Simple No Sew Turtle – Free Crochet Pattern

Amigurumi turtles are such a fun project to make! This crochet turtle pattern is no exception! I’ve designed a simple shell for Nala the No Sew Turtle! Like the original, this shell is also no sew and removable! That means you can make interchangeable shell options for your turtle amigurumi!

Check out the original Nala the no sew crochet turtle pattern with a removable flower shell!

I would classify this crochet turtle pattern as “advanced beginner”. It would be helpful to have had some experience with amigurumi before creating this project.

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Free Crochet Pattern for Nala the No Sew Turtle (with Simple Shell)

Abbreviations

st = stitch
sl st = slip stitch
ch = chain
SC = single crochet
SC2tog = single crochet 2 stitches together (invisible decrease is recommended)

Special Stitches

SC2tog (using invisible decrease method): Insert hook into front loop of the first stitch. Insert hook into front loop of second stitch. Yarn over. Draw through the first two loops on hook. Yarn over. Draw through both loops on hook.

Notes

• Checking your gauge is not required for this pattern. Use a hook that is smaller than the size recommended for your yarn weight. This will ensure that your stuffing will not show through the stitches.
• This pattern requires no sewing. The head, legs, and tail are worked directly into the body as you work, rather than sewing later.
• All pieces are worked in the round. Use a stitch marker to indicate the beginning of each round.
• Invisible decreases are recommended. Please see “Special Stitches”.
• Safety eyes and noses pose a choking risk for babies; therefore, if making this toy for a baby, I recommend using yarn, felt, or embroidered details.
• Body and head require stuffing. Stuff each piece as you work to ensure the piece is completely filled. Do not add stuffing to the legs and tail.
• See tutorial photos.

Pattern

Using the hook size indicated in Pattern Specifics above:

Turtle

Use the crochet turtle pattern for Nala the No Sew Turtle to make the Head, Legs, Tail, and Body of the turtle.

Simple Turtle Shell

Using color B (shown as blue):

R1: Begin with 6 SC in a magic ring. (6 sts)

R2: 2 SC in each st around. (12 sts)

R3: *2 SC in next st, 1 SC in next st. Repeat from * around. (18 sts)

R4: *2 SC in next st, 1 SC in each of the next 2 sts. Repeat from * around. (24 sts)

R5: *2 SC in next st, 1 SC in each of the next 3 sts. Repeat from * around. (30 sts)

R6: *2 SC in next st, 1 SC in each of the next 4 sts. Repeat from * around. (36 sts)

R7: *2 SC in next st, 1 SC in each of the next 5 sts. Repeat from * around. (42 sts)

R8: 1 SC in each st around. (42 sts)

In the next round you will be creating the holes for the head, legs, and tail to fit through.

R9: 1 SC in next st, ch 9, sk 5 sts, 1 SC in each of the next 3 sts, ch 7, sk 4 sts, 1 SC in each of the next 4 sts, ch 7, sk 4 sts, 1 SC in each of the next 2 sts, ch 5, sk 3 sts, 1 SC in each of the next 2 sts, ch 7, sk 4 sts, 1 SC in each of the next 4 sts, ch 7, sk 4 sts, 1 SC in each of the next 2 sts.

R10: 1 SC in next st, 5 SC in ch space, 1 SC in each of the next 3 sts, 4 SC in ch space, 1 SC in each of the next 4 sts, 4 SC in ch space, 1 SC in each of the next 2 sts, 3 SC in ch space, 1 SC in each of the next 2 sts, 4 SC in ch space, 1 SC in each of the next 4 sts, 4 SC in ch space, 1 SC in each of the next 2 sts. (42 sts)

R11: *SC2tog, 1 SC in each of the next 5 sts. Repeat from * around. Join with a sl st to beginning. (36 sts)

Cut yarn and fasten off. Weave in ends.

Assembly & Finishing

If embroidering eyes, use black yarn or embroidery floss and embroider eyes on each side of the head, at R2-3.

Dress turtle in the finished shell.

Ad-Free PDF Pattern for Nala the No Sew Turtle

(PDF crochet turtle pattern includes the patterns for Nala the No Sew Turtle, the Flower Shell, and this Simple Shell)

Tips & Tricks

• Use a stitch marker while working in continuous rounds for this crochet turtle pattern.
• Learn the invisible decrease to make your sc2tog decreases blend in with your other single crochet stitches.
• Review this list of amigurumi tips and tricks for more!

Alterations

• Create multiple shell options for this crochet turtle pattern in a variety of colors.
• Use the flower turtle shell pattern from the original Nala the no sew crochet turtle pattern to give your turtle even more options!

More Free No Sew / Low Sew Amigurumi Patterns

Do you love no sew amigurumi crochet patterns? Be sure to check out my other no sew or low sew amigurumi designs.

I hope you enjoyed this no sew crochet turtle pattern! You might also enjoy Echo the Whale, and Chandler the Chicken.