CRAFTING 4 TURTLES

CRAFTING 4 TURTLES 2026

Hello from Kelly at Think Turtle Conservation Initiative, a non-profit group dedicated to protecting and conserving Ontario's turtle population.

Join Us for the 2026 Crafting 4 Turtles Initiative!

Since 2018, Think Turtle has welcomed people of all ages to use their creativity to help protect turtles through our Crafting 4 Turtles initiative. As we start our ninth year, we’re excited to keep this tradition of kindness, community, and caring for Ontario’s turtles going.

Every year, generous crafters from Bancroft, nearby areas, and all over Ontario make turtle and nature-inspired handmade items in any style or material they like. These unique creations are entrusted to Think Turtle to sell at events, markets, online, and during holiday sales.

All the money raised goes straight to the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre (OTCC), which runs Ontario’s only turtle hospital. These funds help care for, treat, rehabilitate, and release injured turtles back into the wild.

In 2025, the OTCC took in over 2,200 turtles, and almost 90% of them were hurt in car accidents. Thanks to our generous crafting community, Crafting 4 Turtles raised $4,504 last year. Every dollar really helps.

Since the initiative began, Crafting 4 Turtles has raised over $15,000 for the turtle hospital, helping fund lifesaving equipment, medical care, and the incubation of turtle eggs.

Over the years, we’ve seen amazing creativity. Popular items include crocheted and knitted turtles, hatchlings coming out of eggs, ninja turtles, chenille sea turtles, and a fun mix of bees, flamingos, yip-yips, bookmarks, hats, paintings, beaded bracelets, keychains, greeting cards, wreaths, plant holders, soap, candles, and more. Small items around $5 usually sell very well. Turtles are always a favorite with shoppers.

Get Involved in 2026!

This winter, we invite everyone, no matter your age or skill level, to help make 2026 another great year for Crafting 4 Turtles. Whether you’re an experienced crafter, an artist, or just beginning, your creativity can help turtles when they need it most. The mix of different skills, ideas, and handmade touches is what makes this project so special.

What Kind of Crafts Are Popular?

Not sure what to make? Here are some best-selling craft items that have helped support Ontario turtles over the years:

Knitting, crochet, felting, sewing, felting, stitchery, beading, soap making, candle making, stained glass, mosaic,  and quilting are always popular but handcrafted item in any type medium are welcome.

Small knitted or crocheted stuffies, turtles are always popular as are nature-themed creations like bees, birds, bears, or any type of animal

Handmade gift items such as bookmarks, baby bibs, bracelets, candles, and keychains

Home decor, stained glass suncatchers, plant holders, dream catchers, etc.

Small items that can be priced around five dollars tend to sell especially well at local events and online. Your creative contribution, big or small, is welcome and appreciated.

Knitting & Crochet

We’re happy to share a knit or crochet turtle stuffie pattern. Just contact us by email at thinkturtle@yahoo.com. If you have your own patterns or creative ideas, feel free to use them!

(Please note: we kindly ask that dishcloths, washcloths, and crochet-top tea towels be avoided, as we want to support local crafters who sell these items.)

Key Dates & Details

Completion Date: Please try to finish your items by the end of June. If that’s not possible, don’t worry, handmade donations are welcome any time of year.

How to Contribute: Once your items are ready, get in touch to arrange drop-off, pick-up, or delivery to our Bancroft office. We’re happy to help no matter where you are in Ontario. If it’s hard for you to get your items to us, we’ll work with you to find another way to ensure they arrive.

Scroll down to see photos of past creations and get inspired for your own projects.h friends, family, and anyone who loves crafting and turtles. Together, we can make a real and lasting difference.

Help Spread the Word!

Please share this initiative with friends, family, and anyone who loves crafting and turtles. Together, we can make a real and lasting difference.

Thank you for your care, generosity, and creativity. We truly appreciate every contribution and can’t wait to see what you create this year. Your dedication means more than you know.

Let’s make 2026 another incredible year for helping turtles.

Should you have any questions regarding this subject or other turtle related matters please do not hesitate to contact Think Turtle Conservation Initiative at 647-606-9537 (phone/text) or e-mail thinkturtle@yahoo.com or message. Thank you for looking out for species at risk!