If you follow crafting trends online, it is impossible to escape the lure of amigurumi. These ultra-cute Japanese crochet creations are everywhere, from food items to cuddly toys, but what is amigurumi, and how can you get started?
What is amigurumi?
‘Amigurumi’ means ‘crocheted stuffed toy’ in Japanese. This is exactly what this clever crocheting technique creates.
Where does amigurumi come from?
Amigurumi is generally assumed to originate from Japan. Dutch traders introduced the craft of knitting, which quickly caught on; in fact, it became so popular that Samurai were said to use it to craft clothing and accessories.
As Japan began to industrialise and Westerners flooded into the country, techniques evolved even further; however, it wasn’t until the 20th century that the first amigurumi patterns started to appear.
From the 1970s onwards, amigurumi has been a central part of Japanese kawaii culture, celebrating all things cute.
Getting started with amigurumi
The concept of amigurumi isn’t difficult to grasp and can be adapted to crochet kits such as Wool Couture crochet kits. Just grab some toy stuffing and you are ready to start crafting toys and other objects.
Although amigurumi uses regular crochet stitches, such as single and double crochet, you work in a circular form that is easy to stuff. Beginners usually start with a ball, using the magic circle technique.
Amigurumi tips and tricks
Magic circle
Using any crochet kits you like, let’s start with the magic circle. Using single chain stitch, you will create a circle with no hole in the middle. This is the basis of all amigurumi crochet projects that use a round form.
Hooks and yarn
Hooks for amigurumi tend to be small to keep the stitches tight. Lightweight yarns such as cotton and acrylic give good definition and excellent results,
Stitch markers
These are a lifesaver when you are working in the round so you don’t lose your place.
Don’t overstuff
Keep your cuddly toy cuddly, rather than stuffing so the stitches explode.
You are now ready to crochet anything from Hello Kitty to an ice cream cone!
