Top 3 Tips for Crocheting Amigurumi

Crocheting amigurumi can be a fun and creative way to make adorable stuffed toys and figures, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Over time, I’ve picked up a few tips that have made my amigurumi projects turn out smoother and more polished. Whether you’re new to crocheting these cute little creations or looking to improve your skills, these three tips can make a big difference in your results.

1. Use a Smaller Hook Size for Tight Stitches

One of the most common issues people encounter when crocheting amigurumi is seeing the stuffing through their stitches. To avoid this, always go down one or even two hook sizes from what is recommended on the yarn label. For example, if the label suggests a 5mm hook, try using a 4.5mm or even a 4mm hook. This will result in tighter stitches, which helps keep the stuffing inside and prevents gaps between your stitches.

When I first started making amigurumi, I didn’t know this trick, and my early projects showed it. The stuffing peeked through the gaps, and in some areas, it even started to escape! Now, I make sure to use a smaller hook, and the difference is clear—no gaps and no stuffing slipping through. The stitches are neat, and the overall piece looks much cleaner.

2. Master the Magic Circle

Most amigurumi pieces are worked in the round, which means they start with a circle. The best way to start your crochet project in the round is by using a magic circle (also called a magic ring). While there are alternatives, the magic circle is a secure and neat way to begin, and it reduces the amount of sewing needed at the end.

When I first learned amigurumi, I tried other methods, but I often had to go back and sew the starting circle to close it up neatly. Once I learned the magic circle, it saved me time and gave a more professional finish. It can be tricky at first, but if you practice and get the hang of it, you’ll find it well worth the effort.

3. Learn to Identify the Right Side and Wrong Side of Your Work

When working in the round, it’s important to keep track of which side of your work is the "right" side. The right side is the part that will face outward on your finished piece, while the wrong side should stay hidden inside. If your piece starts to curl as you crochet, it can sometimes flip and end up inside-out without you realizing it.

Here’s an easy way to check: when you insert your hook into a stitch, it should be going from the outside of the piece toward the center. If it’s going the other way, your work is inside-out. By keeping track of this as you crochet, you can ensure that the right side always stays on the outside, which makes your amigurumi look neater and more polished.

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With these three tips—using a smaller hook, mastering the magic circle, and keeping track of the right side of your work—you’ll see a big improvement in your amigurumi projects. These small adjustments can help you avoid common problems like visible stuffing, loose stitches, and inside-out pieces, leaving you with well-made, adorable creations.

Happy crocheting!