So you want to make Amigurumi - Where do I Begin?

Understanding Your Pattern

Chances are the first time you look at a pattern it is going to look like a foreign language. Most crochet patterns are written in either US terms or UK terms; the stitches depending on the term could result in an entirely different stitch being used. It is important to pay attention to the terms and your pattern otherwise the result may be drastically different than what is pictured. 

For example, the terms single crochet "sc" and double crochet "dc" in US terms are two different stitches. Below shows an example of what your amigurumi would look like between the two.


single and double crochet examples - us Terms














Most patterns will start out listing the materials they used including hook size, yarn type, and some common explanations of stitches used. Common terms you may see are:
  • MR or MC - magic ring/circle
  • Sl st - slip stitch
  • sc - single crochet
  • inc - increase (2sc in the same stitch)
  • dec - decrease (insert hook into two loops and pull through to make one)
  • BLO - back loop only
  • FLO - front loop only
If you begin to read a pattern and the beginning stitch instructions tell you to "dc" double crochet, your pattern is written in UK terms. 

Most patterns will provide additional instructions on any special stitches and if you are crocheting in rounds. 

Reading Your Pattern 

There are a number of different ways patterns can be written based on a creators preference. Some individuals prefer to have more explanation while others prefer having concise instructions. 


There is no right or wrong way to write a pattern, however, many creators will have pattern "testers" to review and make sure that counts are accurate and if any additional explanation is needed. If you have purchased a pattern and do not understand it, do not hesitate to reach out to the creator for clarification. 

If the pattern was free, do not hesitate to reach out to crochet forums and the community for assistance to better understand a pattern. Do keep in mind that changing anything in a pattern such as hook size or materials, will alter the final product. 

Choosing Your Materials

Most patterns will tell you the materials they used such as hook size, safety eye size, yarn type, etc. By changing the types of materials used, you often will find a different result from the pattern. 

When it comes to Amigurumi there are typically three types of yarn used that will all result in a different size finished product: cotton yarn, acrylic yarn, and polyester yarn. 

It is recommended amongst most of the crochet community to take the recommended hook size on the yarn and size down by 2 when crocheting amigurumi. 

Here is an example of how different yarns and hooks can result in different sizes. The smaller Pokeball is made from cotton 8/4 yarn using a 2mm crochet hook and is about 2.5x2.5 in size. 

The larger Pokeball is made with polyester yarn and a 3.5mm crochet hook. It measures about 4x5 in size. 

Depending on the pattern, additional modifications may be needed to the pattern for it to look correct when size is adjusted to being larger. Along with the yarn type and hook size, tension will make a difference in your finished product as well. 

Which leads to another common topic that is debated: do you yarn over or yarn under? This is something we can dive into at a later date. 

Enjoy Your Finished Product

Chances are your first creation will not be perfect, there will be imperfections, but is important to be proud of your accomplishment. As someone who has been crocheting amigurumi for almost two years, every new pattern I create has imperfections, and the more I make that pattern, the better the finished product becomes. 


Share your finished work with friends and family, join a beginner Facebook group for additional support. Laugh at the disasters and beam with excitement when the finished product looks like the pattern results. Don't be afraid to challenge yourself with new patterns, and if you really enjoy it, who knows, maybe sell them at a craft fair. 

As with any craft, it takes time, patience, and practice. Embrace the mistakes and learn from them and utilize the community and resources to be better.



Don't forget to like and follow Crochella Creations on social media to stay up to date on the latest creations and ways to make a difference. 

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Location: Sheboygan Falls, WI, USA

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