I’ve made Horace the hermit crab using Aran/worsted weight yarn. I used a tweed yarn for the shell, but you can use any tweed mix/variegated/print yarn to give it a lovely “shell” look. He is 6.5 inches long and the shell is 5 inches tall (when made with the recommended materials).

The 11 page pattern is intermediate skill level and is available in US and UK terminology – both versions will be available for you to download. It is clear to follow with detailed instructions and lots of pictures for step by step making and assembly. There are also picture instructions for front post stitch and back loop only.

The following stitches/techniques are used in this pattern:
US Terminology - slip stitch, single crochet, front post single crochet, increase, decrease (sc2tog), back loop only
UK Terminology - slip stitch, double crochet, front post double crochet, increase, decrease (dc2tog), back loop only

Recommended Materials:

• Yarn: I have made Horace using Sirdar Country Classic and Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed (Aran/worsted weight yarn) - colour and weight details in pattern
• Hook: 4mm (G) crochet hook
• Stuffing: I use polyester filling
• Safety eyes: I have used 9mm plastic safety eyes, but you can embroider the eyes on if you prefer
• Yarn needle
• Pins
• (A stitch marker and row counter are useful)
• A small amount of black Aran yarn for the smile

(This pattern is for personal use only, not to be resold or rewritten in any way. I am happy for you to sell the finished toy, but please credit the design to me.)

Pattern Language: English