Fun Crochet Googly Eyed Turkey Tutorial

Create a fun and quirky googly-eyed turkey with this crochet project! This charming design is perfect for holiday decor or as a playful handmade gift.

Its vibrant colors and whimsical character make it a standout piece that’s both easy to create and versatile in its use.

This crochet turkey adds a touch of humor and warmth to your home! Use it as seasonal decor, in kids’ crafts, or a unique gift.

It’s built to last, showcasing durability with the right yarn and stitches while maintaining its cute and eye-catching appeal.

Credit Lisa Loves Crochet and Knit

In this post, you will find a step-by-step Crochet Googly Eyed Turkey pattern along with detailed instructions. However, if you encounter any difficulties or mistakes while creating your desired design, feel free to watch the video tutorial provided at the end of the blog post.

Materials and Preparation

To crochet this adorable googly-eyed turkey, you’ll need the following materials:

Materials:

• Yarn:
  • Brown yarn (for the face and body)
  • Yellow yarn (for the legs and beak)
• Hooks:
  • Size H crochet hook (for the face and legs)
  • Size I crochet hook (for the body)
• Googly Eyes: Any color (Lisa chose orange, but you can pick your favorite).
• Ribbon: Six different colors of 5-inch pre-cut ribbon for the turkey’s tail.
• Felt: A small scrap for the beak (cut to form a triangle).
• Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends.
• Glue: Hot glue or other fabric-safe adhesive.
• Scissors

Preparation Tips:

• Pre-cut the ribbon pieces into 5-inch strips to simplify assembly.
• Gather all materials ahead of time to avoid interruptions during crafting.

Abbreviations and Notes

Abbreviations:

• CH: Chain
• SC: Single Crochet
• HDC: Half Double Crochet
• SLST: Slip Stitch

Important Notes:

• The turkey’s body is shaped as a half-circle (fan) for stability and a flat base.
• The googly eyes are crocheted into the face using the magic loop technique.
• Use hot glue sparingly to avoid burns but securely attach ribbon and embellishments.
• The project involves switching between two hook sizes (H and I).
• The turkey can be finished as a pin or decorative item – you decide!

Gauge, Approximate Size, and Pattern Notes

Gauge:

Gauge isn’t critical for this project since the turkey is decorative. However, ensuring consistent stitching will improve the look.

Approximate Size:

Finished turkey measures 3–4 inches tall (depending on the ribbon height and overall assembly).

Special Techniques:

• Magic Loop: Used for starting both the face and body.
• No gauge swatch is needed for this pattern.

Step-by-Step Pattern

Step 1: Crochet the Face

1. Create the Magic Loop:
   • Begin using the H hook and brown yarn.
   • Make a magic loop.
2. Work HDC Around the Loop:
   • Chain 1 and work 8 HDC around the magic loop.
   • Tighten the loop around the googly eyes and work 4 more HDC behind them.
   • Slip stitch to join the round and secure the loop tightly.
3. Build Up the Face:
   • Chain 1 and work 1 SC in the same spot.
   • Work 2 SC into each stitch around.
   • Slip stitch to join, chain 1, cut working yarn, and pull through to knot.
4. Attach the Beak:
   • Snip a small triangle for the beak using yellow felt.
   • Hot glue the felt triangle onto the face, underneath the googly eyes.

Step 2: Crochet the Body

1. Create the Fan Base:
   • Switch to I hook and brown yarn.
   • Create another magic loop and chain 1.
   • Work 10 HDC into the loop and tighten.
   • Slip stitch to join.
2. Shape the Fan:
   • Chain 1, turn, and alternate stitches:
     • 1 HDC in the first stitch, then 2 HDC in the next.
     • Follow the pattern to create a fan shape but leave the last 3 stitches unworked for a flat edge.
   • Turn the work, chain 1, and repeat the alternating pattern to flatten further.
   • Cut working yarn and weave in ends.

Step 3: Crochet the Legs

1. Start the First Leg:
   • Switch back to the H hook and yellow yarn.
   • Create a slip knot and attach the yarn to the underside of the body with a single crochet.
   • Chain 6.
2. Make the Toes:
   • Slip stitch into the second chain from the hook.
   • Chain 3 and repeat the same process to create three small toes.
   • Make sure not to twist the leg, and single crochet back up (3 stitches) to the body.
   • Slip stitch to finish and fasten off.
3. Repeat for the Second Leg:
   • Attach the second leg skipping a stitch for spacing. Mirror the steps from the first leg.

Step 4: Assemble the Ribbon Tail

1. Prepare Ribbon Loops:
   • Fold each ribbon in half and lightly glue the ends together to form loops.
2. Assemble the Tail:
   • Place a line of glue along the flat bottom of the body and attach each ribbon loop in an overlapping pattern.
   • Start with purple, then layer blue, green, orange, yellow, and red.

Step 5: Final Assembly

1. Attach the Head to the Body:
   • Place a small dab of glue at the top of the body and press the turkey face firmly into place.
2. Add the Pin (Optional):
   • Glue a pin backing to the center of the ribbon loops, creating a wearable accessory.

Key to Success

• Choose high-quality yarn for a sturdy yet soft finish.
• Use safety googly eyes for child-friendly projects.
• Master basic crochet stitches to ensure a polished look.
• Plan vibrant color combinations for extra charm.

Conclusion

Crocheting this googly-eyed turkey is both fun and satisfying. Its versatility, charm, and ease make it a delightful project to try. Whether for gifting or decorating, it’s a perfect way to showcase your creativity and have some crochet fun!

Video Tutorial