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What is amigurumi? The strict definition for amigurumi is a
crocheted or knitted stuffed toy or doll. This includes a wide variety of
animals, dolls, and imaginative monster creations. But amigurumi are more than
simple dolls or toys.
Amigurumi are usually worked in basic stitches like single crochet
or half double crochet, making them excellent projects for new crocheters. But
these simple stitches are shaped with increases and decreases to form winsome sculptures.
Just check out the shaping of the mouth, eyelids, and toes of Roy the Gardener.
Here are some tips on crocheting amigurumi from the
designers of the creation in the Crochet
Me presents the 2012 Amigurumi Calendar Projects:
Tips from the
Professionals on Crochet Amigurumi
Laura Gibbons: Don't give up! I think many people look at
the patterns and their brain just starts to hurt because they don't understand
it. Take the pattern line by line, piece by piece.
Stacey Trock: Amigurumi should be fun, not frustrating.
Don't get too caught up about positioning the ears "just right" . . .
whatever looks cute to you is right!
Gina Reneé Padilla: Don't be afraid of crocheting amigurumi,
if you know the basic stitches of crochet, then you will have no problem
crocheting amigurumis. Take your time, draw a picture, even search online for
something that will inspire you.
Allison Hoffman: Keep those stitches tight and stuff til you
can't stuff'em any more! Sketch the face out first (embroidery, eye placement,
etc.), and it makes it a lot easier to transfer your idea onto the toy.
Experiment with different kinds of yarn for texture.
Nancy Anderson: Use smaller hooks in order to crochet tight
fabric with no stuffing show-through but rest your hands regularly, as this
tight gauge makes your hands hurt. Have fun and don't be afraid to be creative
and whimsical with colors, embellishments and feature placements. It's okay to
go a bit wild and crazy, it's just a toy. Best of all, have fun as that's what
it's all about.
You can join in the whimsical fun of crocheted amigurumi and
create your own sculptural masterpieces. Order Crochet Me Presents the 2012 Amigurumi Calendar Projects today and share the joy of amigurumi with your friends
and family.
Best wishes,
P.S. Do you have any tips for crocheting amigurumi? Share them in the comments.
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