🧶 Yarn Guide for Amigurumi
Welcome to my yarn guide for amigurumi! This guide is intended as an orientation based on my personal perspective. It is not the only way to choose yarn, but I hope it helps you understand the different types of fibers and how they behave when making amigurumis. Also, what appears under 'Cons' does not mean it is bad; for example, if you are looking for a yarn that is soft to the touch, for certain types of yarn this could be considered a disadvantage.
1. 100% Cotton Yarn
Cotton is a natural fiber that’s soft but firm. It has very little stretch, which helps amigurumi maintain their shape perfectly. Cotton stitches are neat and defined, giving a professional finish. Mercerized cotton also offers a subtle shine, making your toys look polished. It’s perfect for small or detailed amigurumis, especially those with color changes or intricate patterns.
Pros:
- Maintains shape well
- Doesn’t fray easily
- Machine washable and durable
- Wide variety of colors
Cons:
- Less stretchy, can feel stiff
- May require more effort if crocheted tightly
Tip: Use sport or DK weight cotton for small to medium amigurumis. Examples: Drops Safran, DMC Natura Just Cotton, Ricor Creative Cotton.
2. 100% Acrylic Yarn
Acrylic is a synthetic fiber that’s soft, lightweight, and slightly elastic. It’s perfect for cuddly amigurumis or larger toys because it’s easy to work with and very forgiving. Acrylic yarn is widely available and comes in countless colors, making it a versatile option for many projects.
Pros:
- Soft and plush
- Lightweight, dries quickly
- Affordable and widely available
- Endless color options
Cons:
- Less defined stitches
- Can pill over time
- Stretchier, so stuffing might show if stitches are loose
Tip: Use a slightly smaller hook than recommended to make the fabric firm. Examples: Red Heart Soft, Katia Planet, Himalaya Dolphin Baby.
3. 50% Cotton + 50% Acrylic (or a similar percentage)
Blends combine the best of both worlds: cotton’s structure and acrylic’s softness. The result is a yarn that’s soft, slightly elastic, and still firm enough for amigurumis. It works well for medium or larger toys and is washable, making it ideal for children’s toys.
Pros:
- Soft and comfortable to work with
- Keeps shape better than pure acrylic
- Maintains color well
Cons:
- Slightly less firm than 100% cotton
- Some blends may split while crocheting
Tip: Great for all-purpose amigurumis. Examples: Katia Alabama, Drops Cotton Light, Paintbox Cotton Mix DK.
4. Wool or Wool Blends
Wool fibers, like merino or alpaca, are soft, warm, and elastic. They add fluff and texture to amigurumis, making them perfect for animals or fuzzy characters. Wool is best for decorative pieces or collectors’ items rather than toys for babies, unless it’s soft superwash merino.
Pros:
- Soft and warm
- Lightweight and plush
- Great for textured or furry designs
Cons:
- Can cause allergies or itching
- Not ideal for babies (unless superwash merino)
- May lose shape if washed incorrectly
Tip: Use for special details or display pieces. Examples: Drops Merino Extra Fine, Katia Merino Basic, Lion Brand Wool Ease.
5. Other Yarn Types to Explore
Other fibers can add interesting textures and effects to your amigurumis:
Pros:
- Bamboo: silky, soft, and antibacterial — perfect for baby amigurumis.
- Velvet / Polyester: plush and shiny — great for large, cuddly toys.
- Recycled yarn: eco-friendly, textured — ideal for rustic or decorative amigurumis.
- Linen / Jute: firm and natural — best for decorative pieces, not soft toys.
Cons:
- Some may be harder to work with or more expensive
- Not all are machine washable
🪡 Final Tips
- Avoid very fuzzy or hairy yarns when starting — stitches can be hard to see.
- Use a slightly smaller hook for tight fabric to prevent stuffing from showing.
- Don’t mix fibers that behave very differently in one toy (like cotton and pure wool).
- Keep labels and notes on your yarn for future projects.
- Experiment — the best yarn is the one that feels good in your hands and gives your toy the look you want.