cover image Knot Bad Amigurumi: Learn Crochet Stitches and Techniques to Create, Customize & Design Cute Creatures

Knot Bad Amigurumi: Learn Crochet Stitches and Techniques to Create, Customize & Design Cute Creatures

Vincent Green-Hite. Quarry, $24.99 trade paper (128p) ISBN 978-0-7603-7677-5

“Almost any tangible item can be turned into a cute stuffed doll,” asserts Knot Bad blogger Green-Hite in his delightful debut that draws on amigurumi, a Japanese crafting style for making 3D dolls. He begins with a thorough overview of necessary materials, covering the standards such as darning needles, scissors, and stitch markers, and noting that his projects require “budget-friendly” acrylic yarns. Beginners will appreciate the close step-by-step look at basic crochet stitches and techniques—including slip stitches, slipknots, and turning the row—and needlework tips on changing yarn colors and sewing a hole shut. The 25 patterns that follow are all adorable and adorned with embroidered faces: there’s a purple smiling “Bubbly Boba Tea,” a blushing “Breezy Beach Hat,” a charming pink “Fragrant Flower,” and a “Mushy Mushroom” that’s full of personality. In several of the projects, crocheters will learn unique amigurumi techniques: the “Lush Lily Pad,” for example, is notably crocheted with flat pieces instead of in the round , and the “Thrilled Turtle” requires additional embroidery work on its shell. This fun guide is a must-read for crocheters of all levels. (Nov.)