By Carolyn Hanson
Amigurumi is a Japanese art form that uses crochet or knit to make small stuffed toys. The term comes from two Japanese words, “ami,” meaning crocheted or knitted, and “nuigurumi,” meaning stuffed doll. The appeal is the small size (~ 4 inches tall), whimsical nature, and quick completion. The toys are everywhere on the internet. Patterns can be found online and in stores. Some are available as kits and promoted as ready to go (started for you) and easily completed by anyone 12 or older with no prior knowledge of crochet. Hmm.
Sounds too good to be true? Let’s examine.
What is crochet and knitting? Both are ancient crafts. Crochet uses a hook and yarn to generate a series of loops, which become a chain, which is then built upon to form a fabric of stitches. Crochet fabric is dense and firm. Knitting, on the other hand, uses 2 pointed needles and yarn to create an interlocking fabric that is flat and stretchy. Knitted fabric is used in textiles.
The crocheter must use both hands to generate the necessary tension to form the loops. To stand upright without support, amigurumi toys must be crocheted tightly for stiffness. This requires controlling the yarn to create the necessary tension. Controlling tension is the key skill needed in crochet.
I’ve had many requests for help after beginners purchased these adorable kits and were unsuccessful in getting past the first few steps.
Here’s what works:
– Everything is included: hook, all yarn needed in just the right amount, plastic safety eyes, yarn needle for embroidery, QR code access to video instruction, and stuffing. They even start the project for you. (The hardest part for any beginner.) Plus cute packaging.
– The short videos (15 – 60 seconds) can be repeated continuously, as needed. Estimated 3-8 hours to complete.
– The yarn is a soft poly-spun material that does not split and is easy to use for beginners.
– The medium size hook (4.0 mm, size G) has a cushion handle and is comfortable to hold.
Here’s what I have found:
– Though the videos are detailed, they don’t explain the need to create and maintain the necessary tension. This skill requires practice which is not emphasized. Instead, it’s presented as if it’s interconnecting blocks that just fit together. Legos anyone?
– The videos break down each movement into so many steps that you’re not sure what you’re doing. Imagine being shown how to crack an egg and add it to the cake batter in 5 easy steps.
– Written instructions seen in the video are minimal and are not the primary method of instruction. They are a guide to creating the toy, not to teach crochet. There is a pdf of written instructions, but I have not seen them.
– There are 30 or more videos to complete the project.
– The kits are produced in China. The spoken English is translated from another language.
– Cost – $30.
For an endless supply of amigurumi patterns, go to ravelry.com. My recommendation? Take a class.