What is... Amigurumi?

"Amigur-what?"

Amigurumi is derived from the Japanese word 'Ami' meaning crochet or knitted and 'nuigurumi' meaning stuffed doll.

Usually characterised by their oversized heads and slightly human features some of the first amigurumi were tiny bears with huge heads, long limbed kittens and is even given credit for the birth of the 'Hello Kitty' brand.

Amigurumi can be used to make stuffed animals, toys, people and even food and because of their small size they use a limited amount of materials, meaning they're inexpensive to make. As the technique only uses double crochet and is usually worked in the round, amigurumi is great for beginners.

While amigurumi can be knitted many amigurumi designers prefer crochet because of the fabric each craft creates, the dense construction of crocheted fabric ensures the stuffing doesn't show.

Once stuffed and sewn, you can then add detail to your new friend with embroidery, beads, felt or even safety eyes!