As an amigurumi crocheter, I enjoy discovering new methods to make crocheting easier and more enjoyable. Amigurumi can be intricate and detail-oriented. In this blog post, I will share five different tools that you can use to enhance your amigurumi experience. Some of these items you may already have!
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Safety Eye Tools
If you crochet amigurumi, you often need to attach safety eyes to your creations. However, doing this by hand can sometimes be challenging and may lead to hand pain. Fortunately, there are various tools available that can make the process much easier. I personally recommend two tools for attaching safety eyes: the Safety Eye Snapper and a safety eye jig. Both of these options are excellent for securing those stubborn safety eyes.
The Safety Eye Snapper was originally designed by Craft Easy Tools as a 3-in-1 device to simplify the process of attaching safety eyes to your projects. The Safety Eye Snapper includes the eye snapper tool, a holder, and one set of interchangeable nubbins to adjust the size of the holes on the tool. Additionally, a free pry bar is provided for removing the nubbins. On their website, you can find a wide variety of tools and even a fun case available for purchase to complement your Safety Eye Snapper.
The Safety Eye Snapper resembles a pair of pliers and features an ergonomic grip for easy handling. This tool is designed to work with safety eyes up to 40mm in size, as well as 18mm sinker eyes for blanket yarn and 20mm for chenille yarn. To use the Safety Eye Snapper, hold the tool and place the hole over the back of the safety eye. Position the soft pad on top of the safety eye, then squeeze the tool until the back is securely attached to the safety eye.
A safety eye jig is a small tool, typically made of plastic or wood, that features holes of various sizes. I often find these jigs displayed as handheld devices, like the Safety Eye Jig from Rustic Pixels, or even as keychains. Each hole in the jig is designed to accommodate different sizes of safety eyes. To use the jig, simply align the hole that corresponds to the size of the safety eye with the back of the eye, and then press firmly.
Clover Amour Hooks
A good crochet hook can significantly enhance your experience when crocheting amigurumi. My favorite hooks are the Clover Amour hooks, which I consider the best ergonomic crochet hooks available. Their ergonomic handles minimize hand fatigue, allowing for longer crochet sessions without discomfort. The smooth, tapered design of the hooks allows them to glide effortlessly through yarn, making them a pleasure to use.
Clover Amour hooks come in a range of sizes, making a complete set a worthwhile investment for any crochet toolkit. It's essential to have a variety of sizes on hand, as this allows you to easily pick up your hook and start working on your project with ease.
Wooden Dowel
Have you ever stumbled upon a wooden dowel sitting in your polyfill stuffing and wondered what it's actually used for? This unassuming wooden stick is my secret weapon for achieving perfectly stuffed amigurumi! I utilize the dowel to expertly push stuffing into those tricky areas of my creations that are hard to reach, such as small limbs or intricate features. By doing this, I can ensure that every part of the amigurumi is evenly filled, which not only gives it a plump and appealing shape but also helps avoid those frustrating flat or sagging spots that can detract from its overall charm.
If you don’t happen to have a wooden dowel on hand, there's no need to fret—chopsticks can serve as an excellent alternative! They are just the right length and sturdiness to help you guide the stuffing into even the most challenging corners.
Bent Tip Tapestry Needle
Bent tip tapestry needles are essential tools for anyone who enjoys crocheting, as they simplify the process of weaving in ends and adding intricate details to your projects. These specialized needles feature a large eye that accommodates various yarn types, combined with a bent tip that enhances functionality.
The bent tip design of tapestry needles fundamentally transforms how you approach weaving in ends. When using these needles, you’ll find that they allow for a more efficient and precise way to lift up your stitches. This is particularly beneficial when sewing together pieces or when you're looking to consistently incorporate smaller details into your work.
Personally, I’ve found that using bent tip needles has dramatically improved my sewing technique and the speed at which I can complete my projects. The curve of the needle effortlessly guides the yarn under the stitches, making the task of weaving in ends not only easier but also quicker.
I hope that these tools will greatly assist you in your journey to create high-quality amigurumi. With the right resources at your fingertips, you’ll find the process more enjoyable and fulfilling. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced crocheter, these tools can help streamline your projects and elevate your craftsmanship. Enjoy the creative process as you bring your unique designs to life!
