Celia The Crab

Make 2

Using color red

R1: 3 sc into a magic circle {3 sts}

Alternate way to begin: chain 2, sc 3 times in 2nd chain from hook {3 sts}

R2: (inc) 3 times {6 sts}

R3: sc in next 6 sts {6 sts}

R4: inc, sc in next 5 sts {7 st}

R5: inc in next 2 sts, sc in next 5 sts {9 sts}

Instead of fastening off, grab the big claw and place it next to the small claw.

Single crochet directly into the big claw.

Go into the stitch next to the fasten off.

Continue to go around until you reach the end of the big claw.

Single crochet around the small claw until you reach the stitch marker.

Use the fastened off yarn to close holes between where the claws were joined, if needed.

The explanation above is considered R6.

R6: sc in next 18 sts around big claw and small claw {18 sts}

R7: (dec, sc in next st) 6 times {12 sts}

Stuff each claw but do not stuff anymore.

R8: (dec, sc in next 2 sts) 3 times {9 sts}

R9-13: sc in next 9 sts {9 sts}

Do a seamless join on an open piece:

Seamless Join Video

Cut the working yarn, leaving a tail. Pull the yarn through the last stitch (do not fasten off).

Thread the remaining yarn into an embroidery needle and insert the needle under both loops of the stitch to the left of the last stitch - from outside to inside.

Then insert your needle through the middle of the V - of the last crocheted stitch - from outside to inside.

Set aside until assembly.

NEXT: Middle Leg

If you like Celia The Crab, make sure to check out my Sharlotte The Spider Free Crochet Pattern.