Amigurumi is the Japanese art of knitting or crocheting small stuffed toys. Many people have a hobby to create these cute little creations, and crafters worldwide. If you enjoy making amigurumi, you already know that picking the right yarn is very important. The yarn you choose can make a big difference in how your project looks and feels.
There are many types of yarn available; it can be confusing to decide which one to use. The good news is that you don’t have to be an expert to find the perfect yarn. Here are five simple tips that will help you choose the best yarn for your amigurumi projects.
1. Select the Right Wool Thickness
The shape and size of your amigurumi toy depend on the thickness of the yarn. A thin yarn helps to produce bigger toys. Most people are advised to use sport weight or DK (double knitting) weight yarns for amigurumi crochet yarn. They are right for different crafts, as they are not too strong or thin.
Moreover, when you use a bulky yarn, the stitches tend to look spaced out, so the inside of the toy could be obvious. Alternatively, very thin yarn often takes more time and is hard to manage. Therefore, you should check the label on the yarn for its thickness or weight to select a suitable one for your project.
2. Choose a Yarn That Is Simple to Handle
Make sure the yarn for amigurumi is smooth and comfortable when you handle it. Some types of yarn are soft and simple to pass through stitches, but others are rough and might split.
If you are a beginner, acrylic yarn is a good option. You can buy acrylic yarn at a reasonable price in a variety of colors. It is both low-maintenance and suitable for machine washing. If you prefer cotton, you should try cotton yarn, as it maintains its shape and allows stitches to be seen well. They can hide stitches and lead to frustration during the creation of intricate amigurumi patterns.
3. Pay Attention to the Color and Texture
The colors you use influence the appearance of your amigurumi. Fun colors can make your toys more attractive to children. Soft colors are ideal for making gentle amigurumi. If you see intricate patterns in your project, make sure that the colored fabric should be used to stand out.
Moreover, another thing to consider is texture. For people who are learning to knit, smooth yarn highlights stitches, which helps them find mistakes easily. You can combine yarn with a soft halo texture in various sections to create fuzzy hair or fur.
4. Check the Yarn’s Durability
Amigurumi toys are usually for kids or given away as presents. Therefore, you should choose durable yarn, and it doesn’t pile up when being played with.
Moreover, materials such as acrylic and cotton are better suited for longevity as they are stronger than wool or silk. Acrylic yarns can handle both washing and regular use. Cotton’s strong durability and comfort make it a favorite choice for toys. Therefore, before making your purchase, read reviews on the Internet regarding amigurumi yarn brands.
