Whether you're new to crochet or have years of experience, Amigurumi may be a new concept to you. Amigurumi is a popular Japanese art that involves stuffed toys or 3D objects made with yarn by crocheting or knitting.
As in all my tutorial posts, I have linked videos and/or articles to explain key concepts. If you're unfamiliar with any terminology in my posts, please click the links and utilize my resources to help get you up to speed. If you need something else explained, please contact me for more help - I am very responsive!
Amigurumi projects are achieved by crocheting in the round, which is, if you're a beginner, something you must practice to begin making 3D objects. It's easy to get started, all you need is yarn, stuffing, a crochet hook, and a yarn needle for simple hand sewing. There are countless tutorials and videos to watch to help you get started. If you're new to crochet, check out my free online tutorials and YouTube channel to begin.
Possibly the easiest 3D object to crochet is the sphere. It's a symmetrical shape that you can make in any size, with any type of yarn, and it's easy to stuff. Check out my sphere post to learn how to make one for yourself! Once you master the sphere, you will be ready to take on more challenging amigurumi patterns.
Tips & Terminology Used in Amigurumi
Magic Circle:
Most 3D shapes begin with a magic circle, which is a technique used to begin crocheting in the round. When we crochet in the round, we crochet in spirals or joined rounds, with the first round made inside a magic circle (sometimes called magic/adjustable ring or loop). What makes it "magic" is the ability to adjust the hole in the center of the first round. This is not the only method for beginning the first round when crocheting in the round, but it is quite common.
Crochet Hook:
Typically, I recommend following yarn manufacturer recommendations for hook sizes, but when crocheting 3D objects, I always crochet with a hook that is a size smaller than recommended. For example, when working with medium weight acrylic yarn, I normally use a 4 mm crochet hook, even when 5 mm is recommended on the yarn label. This helps keep the space between stitches tight, reducing the visibility of the stuffing behind the stitches when the 3D piece is finished.
Yarn:
When selecting yarn for amigurumi, fiber matters, and there are several things you may want to consider before beginning your project:
After care:
How do you wash it?
Will it pill?
Durability:
Will it hold up against a toddler?
Will it hold its shape?
Stretch:
Will my stitches create the intended shape?
For amigurumi projects, I use either cotton, acrylic, or a blend of cotton and acrylic. Cotton doesn't stretch while acrylic stretches a lot. Depending on the manufacturer and the manufacturing process, some cotton and acrylic yarns can feel starchy or stiff, but they can also be processed to feel soft. Shop around, test different yarns to get a feel for the result. And, read those labels for after care!
Colors:
Color selection can be one of the best parts of shopping for yarn, but it can also get tricky. If you're like me and you want your amigurumi projects to be true to their original counterparts, color matters. Sometimes I find a yarn I love, then come to realize that the manufacturer only makes a few color variations - seriously limiting my amigurumi color spectrum and my ability to make exact 3D replicas of my favorite things. Premier Yarns is my absolute favorite yarn manufacturer - their color selection being one of the main reasons. So, I'm going to shamelessly insert a link to their website here so you can check out all they have to offer. So much yarn... so many colors!
Stuffing:
Stuffing is an art in itself - it's something you get a feel for as you progress in your 3D projects. With stuffing, yarn fiber matters; not all yarns stretch and respond to stuffing in the same way. The good news is, you can practice making simple objects like spheres, in a range of sizes, using different types of yarn, to get a feel for stuffing technique. It's a general rule in amigurumi to not stuff too much, but this is subjective, and how much stuffing you need depends on what you're making. This is not an exact science. Just keep in mind that over-stuffing can create spaces between your stitches which leaves stuffing visible from outside your work. Generally speaking, firm stuffing creates rigid shapes which allows for a stronger base for other parts to be sewn to it. For example, if you want a stuffed toy to stand up on its own, it's best to stuff firmly. Loose stuffing creates a squishy shape, which may be more appealing for things like baby toys or other non-rigid objects.
In my amigurumi projects, I use polyester fiber fill stuffing, which can be found at most craft stores. Packaging ranges in volume, but my advice to you would be to buy a bigger bag if you're unsure how much you need for a project. Better to have too much than not enough.
Sewing Needle:
The needle I use for sewing amigurumi parts together is called a Darning needle. This looks like a typical sewing needle, only much larger. The large eye of the needle allows for easier threading with thick yarn. Darning needles can also be made with a bent tip that allows you to sew across flat stitches more easily than a straight needle.
Safety Eyes:
Safety eyes are commonly used in amigurumi animal or doll projects and are a safer alternative than sew-on buttons or beads.
Safety eyes have notched threads that lock inside a washer. When installed correctly, the round head of the eye is visible from the outside and the washer holds it in place from the back of the work. It is impossible to separate the head from the washer once installed - meaning, children cannot pull it free. When using safety eyes, it is important to be sure you're using the corresponding eye and washer to prevent failure.
Safety eyes come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and designs. They are super inexpensive when purchased in bulk.
Ready to Start?
Choose your first pattern and go shop for hooks and yarn! If you're looking for some inspiration, check out the patterns for sale in the Off the Hook Crochet shop!
There are also a ton of free patterns online, as well as beginner crochet kits. I won't ever discourage someone from trying crochet kits if they're just starting out. The kits are super convenient, but they can be a little pricey. They include all materials, tools, and instructions needed to make a single product, as advertised - but that's all. If you're a bit more serious about getting into crochet and taking on multiple amigurumi projects, get yourself a single set of tools, and perhaps a bigger selection of yarn, which in the long run would be cheaper than buying a kit for each project, and significantly reduces waste.
I hope you found this post helpful! Please let me know if you have any questions. Check out my other posts for more information and my YouTube channel for helpful video tutorials!
Good luck and happy crafting!
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