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An Introduction from Patricia to Your Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle
Hello, my wonderful crochet companions, Patricia Poltera here! I'm just so thrilled to share my latest creation with you: the Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle amigurumi pattern. Isn't she a darling? With her plush, cuddly body and those sweet pink blossom spots on her shell, Shelly is designed to bring a little splash of joy and handmade warmth into your world. I’ve poured a lot of love into making this pattern clear and enjoyable, aiming for that signature detailed finish we all adore.
I'm just so delighted to share this Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle pattern with you all, completely free. Crafting these little friends is such a passion of mine, and seeing them come to life in your hands is the greatest reward. It's your wonderful enthusiasm, your kind comments, and the ways you choose to support my work (perhaps by sharing this pattern with a friend or visiting my Pattern Parlour!) that keep my crochet hooks merrily clicking away on new designs. So, thank you, from the bottom of my heart. Let's get our yarn ready!
Materials You'll Need for Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle
To create your very own Shelly, you'll want to gather these supplies. I've based this on using a lovely plush chenille-style yarn, which gives Shelly her wonderfully soft and huggable feel!
Yarn:
- Main Color (MC): Creamy White – approx. 150g of a bulky weight (CYC 5 or 6) chenille or velvet style yarn (e.g., Bernat Blanket, Hobbii Honey Bunny, Premier Parfait Chunky).
- Accent Color (AC): Petal Pink – approx. 50g of the same type of bulky weight chenille or velvet style yarn.
Pro Tip: Chenille yarn can sometimes "worm" or unravel at the ends. Securing your starting and ending tails well, perhaps with a tiny knot or by weaving them in very thoroughly, is a good idea!
Hooks & Notions:
The Absolute Essentials:
- Crochet hook: Size 5.0 mm (H-8) or 5.5 mm (I-9) – or whichever size gives you a nice, tight fabric with your chosen chenille yarn so the stuffing doesn’t peek through.
- Two 18-20 mm black safety eyes (consider "galaxy" or glitter eyes if you can find them for that extra sparkle seen in the inspiration!)
- Polyester fiberfill stuffing: A generous amount to make Shelly plump and cuddly.
- Yarn needle (tapestry needle): For assembling and weaving in ends. Look for one with a larger eye for bulky yarn.
- Scissors.
- Stitch markers (a contrasting piece of yarn works perfectly too!).
My 'Game Changer' Recommendations (Optional, but oh-so-helpful!):
- Locking Stitch Markers: These are fantastic for chenille yarn as they won't slip out as easily as split-ring markers.
- Sharp Embroidery Needle: For adding the delicate pink "eyelash" details – a sharper needle can navigate plush yarn more easily than a blunt tapestry needle for finer details.
- Long Doll Needle: Can be very helpful for attaching the head securely through the stuffing.
- Pins: For positioning pieces like the scutes and flippers before sewing – essential for symmetrical placement!
Skills Required & Techniques Demystified for Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle
This pattern is best suited for Intermediate crocheters. While the stitches themselves are basic, working with chenille yarn, shaping the shell components, and the assembly require a bit of patience and experience. But don't you worry, I'll guide you through!
Key Crochet Techniques Used:
- Magic Ring (MR): The neatest way to start pieces worked in the round.
- Single Crochet (sc): The primary stitch used for amigurumi.
- Increase (inc): Working two single crochet stitches into the same stitch.
- Invisible Decrease (dec): Decreasing by working through the front loops only of the next two stitches – this gives the smoothest finish for amigurumi.
- Slip Stitch (sl st): Used for joining and finishing.
- Chain (ch): Basic crochet chain.
- Working in Continuous Rounds: Most parts are worked without joining rounds, using a stitch marker to mark the beginning of your round.
- Basic Sewing Skills: For assembling the turtle.
Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms):
- MC: Main Color (White)
- AC: Accent Color (Pink)
- MR: Magic Ring
- sc: Single Crochet
- inc: Increase (2 sc in the same stitch)
- dec: Invisible Decrease (sc next 2 stitches together using front loops only)
- sl st: Slip Stitch
- ch: Chain
- st(s): Stitch(es)
- FLO: Front Loop Only
- BLO: Back Loop Only
- Rnd(s): Round(s)
- [...]: Repeat instructions within brackets as directed
- (...): Total number of stitches at the end of the round
A little tip I always share: When working with chenille, it's more about feeling the stitches than seeing them sometimes. Trust your hook!
A Note on Photos & Your Unique Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle
Every handmade amigurumi is a little work of heart, and no two will be exactly identical – that's the beauty of it! Your Shelly might have her own unique tilt of the head or a slightly different arrangement of her blossom spots, and that just adds to her individual charm. Embrace the process, and you’ll create a treasure.
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The Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle Amigurumi Pattern
Oh, I just know you’re going to love stitching up this darling Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle amigurumi! If you enjoy this free pattern, feel free to visit Patricia Poltera’s Amigurumi Pattern Parlour to see more of my crochet creations and other free resources I might share. It truly warms my heart to know these patterns are being enjoyed. Now, let’s get to crocheting!
