell)
  • Crochet Hook – Use a small size for tight stitches
  • Stuffing – Just a pinch for a firm shape
  • Safety Eyes – Or embroider tiny eyes
  • Keychain Ring – To attach your turtle
  • Tapestry Needle – For weaving in ends
  • Scissors – To cut yarn cleanly

Step 1: Crochet the Turtle’s Head and Body in One Piece

1.1 Start with a Magic Ring

  1. Wrap yarn around your fingers to form a loop.
  2. Insert hook, pull up a stitch, and chain 1 to secure.
  3. Crochet 6 SC into the loop.
  4. Pull the yarn tail to tighten.

1.2 Increase to Shape the Head

  1. Next round: 2 SC in each stitch (12 stitches).
  2. Next round: Increase every second stitch (18 stitches).
  3. Next round: Increase every third stitch (24 stitches).
  4. Work 3 rounds of 24 SC to keep the shape.

1.3 Attach the Eyes and Stuff the Head

  • Place safety eyes between rounds 4 and 5, about 4 stitches apart.
  • Lightly stuff the head before continuing to the body.

1.4 Continue Directly to the Body (Shell)

  1. Without cutting yarn, start decreasing slightly for the body.
  2. After 3 rounds, switch to brown yarn for the shell.
  3. Work 2-3 more rounds before closing off the body.
  4. Lightly stuff before sealing the last stitches.

Step 2: Crochet the Flippers and Tail (Attached While Crocheting)

2.1 Front Flippers (Make 2)

  1. Identify where to place the flippers on the side of the body.
  2. Attach yarn and chain 5 stitches.
  3. SC in each chain back to the body.
  4. Slip stitch to secure.

2.2 Back Flippers (Make 2, Slightly Smaller)

  1. Attach yarn lower on the body.
  2. Chain 4 stitches, SC in each back to the body.
  3. Slip stitch to finish.

2.3 Tail (Tiny but Cute!)

  1. Find the back center of the turtle.
  2. Attach yarn, chain 3, SC back to the body.
  3. Fasten off.

Got questions about Outdoor Turtle Pond + Turtle Habitat? This post has the basics, turtle-style. 11 Simple & Eco-Friendly Materials for Your First Turtle Pond

Step 3: Attach the Keychain Ring

  1. Thread a small loop of yarn through the top of the turtle’s shell.
  2. Pull the loop through the keychain ring.
  3. Tie a tight knot and weave in the ends.

Extra Tips for a Cuter Look

  • Use pastel colors for a softer look.
  • Add a small embroidered smile below the eyes.
  • Make multiple turtles and mix colors for a cute set.

Tiny Turtle Amigurumi Free Pattern

A tiny turtle amigurumi is quick, easy, and ridiculously cute. It fits in your palm, takes minimal yarn, and works up in under an hour. Perfect for beginners, gifts, or just because you love turtles. Let’s crochet one!

What You Need

  • Yarn – Green (body), brown (shell)
  • Crochet Hook – Use a small size for tight stitches
  • Stuffing – Just a pinch to keep it soft but firm
  • Safety Eyes – Or embroider tiny black dots for extra cuteness
  • Tapestry Needle – For weaving in yarn ends
  • Scissors – To trim yarn neatly

Step 1: Crochet the Head and Body as One Piece

1.1 Start with a Magic Ring

  1. Wrap the yarn around your fingers to form a loop.
  2. Insert your hook, pull up a loop, and chain 1 to secure.
  3. Crochet 6 SC into the loop.
  4. Pull the yarn tail to tighten.

1.2 Increase to Shape the Head

  1. Next round: 2 SC in each stitch (12 stitches).
  2. Next round: Increase every second stitch (18 stitches).
  3. Work 2 rounds of 18 SC to keep the shape.

1.3 Add Eyes & Stuff the Head

  • Insert safety eyes between rounds 3 and 4, about 3 stitches apart.
  • Lightly stuff the head before continuing.

1.4 Continue Directly to the Body (Shell)

  1. Without cutting the yarn, start working in brown for the shell.
  2. Work 3 rounds in brown without increasing.
  3. Slightly decrease stitches as you go to make a rounded shell.
  4. Lightly stuff the body before closing the last round.

