What are amigurumis?

Amigurumis are small, handmade crocheted dolls created using crochet stitches. These types of dolls originate from Japan. The name "amigurumi" comes from the Japanese words "ami," meaning "to knit" or "crochet," and "nuigurumi," which refers to "stuffed doll." These dolls are made with yarn, and it's common to find them in adorable shapes of animals, characters, everyday objects, food, and many other forms. Virtually anything you can imagine can be turned into an amigurumi.

Amigurumis can be made with almost any type of yarn, such as wool, cotton, synthetic yarn, or even sewing thread. They are typically filled with synthetic fiber to give them a soft and fluffy consistency.

Usually, an amigurumi is small; however, if you want to make a larger-scale doll, you can use thicker yarn, and if you prefer a smaller one, finer yarn would be the choice. Some people even make amigurumis with sewing thread, resulting in miniature amigurumis.

What is an amigurumi used for?

An amigurumi can be a very special gift, as handmade presents always have a lot of charm, don't you think? Due to their size, amigurumis are ideal for use as keychains, to decorate small spaces, or to hang (for example, on a car's rearview mirror, a doorknob, a Christmas tree...). Essentially, the only limit is your imagination.

Can Amigurumis be used as toys?

Absolutely! They can be used as toys, but it's important to choose materials and designs appropriate for the child who will use them. There are hypoallergenic yarns (which help prevent itching, infections, and allergies) that are ideal for infants with more sensitive skin. Regarding materials, while there are safety eyes (which have a small plastic piece inside to prevent the eye from coming out), if the amigurumi is for a young child who might chew, pull, etc., it is recommended that the eyes be embroidered with yarn and that no small parts are added. Even though these parts are designed to be safe, it's best to avoid any potential risks.

How to make an amigurumi?

As we have seen, amigurumis are made using yarn and a crochet hook. However, if you've never made one before, you might be wondering, "But how do you make them?" To create them, there are patterns with written instructions, video tutorials, and illustrations available. There are many free patterns you can view online or download, and there are also websites where patterns are sold.

However, if you've never made an amigurumi before and don't even have basic knowledge of crochet stitches, I recommend starting with video tutorials. There are videos specifically created for beginners with very detailed instructions that will guide you through the entire process.

In short, amigurumis can become true works of art where creators express themselves through their imagination. Making them is often compared to meditation because it requires focusing on counting stitches, rounds, and following instructions precisely to create the amigurumi that you have fallen in love with. Once you start exploring this world, I assure you that you'll want to keep discovering new techniques, patterns, and designs to bring these adorable little dolls to life.