Important Notes Before You Begin:
- Work in continuous rounds unless otherwise specified. Use a stitch marker to mark the beginning of each round.
- Pull your magic rings tight.
- Stuff pieces firmly but smoothly as you go, unless otherwise indicated. For the flippers, minimal stuffing or no stuffing is often best.
Head (Make 1 with MC - White)
Start with MC (White).
Rnd 1: Start 6 sc in a MR. (6)
Rnd 2: Inc in each st around. (12)
Rnd 3: [Sc 1, inc] 6 times. (18)
Rnd 4: [Sc 2, inc] 6 times. (24)
Rnd 5: [Sc
Carapace (Top Shell - Make 1 with MC - White)
Start with MC (White).
Rnd 1: Start 6 sc in a MR. (6)
Rnd 2: Inc in each st around. (12)
Rnd 3: [Sc 1, inc] 6 times. (18)
Rnd 4: [Sc 2, inc] 6 times. (24)
Rnd 5: [Sc 3, inc]
Plastron (Bottom Shell - Make 1 with MC - White)
Start with MC (White).
Rnd 1: Start 6 sc in a MR. (6)
Rnd 2: Inc in each st around. (12)
Rnd 3: [Sc 1, inc] 6 times. (18)
Rnd 4: [Sc 2, inc] 6 times. (24)
Rnd 5: [Sc 3, inc]
Shell Scutes (Make 5 with AC - Pink and MC - White)
These are the "blossom spots" on Shelly's back. Start with AC (Pink). Rnd 1: Start 6 sc in a MR. (6) Rnd 2: Inc in each st around. (12) Change to MC (White) on the last pull-through of the last stitch of Rnd 2. Rnd 3: With MC, [Sc 1, inc] 6 times. (18) Rnd 4: With MC, Sc in each st around. (18) Sl st to the first st to join. Fasten off, leaving a long tail of MC for sewing onto the carapace. Make 5 of these scutes. You can lightly stuff them before sewing if you want extra dimension, or sew them flat.
Flippers (Make 4 with MC - White)
These are worked flat, then folded and crocheted along the edge to give a double thickness, or you can make two flat pieces and sew them together. This version is for a folded piece.
Front Flippers (Make 2): With MC (White). Row 1: Ch 7. Starting in 2nd ch from hook, sc 6. Ch 1, turn. (6) Row 2: Inc, sc 4, inc. Ch 1, turn. (8) Row 3-5: Sc 8. Ch 1, turn (3 rows). (8) Row 6: Dec, sc 4, dec. Ch 1, turn. (6) Row 7: Dec, sc 2, dec. Ch 1, turn. (4) Row 8: Sc 4. (4) Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Do not turn after Row 8. Fold the flipper in half lengthwise. Using the tail, whip stitch the open long edge and the narrow tip closed. You can add a tiny bit of stuffing before closing completely if desired, but they also look lovely flat. Embroider 2-3 small pink dots near the wider tip of each front flipper using AC (Pink) yarn.
Rear Flippers (Make 2): With MC (White). Row 1: Ch 6. Starting in 2nd ch from hook, sc 5. Ch 1, turn. (5) Row 2: Inc, sc 3, inc. Ch 1, turn. (7) Row 3-4: Sc 7. Ch 1, turn (2 rows). (7) Row 5: Dec, sc 3, dec. Ch 1, turn. (5) Row 6: Dec, sc 1, dec. Ch 1, turn. (3) Row 7: Sc 3. (3) Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Fold and sew as for Front Flippers. Embroider 1-2 small pink dots near the wider tip of each rear flipper using AC (Pink) yarn.
Tail (Make 1 with MC - White)
With MC (White). Rnd 1: Start 4 sc in a MR. (4) Rnd 2: [Sc 1, inc] 2 times. (6) Rnd 3: Sc in each st around. (6) Rnd 4: [Sc 2, inc] 2 times. (8) Rnd 5: Sc in each st around. (8) Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing. You can add a tiny wisp of pink at the very tip with embroidery if you like. Lightly stuff.
Assembly Instructions for Your Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle
This is where your Shelly truly comes to life! Take your time, pin pieces in place first, and enjoy the process.
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Assemble the Shell:
- Place the Plastron (bottom shell) against the Carapace (top shell), wrong sides facing each other. The ridge created by the BLO round on the Carapace should face outwards.
- Using the long tail from the Carapace and AC (Pink) yarn, begin to sew the Carapace and Plastron together. You can use a whip stitch or a single crochet join if you prefer for a decorative edge. If single crocheting to join, insert your hook through both layers (the BLO of the Carapace and the corresponding stitch of the Plastron) and sc around with Pink.
- Before you sew completely around, stuff the shell firmly but smoothly. Aim for a nice, plump shape.
