15 amigurumi photos and step by step to make cute pets

They’re cute, full of color and, after a little training, not too difficult to make. Have you ever heard of amigurumi? To learn more about this art and start creating now, check out tips for beginners and the necessary materials below, as well as tutorials and beautiful ideas to get inspired.

What does amigurumi mean?

From the Japanese ami, which means knit, and nuigurumi, which means plush doll, it is an oriental technique of making animals with knitting or crochet stitches. This creative work has been successful in Japan for a long time, but it was only in the last few years that it started to become more popular in Brazil.

Used as both decorative objects and children’s toys, amigurumis often imitate animal or human shapes. They are made by hand, in an artisanal work that involves persistence and a lot of creativity.

The best part is that you can currently find several recipes available to make the most beautiful dolls. In addition, you can make amigurumis to order and sell to friends, colleagues or even on the internet, adding to your income. Liked?

Amigurumi for beginners: 4 tips to get started in the technique

Before learning a little more about the world of amigurumis, here’s a tip: those who already know how to crochet some stitches or chains may find it easier to get their hands on the dough – or the lines. However, for those who are new to crochet, it is also not an impossible job. See the tips below:

Necessary materials

The most basic materials for those who want to start making animals and amigurumi ornaments are thread, needles and stuffing. Acrylic filler, found in haberdashery, is a good choice for the inside of garments. Another option is to take advantage of thread scraps, not wasting any of your materials.

The most used needles are crochet. The size will depend on your thread and the type of stitch you want to make – tighter or not. As the price of these items is usually more affordable, it is worth buying several and seeing which one fits best for your work. Learn more about the materials in the video:

Other supplies you may need are: scissors, tape measure, tapestry needle, glue, felt and fabric paint. The last ones are for making details on the dolls.

Lines for amigurumi

There is no specific line for making amigurumi. There is a wide variety of colors, textures and brands available to choose from. What is important to know is that the thickness of the line affects the final size of the pets. The thinner the line, the more delicate the result. Watch the video to understand more:

Generally, cotton threads are the most used. The mercerized cotton ones have a very nice shine. The thicker ones are ideal for those who are just starting in this craft world. Ah, no need to worry: thread packs usually provide an indication of which needle is the best for use.

How to read amigurumi recipes

Learning to read amigurumi recipes is the most important step to start making your pets. There are some points that are more common, such as Magic Ring, Career and High Point. Each of them has its specific symbol. If you prefer, search on Google, print the most used points and have them close by whenever you need to make a query.

The recipes are written career by career, both in Brazil and in other countries. There is a marking at the beginning of the round, like 1 row or 1st. Then you specify what you need to do and how often. The chunks are divided by comma or +. The end of the income line shows how many career points you will have. Did you find it complicated? Check it out in the video above!

Crocheting your first ball

In the ball recipe, you will find the following abbreviations: AM (Magic Ring), pbx (short stitch), sc (short stitch), aum (increase) and dim (decrease). The video below shows the complete step by step and, in addition, teaches how to make each of these dots.

Train a little a day, until you get the hang of it and become more confident. Just like learning to play an instrument, doing crafts requires dedication.

5 amigurumi tutorials for you to make at home

After acquiring the first materials and mastering the stitches, it’s time to start new projects. Ready?

1. Panda vase

This panda-shaped vase is just a whim. Best of all, only two thread colors are used. In addition, pretend cacti are a nice option for those who can’t keep plants at home.

2. Bunny

Whether for an Easter decoration or even a cute ornament, this bunny is charming. In fact, this tutorial is two in one: with the same recipe used in the rabbit’s body, you can make eggs!

3. Kitten in a tie

To make this amigurumi kitten, you will need one color of thread for the body, one for the outfit and one for the tie. In addition, you will use silicone glue and little buttons to make the eyes and muzzle. Play the video to learn!

4. little fox

The list of materials to make the fox is not very long: skeins of 3 colors, 3mm crochet hook, buttons for the details, silicon fiber and scissors. The explanation is very detailed, great for beginners.

5. Easy octopus

According to some experiments done in Denmark, crocheted octopuses soothe premature babies, making them safer and more comfortable. Is not cool? In the video above, you can see how to make your own octopus.

Maybe your first creations won’t turn out exactly the way you were imagining, it’s normal! But soon enough you’ll get the practice and be proud of your amigurumis.

15 amigurumi photos to delight you

Just use the hashtag #amigurumi for you to come across many beautiful creations on Instagram. Here are just a few of the cutest amigurumis out there:

1. These brides are endlessly cute

2. The king of the jungle also got a passionate version

3. How to deal with this scarf fox?

4. These colorful fruits won our hearts

5. Seriously, look at these cacti

6. Giraffe lovers are thrilled!

7. The gates on duty too

8. This collection of octopus has our respect

9. This whale was used to decorate a party

10. These dolls are pure delicacy

11. Would you say no to this kitty?

12. Mini llamas are just adorable

13. We have nothing but praise for this koala wearing overalls

14. What’s cuter than a panda? Two pandas!

15. And a little pink pig could not be missing

Thread and needle in hand? Choose your favorite idea to put this super cute technique into practice!