Make an Amigurumi Zoo

 Many years ago when my kids were small, I went to a craft event in Lawndale, CA. One of the ladies there had a table full of crocheted animals and dolls. I had to have one. I bought a blue clown. But I was determined to try making my own.

The first one I ever made was an elephant from a pattern. He had an orange body and gray ears. Having succeeded I couldn't wait to make more over the years. I've made many as gifts and sold others. I'd love to write my own book on it someday.

Amigurumi is Japanese inspired crochet and knitted dolls and toys. It might be an animal, a item like a cactus or a cupcake, or a doll. They are fun to make. You need to know basic crochet and knitting stitches, and how to stuff your creatures and sew the parts together.

I make up all my own patterns, but if you are not to that level yet there are many books on the market. On Amazon I found at least a dozen books on the topic. It's a great way to use up leftover balls of yarn as well.

I use acryclic yarn, though wool is more traditional. But many people are allergic to wool or just don't care for it. An acrylic amigurumi can be tossed in the wash without worry of shrinking it.

If you are making one for a child under three, stick with sewing on felt eyes and noses. For older kids you can use the lock tight style eyes or buttons.

I stuff all mine with new polyester fiberfilf but other artists prefer to stuff them with snippets of clean rags, like cut up t-shirts or cotton fluff.

All amigurumi creations and photos are copyright F.Z. Harper 2010. But I'm sure you can come up with your own cool ideas.