Step 2: Crochet the Tiny Flippers & Tail (Attached While Crocheting)

2.1 Front Flippers (Make 2)

  1. Identify where the flippers should go on the side of the body.
  2. Attach yarn and chain 4 stitches.
  3. SC in each chain back to the body.
  4. Slip stitch to secure.

2.2 Back Flippers (Make 2, Slightly Smaller)

  1. Attach yarn a bit lower on the body.
  2. Chain 3 stitches, SC in each back to the body.
  3. Slip stitch to finish.

2.3 Tail (Tiny and Adorable!)

  1. Find the back center of the turtle.
  2. Attach yarn, chain 2, SC back into the body.
  3. Fasten off.

Trying to get a handle on Habitat + Turtle Inspirations? This page has all you need to know. 10 DIY Snapping Turtle Tank Ideas That Look Amazing

Extra Tips for a Cuter Look

  • Use pastel yarn for a soft, plushy effect.
  • Make a rainbow of tiny turtles by switching colors.
  • Embroider a tiny blush under the eyes for an extra sweet look.

Sea Turtle Amigurumi

Sea turtles are majestic, adorable, and now… crochet-able! This amigurumi captures the beauty of a real sea turtle in a tiny, cuddly form. It’s slightly different from a regular turtle because of its flipper shape and shell texture. Let’s crochet one!

What You Need

  • Yarn – Green (body), brown (shell), light beige (belly)
  • Crochet Hook – Small size for tight stitches
  • Stuffing – Just enough to keep it firm but squishy
  • Safety Eyes – Or embroider small eyes for a softer look
  • Tapestry Needle – For weaving in yarn ends
  • Scissors – To trim yarn neatly

Step 1: Crochet the Head

1.1 Start with a Magic Ring

  1. Wrap yarn around your fingers to form a loop.
  2. Insert your hook, pull up a loop, and chain 1 to secure.
  3. Crochet 6 SC into the loop.
  4. Pull the yarn tail to tighten.

1.2 Increase to Shape the Head

  1. Next round: 2 SC in each stitch (12 stitches).
  2. Next round: Increase every second stitch (18 stitches).
  3. Work 2-3 rounds of 18 SC to shape the head.

1.3 Add Eyes & Stuff the Head

  • Insert safety eyes between rounds 3 and 4, about 4 stitches apart.
  • Lightly stuff the head before moving on.

Step 2: Crochet the Shell (Body)

2.1 Shell Top (Brown)

  1. Start with a magic ring, crochet 6 SC inside.
  2. Increase in each stitch until you have 30 stitches.
  3. Work 3 rounds of 30 SC for a slightly domed shape.

2.2 Belly (Light Beige or Green)

  • Crochet another circle like the shell but stop at 24 stitches.
  • This will be the turtle’s belly.

Step 3: Crochet the Flippers & Tail

Unlike land turtles, sea turtles have long, flipper-like limbs for swimming.

3.1 Front Flippers (Make 2, Larger)

  1. Chain 7 stitches, turn.
  2. Work SC, HDC, DC, DC, HDC, SC back along the chain.
  3. Slip stitch to attach to the body.

3.2 Back Flippers (Make 2, Smaller)

  1. Chain 5 stitches, turn.
  2. Work SC, HDC, HDC, SC back along the chain.
  3. Slip stitch to attach.

3.3 Tail (Tiny but Essential!)

  1. Chain 3 stitches, SC back into the body.
  2. Fasten off.

Step 4: Assemble the Turtle

  1. Sew the Head to the Shell – Attach it slightly forward for a natural look.
  2. Attach the Flippers – Place the larger flippers in front, smaller ones at the back.
  3. Join the Shell and Belly – Crochet around the edges to seal it. Stuff lightly before closing.

Extra Tips for a Cuter Look

  • Use variegated yarn for a natural sea turtle shell effect.
  • Add a tiny stitched smile for extra charm.
  • Make a bigger version with chunky yarn for a plushy feel.

About Author

Muntaseer Rahman started keeping pet turtles back in 2013. He also owns the largest Turtle & Tortoise Facebook community in Bangladesh. These days he is mostly active on Facebook.