Amigurumi

What is Amigurumi? It is the Japanese art of knitting or crocheting small stuffed animals and anthropomorphic creatures. The word is derived from a combination of the Japanese words ami, meaning crocheted or knitted, and nuigurumi, meaning stuffed doll.[1] Amigurumi are typically animals, but can include artistic renderings, and inanimate objects endowed with anthropomorphic features. (Thanks Wikipedia)

I've been having so much fun with this great mini-book of crochet patterns from Lion Brand Yarn. My little boy looks through this book like it's a catalog for him to choose from.I'm not trying to personally promote Lion Brand Yarn, but Angie and I have checked out a few books from the library on amigurumi before and the patterns have left me really confused, but this little book I picked up at Hobby Lobby was really clear and easy to follow.

I'm almost finished with this alligator I started this morning and I waved good-bye to a cute little owl that I made for a friend's daughter just last night. Lots of fun.

They make up quite quickly. You just need yarn, a crochet hook, stuffing and safety eyes because at Lion Brand Yarn they have a endless selection of free patterns for amigurumi. You do have to sign up for their site, but I've personally never had a problem with them (ie they don't share your email) and I like getting their occasional email updates (which are easy to opt out of, if you desire).

Type 'amigurumi' in the Search box, sign in and enjoy all the free patterns! Here's some pictures of some of the adorable critters you'll find here.

-C