Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

WE FIGURED OUT WHAT WE WANT IN A BOOK…..

by

gutenberg-cro-book-0509

http://www.gutenberg.org/files/16605/16605-h/16605-h.htm

In an earlier blog entry, I asked readers to comment on what their ‘dream’ crochet book would be like.  I have my own preferences, but clearly my wish list is not complete.  You came up with many more useful, if perhaps unattainable from any crochet artist or publisher, wish list.  At least, I think we’ve come pretty far from the crochet book pictured above!

I’ll give you the summary here.  See what you think.  Please feel free to comment further so we can fine tune this list.  I DO plan on sending a summary of our Wish List to a long list of publishers of crochet books.  Really!  So, if you have an opinion, strong or otherwise (and I think many of us have rather strong feelings here), post your comments.  I’ll do another summary and round of comments til we get this thing properly honed.  These comments are not necessarily in list of importance.  It might be even more helpful if we could prioritize, so feel free to rank your ‘wishes’. Here goes:

WHAT CROCHETERS WANT IN A CROCHET BOOK    SUMMARY 05/09

1. STITCH COUNTS AT END OF ROW
2. PHOTOS OF MULTIPLE VIEWS, COLOR PHOTOS, SCHEMATICS, SYMBOLS, CHARTS – LACK OF COLOR PHOTOS IS A DEAL BREAKER
3. LAY FLAT OR SPIRAL BINDING
4. SIZE – SLIGHTLY LARGER THAN A PAPERBACK NOVEL (only one person commented on size and I’d actually prefer a larger book)
5. PAPER QUALITY – MATTE, GLOSSY (too much glare), LAMINATED (can be wiped off)
6. PATTERNS – ORGANIZE BY
TYPE
SKILL LEVEL
SEASON
YARN WT
THEME
(Are there other categories we might want listed?)
7. SKILL LEVEL – DESCRIPTION (I have a problem with this as skill levels are actually highly subjective much of the time.  Having a list of stitches used in the project and comments like ‘tailored’ , indicating the necessity of increasing and decreasing, might be more valuable than an arbitrary ‘easy, medium, difficult’ designation.)
8. STITCH ILLUSTRATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS – ENLARGED PHOTOS OR ILLUSTRATIONS HELP A LOT
9. AFFORDABILITY OF MATERIALS (See Item #17 below.)
10. QUICK PROJECTS (What about a mix of quick and not so quick?)
11. HOOK SIZE IN #, LETTER, OR MM (for international conversions)
12. YARN – FIBER, WPI, SIZE, WEIGHT, SUBSTITUTIONS (Problem so often is that by the time a book is published, the yarn is no longer in production.)
13. INSTRUCTIONS FOR LEFTIES

14. CATEGORIES: Not that we necessarily want all of these in the same book, I think.
BABY
DOILY
GRANNY
GARMENTS
RUNWAY
TRENDY
HOUSEHOLD/DECOR

15. BOOK, WEBSITE, ERRATA, QUESTIONS, LINKS, YOUTUBE, RESOURCE SECTION, SUPPLIES – in this digital era, it would be most helpful for us to be in touch with the author for clarifications. How practical is this??

16. ABBREVIATION CHART, GLOSSARY, LIST OF SUPPLIERS, RESOURCES, ETC.

17. EACH ITEM CAN BE PICTURED IN SPLURGE YARN AND ECONOMICAL YARN.

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CUT AND PASTE A SECTION YOU WANT TO COMMENT ON AND POST IT TO THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW. I’LL DO ANOTHER SUMMARY OF ALL COMMENTS SOON!

More Crochet?

Comments

  1. I want very detailed step-by-step color photographs (as in Japanese pattern books) and charted as well as traditionally written out patterns.
    Uh.. Laminated?! I am not willing to pay the extra cost of laminated book pages and spiral bindings are not that important to me. People can always photocopy that page of a book they own and put it in a paper protector for their personal use. I agree, color photographs are essential.

    I like it when they give a variety of good yarn choices instead of one specific brand.

