Use a writing utensil to draw a turtle. If you need assistance drawing one, print and cut out a simple silhouette to aid yours.

Cut out the turtle with a pair of scissors. Be careful around the ligaments–it can be delicate in the area.

Add detailing to your turtle–facial features, spots on the body, etc. I used black, white, and green markers, but play with color if you are interested.

Prep your piece of cardboard. Cut about an inch of space out in the middle of the piece.
This cardboard will act as your ribbon guide. Similarly, you can make a piece sign and do the same with your fingers.

Wrap your yarn around the outside of the cardboard guide. Do it enough that it’ll appropriately create a shell.

Continue to wrap your yarn and recenter anything that needs it. Once you’re ready, snip the yarn off and set aside.

Cut a 12-inch piece of yarn for the pom pom tie. This piece of string will anchor the pom–make sure not to trim the tails at any point.

Take your piece of yarn and thread it through the middle of your gathered yarn. Cinch it all by tying a knot into it.

Cut either side of the outer loops to create the pom pom. This step should release the ball entirely from the cardboard.

Trim and fluff any bits of the pom needed, keeping the tail intact.

Continue to round your pom pom and organize anything that is needed.

Pick up the turtle body and cut small but stable slits into either side of the turtle body.

Grab your pom pom again and add it to the turtle. Slide the tails onto the slits and secure it on the back.

Reshape any last-minute bits, and you’ll have a completed yarn turtle craft!