Amigurumi

[Dillie]

I am trying my hand at amigurumi but I am struggling a little.

I am trying the crochet method, but I am starting to wonder if I am using the right materials.

As I am just starting out so I don't want to spend a fortune, but the acrylic yarn is horrible to use! The result is very chunky and I am finding it difficult to crochet with. (I use a 3mm hook)

Would the DMC crochet thread be a worth while investment? I am looking at the natura DMC thread which has the same weight as 4ply.

I am also pondering on trying the knitted version as the crochet seems to cramp my hand up a touch.

I really want to give these a shot as I am planning to sell them for charity once I can get my head around it!! (I like a challenge! )

Is the hook the right size for the yarn?

I tend to use a 4 for pretty much everything like this (unless I'm sure it should be larger - I rarely go smaller). I've used all sorts of yarn, scavenged from car boot sales etc.

cotton double knit works well - or 4 ply if you want a smaller item

My friend makes them using acrylic yarn here, although some of her amigurumi I've seen look more cottony. Although I know nothing about yarn.....

I tend to use acrylic as I make for the littles in the family. I would agree that you may benefit from going up a hook size to what suits you, all that happens is the pattern gets larger. DK wool tends to suit a 4mm hook, if you get some 4ply then that can sometimes be ok for 3mm hook, sock yarn too.

I'm never as pleased with cotton as it makes a stiff shape, I like mine with a bit more squidge.

I love ana paula rimoli's patterns and have done almost all of them at least once. Great for using up odds and ends.