  2. Hi jd, It’s me!! My dealbreaker for a book (or magazine for that matter) if clothing items-must have larger sizes. I like having material options. I don’t like buying yarn without feeling it and highly specialized yarn is too expensive to buy with out using, I want WPI and weight. The scale of 1-5 that the yarn companies are using are not alway accurate-a ‘4’ in one yarn doesn’t work up as the same as ‘4’ in red heart-found out to my disadvantage-I now have a sweater too big and too much work to frog the whole thing.

  3. I like the idea of the laminated book so I can mark what step I’m on. Also, if the writer could triple check their pattern to make sure it’s correct would be nice. I get so mad when I paid money for a pattern and then end up having to figure it out myself.

  4. Thanks for the list, I like that ! I’m dreaming of self-publishing a book someday, so I’ll keep that handy.. 😛
    I’ve never really had any spiral-bound book in my hands and wonder how it holds in time..but I really love the idea !

  5. 11. HOOK SIZE IN #, LETTER, OR MM (for international conversions)

    I love all the ideas I read. I am thinking that this one may be a typo, because it would make more sense to have #, Letter, AND mm listed. The comment about paying more for laminating was a valid one. What if the book was made with the pages three hole punched on the left side and also so that the pages can be taken out of the book easily so they can be worked with. With the holes punched in, the pages could then be put into a binder. JMHO

  6. I like a book which cover the classic as well as new, a doily category, especially flower: Irish crochet, flowers and leaves decorating something modern, like a cell phone case, something lacy, I like things which are quick, but I also like something lacy which I can work on a bit everyday. I guess I am basically more interested in thread.

Have you read?

Turtle Crochet Patterns That Are Slow, Sweet, And Totally Worth Making

There is something about turtle crochet patterns that makes me instantly happy. Maybe it is the little round shells, maybe it is the flappy sea turtle fins, or maybe it is because turtles have that calm “I’ll get there when I get there” energy that I very much relate to after a long week of deadlines, dishes, teenagers needing lifts, and Aloo looking at me as if I have personally failed him by not opening the back door fast enough.

Crochet turtles are one of those lovely projects that work for almost every kind of maker. If you love quick market makes, a no sew crochet turtle is the kind of pattern you can work up in an evening with a cup of tea beside you. If you prefer baby gifts, turtle loveys and soft turtle amigurumi are gentle, meaningful handmade presents. And if you are a scrap-yarn saver — and really, what crocheter isn’t? — turtle appliques are a brilliant way to use up those little green, blue, brown, cream, and coral leftovers hiding in the basket.

This roundup includes a mix of free crochet turtle patterns, sea turtle crochet patterns, no sew turtle amigurumi, turtle appliques, loveys, and practical turtle-themed crochet projects. Some are wonderfully beginner-friendly, some are better suited to confident amigurumi makers, and a few are perfect if you are looking for something a little different from the usual plushie. I have also included a couple of CraftGossip and CraftBits turtle crochet links because we have had some sweet turtle projects over the years that deserve another little swim around the craft pond.

One quick note before you start: if you are making crochet turtles for babies or toddlers, skip plastic safety eyes and embroider the features instead. Safety eyes are not always safe for little ones, especially once a handmade toy is loved, tugged, chewed, and dragged around the house.

FREE Chunky Crochet Turtle Pattern – CraftBits

This free crochet turtle pattern from CraftBits is a lovely one to add if you are looking for a soft, chunky amigurumi turtle that feels modern but still very handmade. The plush-style shape makes it a great choice for gifts, market tables, or a sweet little comfort toy for older children. I especially like this one for crocheters who want a free turtle crochet pattern that looks cuddly without being overly complicated.

Chunky Crochet Turtle Amigurumi Pattern – CraftGossip Store On Etsy

If you would rather have the polished printable version, this chunky crochet turtle pattern is also available through the CraftGossip Store on Etsy. It is a handy option for makers who like having a tidy PDF pattern saved in their crochet library, especially if you plan to make several turtles for gifts, craft fairs, or grandkids who suddenly all “need” one in a different colour. The chunky yarn style gives the finished turtle that squishy, modern amigurumi look that is so popular right now.

