So, just what is Amigurumi?

Wikipedia says amigurumi is the Japanese art of knitting or crocheting small, usually cute stuffed animals and anthropomorphic creatures".  Yeah, I had to look up anthropomorphic and it means ascribing human traits and emotions to non-human things.  Think Lightning McQueen and Towmater.

Amigurumi are generally constructed using single crochet stitches and  basic shapes and connecting them together. Spheres, cones and tubes are pretty much the foundation of any amigurumi with a few variations here and there as needed, (or wanted).

While there are many incredibly awesome amigurumi patterns available, I try to keep my patterns simple and cute.  Most of my patterns can be completed within a few hours.  Who has time to spend days creating one little varmint anyway?

[caption id="attachment_62" align="aligncenter" width="300"] My Grandson, Paul, calls this varmint a "bumblebee bear'!  He may have something                                      there![/caption]

Blessings~

Reny

 

Handmade Yarn Varmints, Gifting Ideas for Little Elves....

Hello again varmint lovers!   The holidays are steadily creeping up on us  and I have had some questions about the sizes of my handmade yarn varmints. Some ofyou are wondering if they would make good stocking stuffers.   The answer is 'Yes',!  Yarn varmints can be made in virtually any size you like!  The trick is to use different weights of yarn and/or size of crochet hook.  The lighter weight the yarn and the smaller the hook size, the smaller the finished varmint will be.  And, of course, if you wish a larger handmade yarn varmint, use a bulky weight yarn and a larger hook.  So, as you can see,  they would make great stocking stuffers, or baby crib toys, or party favors or whatever you can imagine using a yarn varmint for.  

[caption id="attachment_96" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Yarn Varmints 'Giggles' Free E-Book with Pattern[/caption]

If you sign up for my monthly Yarn Varmint newsletter, you will receive my free 'Giggles' E-Book which includes the pattern for the original Giggle monsters  I designed. These little guys are approximately 4 inches tall when crafted using worsted weight yarn.   

Make varmints in a variety of sizes and dress them in festive holiday hats to line up on the mantle or tuck under the tree!  I would love to hear from you and see pics of your varmints.

So let's get crafty and have those holiday projects done early this year!  And don't forget to include a pack of handmade yarn varmints in the mix. Just imagine the delighted giggles when the little ones see these cute little monsters!

Blessings~
Reny

The Blanket is Completed!

Well, I didn't quite make my deadline on this blanket, but I did get it done in about 1 week.  The caterpillar was kind of an afterthought.  Without him it's just another baby blanket, don't you think?  I also added a sweet scalloped edge to give an even softer look.  Oh, and did I mention that this blanket Is super soft and cuddly?  I think my friend will love giving it!