DIY Cross Stitch Set – Neon Turtle

My most recently completed cross stitch project was a cute turtle in neon colours. It might be one of my favourite cross stitch projects to date! Partly because I love reptiles, and partly because the vibrant, neon colours of this design were super fun to sew. Although it was a large set (the kits I buy in TK Maxx usually come in two sizes, small and large), I finished it in just a couple of days.

Contents of the set

This DIY set included a plastic embroidery hoop, a blank canvas, threads in assorted neon colours, a needle, a threader, and instructions. I bought it in TK Maxx for £3.99.

I only first saw giant sea turtles in an aquarium a few years ago. They’re truly incredible animals! Whilst one of my New Year’s resolutions for 2026 is using up DIY supplies and resisting to buy new DIY kits, I had to buy this set as soon as I saw it, and I proceeded to work on it almost immediately.

Contents of cross stitch set. It includes a plastic embroidery hoop, a couple of needles, a threader, a blank canvas, embroidery thread in several colours and a leaflet with instructions. — DIY Cross Stitch Set – Turtle

Two sea turtles being fed at Sea Life Brighton. — A Day In Brighton – Sea Life Aquarium

Starting off

I decided to start with the yellow thread to make sure the sand at the bottom of the design was perfectly centered. I then moved to the neon pink thread to sew the shell of the turtle and the coral.

The first two colour blocks for a cross stitch project sew on a white fabric — DIY Cross Stitch Set – Turtle

Adding more colours

Next, I reached for the two shades of green. I sewed the seaweed as well as some details of the turtle’s body. At that point, the design was clearly coming to life.

Partially completed cross stitch design featuring a turtle — DIY Cross Stitch Set – Turtle

Nearly completed

Then, I used to the orange thread to fill the shell of the neon turtle and add the final part of the coral at the bottom of the design. Next, I moved to the darkest navy thread to sew some details on the turtle’s flippers.

Another cross stitch project done

And finally, it was time to use the remaining two shades of blue thread to complete the body of the turtle. And just like that, a bright, neon cross stitch turtle was completed! I had so much fun sewing this design, and don’t regret breaking my rule of not buying new DIY sets. It was a suitable design for the hot days. Makes me think of holidays by the sea!