Free And Easy Turtle Crochet Patterns For Amigurumi Lovers

No Sew Crochet Turtle Amigurumi Plush – The Friendly Red Fox

This no sew crochet turtle pattern is a great one for anyone who loves the look of plush amigurumi but does not love sewing on tiny limbs. It is designed to work up quickly, making it a lovely option for craft markets, birthday gifts, or those “I need something cute by tomorrow” moments. The chunky yarn gives it a squishy modern look that younger makers and kids tend to adore.

Crochet Turtle Pattern – The Mary Jay

This sweet crochet turtle pattern has a cheerful, beginner-friendly feel and includes video support, which is always helpful when you are making amigurumi shapes for the first time. It is a lovely fast project for using plush yarn and would make a cute desk buddy, backpack friend, or handmade gift topper. I especially like this one for crocheters who want a turtle pattern that feels approachable rather than fiddly.

Fred The Sea Turtle – CJ Design Blog

Fred is one of those crochet sea turtle patterns that has proper personality. This free pattern includes a video tutorial and is designed as a quick make, so it is a good choice if you want a sea turtle amigurumi that does not turn into a week-long commitment. The finished shape has that lovely flat sea-turtle look, making it especially nice for ocean-themed gifts or nursery decor.

No-Sew Crochet Turtle Pattern – Stitch By Fay

This no sew turtle crochet pattern is a newer design and a nice option if you want something fresh for market prep or gifting. The pattern uses separate pieces that are joined as you work the body, so you get the benefit of a neat finish without the dreaded sewing pile at the end. It has a sweet little trim detail on the flippers that gives the finished turtle a bit of extra charm.

Nala The No Sew Turtle – The Nicole Chase

Nala is a clever no sew turtle crochet pattern with a removable shell, which gives it a little extra play value and personality. It works beautifully as a garden turtle or sea turtle depending on your colour choices, and the optional shell variations make it easy to customize. This is a great choice for crocheters who want a turtle amigurumi pattern that feels a little more special than a basic plushie.

Amigurumi Turtle – All About Ami

This crochet amigurumi turtle has a classic handmade look with a beautifully rounded shell and contrast details. It is a lovely project if you enjoy neat shaping and want a turtle that looks sweet in a whole rainbow of colours. The surface crochet shell detail adds just enough texture to make it interesting without feeling overcomplicated.

No Sew Mini Turtle Amigurumi – Okie Girl Bling ’n’ Things

This mini turtle amigurumi is perfect for anyone who loves tiny, quick crochet makes. Because it is no sew, it is also a nice choice for batch-making little turtles for markets, party favours, classroom rewards, or stocking stuffers. Use chenille yarn for a plush version or cotton for a smaller keychain-style turtle.

Mini Turtle Amigurumi – DIY Fluffies

This mini turtle crochet pattern is beginner-friendly and can be made with different yarn weights depending on the size you want. It is a handy scrap yarn project and works well when you want a small amigurumi that does not require a huge amount of stuffing or finishing. I like this one for little gifts tucked into care packages or beach-themed gift baskets.

Small Amigurumi Turtle – Knits And Knots By Ame

This small crochet turtle pattern is a good pick if you prefer a more traditional amigurumi style with minimal seaming. It uses two colours, one for the body and one for the shell, which makes it easy to personalize with soft naturals, brights, pastels, or ocean blues. It is a sweet pattern for confident beginners who want to practise shaping without taking on a large plushie.

Turtle Lovey Crochet Patterns For Baby Gifts

Turtle Lovey Pattern – Swecraftcorner

This crochet turtle lovey is soft, snuggly, and made for little hands to hold. It combines a turtle amigurumi head and body with a comforter-style blanket, making it a thoughtful handmade baby shower gift. If you are making it for a baby, embroidered eyes are the safer option and still look beautifully sweet.

Pebbles The Turtle Lovey CAL – Sarah Dee Crochet

Pebbles is a turtle lovey crochet-along, which is lovely if you enjoy being guided through a project in stages. The design has that handmade heirloom feeling, especially if you choose soft nursery colours or beachy tones. It is a good option for adventurous beginners who want to try a larger baby gift without feeling completely on their own.

