Which yarn should I choose for crocheting amigurumi?

Are you new to crochet or are you already addicted to little handmade stuffed animals ? Then you've probably already asked yourself this question: what yarn should you use to crochet a successful amigurumi? Don't panic, we'll guide you through the different fibers, thicknesses, and brands to make the right choices... and enjoy yourself from the very first stitch!

In summary: which wool should you choose for your amigurumis?

Objective	Recommended thread
Clearly visible and regular stitches	100% cotton (Catona, Katia)
Softness + ease of maintenance	Acrylic (Brava, Amigo)
XXL soft rendering	Caterpillar (First Perfect, Katia Bambi)

Why is the choice of yarn so important for an amigurumi?

An amigurumi is small, cute, but above all… structured! Unlike a scarf or a blanket, here we want a compact, regular and solid result, which does not deform with cuddles. And for that, the choice of wool plays an important role.

Wool that's too soft, and your blanket will sag. Fiber that's too fluffy, and you'll lose sight of your stitches. In short: the right wool is the key to success.

The 3 essential criteria for choosing well

1. The type of yarn: cotton, acrylic or blend?

• Cotton : This is THE favorite for amigurumis. It offers beautiful stitch definition, impeccable hold, and a clean finish. Perfect for beginners as well as for more precise projects.
• Acrylic : softer, lighter, it is well suited to large stuffed animals or creations for children (because it is washable and more flexible).
• Cotton/acrylic blends : a good compromise between hold and softness, especially if you're hesitating between the two.
• Fancy yarns (chenille, velvet, etc.) : they provide an irresistible visual effect, but be careful, they make the stitches difficult to spot.

2. The thickness of the wire

Yarn weight	Recommended thickness	Perfect for...
Fine (2.5–3.5 mm)	small hooks	mini amigurumis, keychains
Worsted (4–5 mm)	3.5–4.5 mm hook	standard size, easy to grip
Chunky / chenille	5 mm hook and +	big soft stuffed animals

💡 JOY Tip: For tight knits, always choose a hook one size smaller than the one recommended on the label.

3. Hold and resistance

A good yarn for amigurumi should:

• not to split too easily (help with fraying threads!)
• provide a firm hold (avoid flabby amigurumis)
• withstand washing (especially if it is intended for a child)

🏆 The best yarns for crocheting amigurumi

🧵 Recommended cotton threads

• Scheepjes Catona : a must-have. XXL color range, beautiful finishes, very pleasant to crochet.
• Katia Amigurumi 100% cotton : perfect kits for beginners, with matching balls of yarn.
• Hobbii Rainbow Cotton : excellent value for money, soft and well twisted.

🧶 Acrylic or blended yarns

• WeCrochet Brava Worsted : washable, durable, vibrant colors.
• Hobbii Amigo : available in XL and Giga for large plush toys.
• Bernat Premium or Handicrafter : readily available, perfect for simple projects.

🐻 Plush/chenille yarns for XXL amigurumis

• Premier Parfait Chunky Chenille : Extreme softness, perfect for cuddling plush toys.
• Katia Bambi : an ultra-soft finish, but a little technical to master (ideal for more advanced crocheters).

🧩 Our tips for a perfect result

• Use a smaller hook than the ball recommendation to tighten the stitches.
• Fill your creation with washable stuffing to keep its shape.
• If you are a beginner, choose a smooth yarn (avoid chenille) and a light color (the stitches are more visible).
• Test several yarns before finding YOUR favorite combo. Every project is different!

❓ FAQ

Can I mix different types of yarn in the same amigurumi?

Yes, but pay attention to the balance of textures and mesh size. Stay consistent for a harmonious rendering.

How do I know if the wool I have is suitable?

Make a small swatch using tight knit stitches. If your fabric is compact, with no visible holes, that's perfect!

Can I machine wash my amigurumi?

If you used cotton or acrylic, you can wash it on a gentle cycle. Avoid the dryer.

What is the best yarn for crocheting beginner amigurumi?

For a first project, it is advisable to choose a 100% cotton yarn, such as Catona or Katia Fair Cotton. These yarns have good hold, clear stitch definition, and make it easy to see what you are doing. At JOY!, this type of yarn is often included in beginner kits, to ensure a comfortable grip.

Can you use plush or chenille yarn to make an amigurumi?

Yes, but this type of yarn (like chenille) is best reserved for those with some experience. It makes the stitches harder to see, which can be a problem when increasing or decreasing. On the other hand, it's perfect for very soft plush toys, like those offered in some JOY! kits.

Do you need a special crochet hook for amigurumis?

A single metal or aluminum crochet hook is sufficient. The key is to choose a size smaller than the one recommended on the yarn label to ensure a tight knit. This prevents the stuffing from peeking out. In JOY! kits, the hook size is always adapted to the yarn chosen, allowing you to get started with peace of mind.

Can I wash my amigurumi once finished?

Yes, most cotton or acrylic yarns used for amigurumi are machine washable at 30°C on a gentle cycle. It's best not to tumble dry, especially if your creation contains iron-on elements or safety eyes.

Is it possible to modify an amigurumi kit (change the color, add elements)?

Absolutely. Even if a kit comes with the colors and elements needed for a specific creation, you are free to add your own personal touch: a scarf, a heart, pompoms... On the JOY! website, some kits are modular, and it is even possible to buy additional thread to personalize your creation even more.

How long does it take to make an amigurumi?

It depends on the size of the model and your skill level. A small amigurumi can be completed in 2 to 3 hours, while a more detailed model will require several sessions. The kits in the amigurumi collection at JOY! are designed to be completed in a few hours or less, to offer an accessible and rewarding experience.