I love this pattern! First of all, it has very little sewing, despite the incredible detail. Most of the pieces are crocheted together as you go. Second, the increases/decreases on the front legs are placed so they actually look like real tortoise knobby skin. Third, although this pattern is very detailed and challenging, June has provided photos of all the necessary steps to make assembly as easy as possible. I only had to frog stitches once (I didn't read the photo caption for correct positioning - totally on me). The result is stunningly realistic and much easier than expected because of June's amazing pattern writing skills.