Crochet Turtle Applique Patterns For Blankets, Bags, And Nursery Decor

Ocean Friends Crochet Appliqués – Repeat Crafter Me

This ocean applique set includes a crochet turtle along with a starfish, jellyfish, and seahorse, making it a lovely choice for under-the-sea projects. The turtle applique would be adorable stitched onto a baby blanket, beach bag, cushion, or classroom display. This is also a great pattern to keep in your stash if you like quick crochet pieces that can dress up a plain project.

Crochet Sea Turtle Applique And Granny Square – Maria’s Blue Crayon

This sea turtle applique is especially nice if you are planning an ocean-themed crochet blanket. The post includes both the turtle applique and a granny square idea, so you can turn one small motif into a much bigger project. I love this kind of pattern for baby blankets because it feels playful without being overly bright or busy.

Baby Sea Turtle Appliqué Crochet Pattern – PlanetJune

This baby sea turtle applique is a paid crochet pattern, but it is beautifully suited to polished projects where you want the turtle to sit flat and neat. Appliques like this are perfect for decorating blankets, wall hangings, tote bags, or framed nursery art. It is a good option if you want your finished project to look a little more detailed and professional.

Turtle Applique Free Pattern – Rebekah Haas

This free crochet turtle applique has a simple, friendly shape that works well for children’s projects. It would be cute on a library bag, beach towel, baby blanket, or handmade card front if you like mixing crochet with paper crafts. Patterns like this are also brilliant for using up the oddments of green yarn that never seem quite big enough for anything else.

Crochet Turtle Appliques – Natalina Craft

This turtle applique pattern gives you a sweet family of turtles in different sizes, which makes it especially useful for blankets and nursery decor. You can make a whole little turtle parade across the corner of a blanket or add one small turtle to a hat, jumper, or tote. It is a cheerful scrap yarn project and a nice way to add personality to plain crochet pieces.

Turtle Crochet Patterns From CraftGossip And CraftBits

Turtle Memory Game Crochet Pattern – CraftGossip

This CraftGossip feature is a fun turtle crochet idea with a playful twist. Instead of being just a plushie, it turns the turtle theme into a memory game, which makes it a lovely handmade gift for children. It is a good reminder that crochet turtle patterns do not always have to be softies — they can be interactive, useful, and clever too.

Free Crochet Pattern – Christmas Pudding Turtle – CraftGossip

This Christmas pudding turtle is wonderfully quirky and very CraftGossip in the best possible way. It combines festive crochet with a kawaii turtle shape, making it a sweet little holiday make for anyone who likes their Christmas crafts with a wink. It would be adorable as a handmade ornament, stocking stuffer, or tiny festive shelf sitter.

Sea Turtle Soap Saver – CraftBits

This CraftBits sea turtle soap saver is a practical crochet turtle project rather than a plushie, which is why I love having it in the mix. It is a simple handmade bathroom item and would be lovely paired with handmade soap for a gift basket. If you enjoy crochet projects that are cute but still useful, this is the turtle pattern to try.

Tips For Choosing The Best Turtle Crochet Pattern

If you want a quick make, choose a no sew crochet turtle pattern in plush or chenille yarn. These usually work up faster and have that soft, modern squish factor that sells well at markets.

If you are making a baby gift, look for a turtle lovey or soft amigurumi pattern and embroider the eyes instead of using plastic safety eyes. Soft cotton or baby-safe yarns are lovely choices, and washable yarn is always a blessing because babies are beautifully messy little creatures.

If you are decorating a blanket, bag, or nursery wall hanging, a crochet turtle applique is often the best choice. Appliques are flatter, faster, and easier to stitch onto finished projects.

If you are using scrap yarn, mini turtles and turtle appliques are your best friends. You can make shells in greens, browns, rainbow colours, florals, speckles, or even holiday colours if you fancy a turtle with a bit of attitude.

Final Thoughts On Crochet Turtle Patterns

Turtle crochet patterns are one of those happy little corners of the crochet world where cute, calming, and practical all meet. You can make a tiny turtle in an hour, a turtle lovey for a new baby, a sea turtle applique for an ocean blanket, or a squishy no sew turtle for your next market table.

And honestly, there is something rather lovely about a handmade turtle. They are slow, steady, comforting, and full of character — a bit like the best kind of craft project. Not rushed, not fussy, just quietly adorable and very satisfying to finish.