Welcome to one of our most popular and charming crochet projects! This adorable turtle coaster combines everyday functionality with a playful design, making it a fantastic stash-buster and a wonderful handmade gift. Whether you are a beginner looking to practice circular crochet or an experienced crafter wanting a quick, satisfying make, this project is sure to bring a smile to your face.
Working in the round, you will create a textured shell and assemble simple appendages to bring your little turtle to life. Grab your favorite yarn, and let’s dive right in!
Materials & Tools Needed
- Yarn: 100% Cotton yarn (Worsted weight / #4) in main color (shell) and contrasting color (head, legs, and tail). Cotton is absorbent, durable, and holds its shape best for coasters.
- Crochet Hook: Size US G/6 (4.0 mm) or size needed to obtain a firm, even gauge.
- Notions: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and stitch markers.
- Optional: Small safety eyes or black embroidery floss for facial details.
Abbreviations & Pattern Notes
- US Terminology
- Ch: Chain
- Sl st: Slip stitch
- Sc: Single crochet
- Dc: Double crochet
- Inc: Increase (work 2 sc in the same stitch)
- St(s): Stitch(es)
- Rnd(s): Round(s)
- Note: Maintain a consistent, firm tension to ensure your coaster lies flat and neatly supports cups and glasses.
Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions
- The Shell (Main Body): Using your main color, start with a magic ring.
- Rnd 1: Work 6 sc in magic ring, join with sl st to first st. (6 sts)
- Rnd 2: Ch 1, work 2 sc in each st around, join. (12 sts)
- Rnd 3: Ch 1, *1 sc in next st, inc in next st; repeat from * around, join. (18 sts)
- Rnd 4: Ch 1, *1 sc in next 2 sts, inc in next st; repeat from * around, join. (24 sts)
- Rnd 5: Continue expanding the circle by working evenly spaced increases (e.g., 3 sc, inc) until your shell measures approximately 4.5 to 5 inches across. Fasten off and weave in ends.
- The Head: Using your contrasting color, ch 4.
- Working in the 2nd ch from hook, work 1 sc in each of the next 2 ch, 3 sc in the last ch. Working along the opposite side of the foundation chain, work 1 sc in each of the next 2 ch. Join with a sl st and fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.
- The Legs (Make 4): Using your contrasting color, ch 3.
- Work 1 sc in the 2nd ch from hook, and 2 sc in the last ch. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing each leg to the underside of the shell.
- The Tail (Make 1): Using your contrasting color, ch 3.
- Work 1 sc in the 2nd ch from hook and 1 sl st in the last ch. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Finishing & Helpful Tips
- Secure Assembly: Use your yarn needle and the long tails left on each piece to securely whipstitch the head, four legs, and tail to the underside of the main shell. Double-check symmetry before knotting off.
- Add Details: Embroider a tiny, cheerful smile using black embroidery thread, or attach small safety eyes securely before final assembly.
- Manage Your Tension: Keep your stitches tight and even. Loose stitches can cause gaps where moisture from drinks might seep through to your furniture.
- Block for Perfection: Lightly steam or wet block your finished coaster to relax the cotton fibers, ensuring it lies completely flat and polished.
Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
Prefer visual guidance? Follow along with the complete video tutorial below: