About This Squirtle Amigurumi Pattern
Perfect for tucking into a backpack or sitting on a desk, this little turtle makes a fantastic gift for the gamers and 90s kids in your life who need a bit of desk-side moral support.
Why You'll Love This Squirtle Amigurumi Pattern
I honestly love how the shell is constructed as a separate piece—it adds so much texture and depth to the final toy. The curly tail is another favorite of mine; it is a simple folding technique that makes such a huge difference in his silhouette. It is just a really satisfying, nostalgic make!
Switch Things Up
I still remember the first time I picked Squirtle as my starter—there’s just something about that cheeky little face and the curly tail that gets me every time. When I sat down to write this pattern, I wanted to make sure he felt just as sturdy and round as he looks in the games. Working with worsted weight yarn and a 3.5mm hook is my sweet spot for amigurumi because it creates a fabric tight enough to keep the stuffing hidden but doesn't strain your hands too much.
The trickiest part for me was getting the shell right. I experimented with a few different shapes before landing on this one, which uses white trim to really make the light brown pop. When you get to the body, don't be afraid to stuff it firmly! A well-stuffed Squirtle stands up better on his own, especially once you attach the tail. I usually keep mine right on my crochet shelf to keep me company while I work on new designs. I hope you enjoy making him as much as I did—he’s a true classic that never goes out of style. Happy hooking!
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ If you don't stuff the head firmly enough before Round 9, the shaping of the cheeks can look a bit lumpy once the decreases start.✗ The eye placement is key to his expression; if they aren't placed exactly between the increases of Round 7, he might look a bit lopsided.✗ Forgetting to sew the fold into the tail before attaching it to the body will result in a straight tail rather than his signature curl.✗ Attaching the shell too high or too low on the back can throw off his balance, making him tip over when he is sitting.
