Amigurumi: What They Are, How to Start and What Materials You Need

Amigurumi are little crocheted toys — animals, characters, objects — born in Japan and now the most beloved project for crocheters all over the world. If you've never made one, this guide explains where to start: what materials to buy, the basic technique to learn, and 5 video tutorials for your first amigurumi.

You'll also need a 2.5-3 mm hook (one size smaller than the yarn recommends, to get tight stitches that don't let the stuffing out) and a tapestry needle with a rounded tip to sew the parts. If you want to start with everything included, the amigurumi kits contain yarn, eyes, stuffing, hook and instructions in a single box.

How to make the magic ring in 5 steps:

1. Wrap the yarn twice around the index and middle finger of your left hand
2. Insert the hook under both strands, grab the working yarn and pull it through
3. Make one chain to secure
4. Work 6 single crochets into the ring (the standard number for amigurumi)
5. Pull the starting tail to close the circle completely — no hole in the centre

It takes 2-3 tries to get the hang of it. It's normal for the first one to come out crooked — the third will be perfect. On Tessiland Studio you'll find video tutorials that show exactly how the fingers move.

1. Hook too big. If you use the size the yarn recommends (e.g. 4 mm for a n.3 yarn) the stitches will be too wide and the stuffing will show through the holes. For amigurumi, always go down at least one size: n.3 yarn → 2.5 mm hook. Stitches must be tight and compact.

2. Not counting stitches. Amigurumi are worked in a continuous spiral without closing the round. After 3-4 rounds it's very easy to lose count and end up with a lopsided piece. Use a stitch marker (even a different-coloured thread) in the first stitch of each round.

3. Over- or under-stuffing. Too much stuffing deforms the toy and makes a "belly". Too little leaves it floppy. The trick: stuff a little at a time, shape with your hands, and add more before closing. The head should be firm, the body slightly softer.

Find the Perfect Tutorial on Tessiland Studio

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How much yarn do you need for an amigurumi?

For a small amigurumi (10-15 cm) 20-30 grams of yarn is enough — one ball of Happy Cotton or a little more. For large toys (30+ cm) you need 80-100 grams. The tutorials on Tessiland Studio always state the exact amount.

What hook do I use for amigurumi?

It depends on the yarn, but the rule is always the same: one size smaller than recommended. With Happy Cotton (recommended 3 mm): use a 2.5 mm. With Donny (recommended 3-4 mm): use a 2.5-3 mm. Stitches must be tight — the stuffing shouldn't show. All the hooks in the dedicated section.

How long does it take to make an amigurumi?

A simple amigurumi (sun, heart, pumpkin) takes 2-3 hours. An animal with legs, ears and a tail takes 5-8 hours spread over 2-3 sessions. The longest part isn't crocheting, it's sewing the parts together.

Can amigurumi be washed?

Yes, if you use cotton yarn (Happy Cotton, Donny). Hand wash in lukewarm water with mild soap, without wringing — lay flat and let air dry. With acrylic yarns (Bravissimo) you can also machine wash at 30° in a delicates bag.

Are amigurumi safe for children?

Yes, if you use safety eyes with a washer (they don't come off) and hypoallergenic stuffing. For babies under 12 months, replace the eyes with embroidered thread — it's safer. Tessiland yarns comply with the highest European safety standards.