Super sea slugs

Learn how to crochet a sea slug
Sea slug

  • }Target level: KS2

  • cTime: 1–2 hours

  • uLinks to science

Learning objectives

Understand how to crochet from a pattern and make a sea slug toy while learning about these animals.

Resources needed

  • Crochet pattern handout
  • Wool
  • Crochet hook
  • Toy stuffing
  • Scissors
  • Paint
  • Paintbrush

 

Instructions

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Sea slug instructions 1

1. Create a basic slip knot

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Sea slug instructions 2

2. Chain 10 stitches

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Sea slug instructions 3

3. Insert hook back into stitch 9 and create 5 single crochets

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Sea slug instructions 4

4. Single crochet until the end of the row

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Sea slug instructions 5

5. Place 5 single crochets into the last stitch on the row

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Sea slug instructions 6

6. Continue to crochet around for 4 more rows

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Sea slug instructions 7

7. Crochet one more round but increasing your stitch by putting two stitches in each hole

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Sea slug instructions 8

8. Crochet one more round using a normal single crochet stitch, then tie off

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Sea slug instructions 9

9. Repeat steps 1–6 to create a second piece

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Sea slug instructions 10

10. Place the second piece on top of the first and begin to attach the two together

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Sea slug instructions 11

11. Place your hook through one hole in one piece then another hole in the other piece and pull through both

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Sea slug instructions 12

12. Continue to attach all the way around but leave a small gap to add stuffing

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Sea slug instructions 13

13. Add stuffing, close up the gap and tie off

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Sea slug instructions 14

14. Chain 8 stitches

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Sea slug instructions 15

15. Crochet back down the chain and tie off but leave some excess string. Repeat steps 14 and 15

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Sea slug instructions 16

16. Attach both of the pieces to the body by threading the loose ends though a hole and tying a knot

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Sea slug instructions 17

17. Wrap some wool around two fingers (but not too tight)

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Sea slug instructions 18

18. Take it off your fingers carefully and tie a piece of wool around it tightly. Make sure to leave a tail to attach it onto the body

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Sea slug instructions 19

19. Cut through the loops making sure not to cut the long tail ends

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Sea slug instructions 20

20. Attach the pom-pom onto the body the same way as in step 16

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Sea slug instructions 21

21. Cut off all long threads and trim up the pom-pom

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Sea slug instructions 22

22. Paint spots on your sea slug using a small brush

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Sea slug instructions 23

23. Congratulations! You have finished crocheting your sea slug!

Show more
Experiment with different colours and weights of wool with different sizes of crochet hooks to make interesting and fun friends for your new sea slug!

Super sea slug stats

Learn more about sea slugs with this colourfully hand-illustrated fact sheet.
Sea slug instructions complete
 

Ways to include all learners

  • Children may require assistance in understanding crochet terminology.
  • The pattern explained in the instructions can be read aloud.

 

How might this activity support social, emotional and mental health needs?

  • Many find the act of crocheting very relaxing and helpful towards their mental health.
  • Students should feel a sense of pride after finishing the crochet pattern.
  • The toy that they crochet acts as its own reward, as well as providing a starting point for further discussion and inspiration.

 
Students at National Marine Aquarium Plymouth

Developing ocean literacy

Learn more about the ocean by trying our ocean literacy activities .
All of our activities are supported by extensive research from the University of Plymouth and its partners, such as the National Marine Aquarium. We are focused on developing links to promote research, practice and knowledge exchange, particularly around Environmental and Sustainability Education (ESE).
Read about our research in practice .
Research with Plymouth Institute of Education