Amigurumi is the Japanese art of crocheting small stuffed objects for toys or home decor. Animal designs are most popular, but there are also plenty of patterns out there for dolls, food, household items...pretty much anything you can imagine.

Amigurumi are usually crocheted with basic yarn and are very simple, even for beginners. They are worked in single crochet in spirals, without joining at the end of each round. Typically, a smaller size hook in proportion to the weight of the yarn is used to create a very tight fabric to contain the stuffing. Amigurumi are generally made in sections, i.e. body, head, limbs, ears,  and tail and then stuffed with fiberfill and sewn together to make a complete doll or animal. Often, embroidery floss is used to stitch detail onto the item. Felt can also be used as an embellishment or to make eyes, ears, or other features.

The entire process can be quite time-consuming, but the payoff (an adorable little handmade stuffed animal) is great. Children especially love amigurumi, and the little guys make great inexpensive birthday gifts. 

There are many amigurumi patterns available online. For free patterns, check crochet pattern central, Lion Brand Yarn, or ravelry and search "amigurumi" for a wide selection. Patterns are also available for purchase on etsy, including these fun designs by saplanet.

Join the hottest, most addictive crochet craze going and give amigurumi a try!