- Complete sewing the shell closed. Fasten off and weave in the end securely.
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Attach the Scutes:
- Arrange the 5 Shell Scutes on top of the Carapace. A common turtle pattern is one central scute, with two slightly forward and to the sides, and two slightly backward and to the sides, forming a pentagon or a staggered line. Refer to the inspiration image for placement ideas.
- Pin them in place. Using the long MC tails on each scute, sew them securely to the Carapace. I like to use a mattress stitch or a neat running stitch just under the edge of the scute for a clean look.
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Attach the Head:
- Position the Head at the front opening of the shell. Pin it in place, ensuring it's centered and angled slightly upwards if you like.
- Using the long MC tail from the Head, sew it very securely to the shell. You'll want to make sure it's attached firmly all the way around the base of the head. A ladder stitch can give a very neat, almost invisible join.
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Attach the Flippers:
- Pin the Front Flippers to the sides of the shell, just behind the head. Angle them slightly forward or outwards.
- Pin the Rear Flippers to the sides of the shell, towards the back.
- Using the long MC tails from each flipper, sew them securely to the body. Ensure they are attached well so they don't come loose with cuddles.
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Attach the Tail:
- Position the Tail at the center back of the shell, underneath the overhang of the Carapace.
- Using the long MC tail from the Tail, sew it securely in place.
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Final Touches:
- Check over your Shelly. Are all parts secure? Weave in any remaining ends very carefully, especially with chenille yarn (you might want to knot them discreetly on the inside if possible before weaving).
- Gently shape her as needed.
And there you have it – your very own Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle! Isn't she precious?
Tips & Tricks for Your Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle
A few little thoughts to help you along the way!
Troubleshooting Common Crochet Challenges:
- Working with Chenille Yarn: If you're finding it hard to see your stitches, ensure you have good lighting. Sometimes, feeling for the next stitch with your hook tip is more effective than trying to see it. Count your stitches diligently in each round!
- Stuffing Evenly: Stuff a little at a time to avoid lumps. Use the end of your crochet hook or a dedicated stuffing tool to get stuffing into smaller parts like the tail.
- Invisible Decreases: If you're new to the invisible decrease, there are many wonderful video tutorials online. It really does make a difference in amigurumi!
Customization Corner:
- Yarn & Colors: Feel free to experiment! Shelly would look lovely in shades of blue or green for a more traditional sea turtle look, or even rainbow colors for a fantasy turtle!
- Shell Details: You could add more or fewer scutes, or even try embroidering different patterns on them. Perhaps a tiny flower in the center of each pink "blossom"?
- Accessories: How about a tiny crocheted bow for Shelly's head, or a little seaweed snack?
Gifting Your Handmade Masterpiece:
- Shelly makes a wonderful gift for turtle lovers of all ages!
- Consider adding a little handmade tag with her name and care instructions (gentle spot cleaning is usually best for amigurumi).
- If gifting to a very young child, ensure all parts, especially safety eyes, are attached with utmost security. For babies and toddlers, embroidered eyes are always the safest option.
Frequently Asked Pattern & Finishing Questions for Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle
Q1: My chenille yarn keeps "worming" or slipping. Any tips? A: Ah yes, that can be a little quirk of some chenille yarns! Try to maintain an even tension. When you fasten off, leave a slightly longer tail and weave it in very securely, perhaps splitting the yarn tail and weaving the strands in different directions. Some people find a tiny, discreet knot on the inside before weaving helps too.
Q2: The scutes aren't looking as raised as I'd like. What can I do? A: If sewing them flat isn't giving enough dimension, you can add a tiny bit of stuffing into each scute before you sew it completely closed onto the shell. Alternatively, you could crochet a small backing piece for each scute and sew them together like tiny pillows before attaching.
Q3: How do I make sure the head is really secure? A: This is so important for a long-lasting amigurumi! When sewing the head, use strong, deliberate stitches. Go around the join at least twice. Using a long doll needle can help you pass the yarn through the head and body multiple times from different angles to really anchor it. Pinning it firmly in place before you start sewing is crucial to get the position just right.
A Final Word & Caring for Your Adorable Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle
Congratulations on creating your very own Shelly the Blossom Spot Turtle! I truly hope you enjoyed the process of bringing this gentle creature to life from just yarn and a hook. It’s such a magical transformation, isn't it? Seeing these little characters come to life through your hands is the greatest reward for me as a designer. Each stitch you've made has a little bit of your own unique touch.
Remember, your continued engagement and support – whether it's sharing your finished Shelly with me on social media (I'd be overjoyed to see her!), telling a crafty friend about this free pattern, or exploring other designs in my Pattern Parlour – make it possible for me to keep these detailed patterns freely available. So, thank you!
For caring for Shelly, gentle spot cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap is usually best. Try to avoid submerging her fully if possible, to maintain her shape and the integrity of the fiberfill. Happy stitching, my dear friends, and may your days be filled with creativity and joy!