Micro Size Maximum Cuteness
by Mychaelyn Michalec
(credit kimlapsley.blogspot.com)
(Credit Lam Linh on Etsy.com)
These micro-amigurumi prove that as size decreases the cuteness factor multiplies. What is Amigurumi? Amigurumi is the Japanese art of crocheting or knitting small stuffed toys in the shape of animals, dolls, and anthropomorphic creatures. The term is derived from a combination of the Japanese words ami, meaning crocheted or knitted, and nuigurumi, meaning stuffed doll. The history of amigurumi is a little vague but it seems to have developed in Japan in the 1980’s and became popular in the U.S. during the early 2000’s. The two main stylistic features of Amigurumi are that they are constructed with small tight stitches so that there are no gaps in the fabric of the yarn for the stuffing to be seen, and that it is created with a pervading aesthetic of overwhelming cuteness.
(Credit Su-Ami)
(Credit Lam Linh on Etsy.com)
(Credit Iogurumi on Etsy.com)
Fans of amigurumi love the simplicity of the craft. All the pieces are worked seamlessly in the round using a single type of stitch, the single crochet. Most pieces, though elaborate looking, are created by proficient crafters in a few hours. They take very little material to create and they are a portable project for crafting on the go. But “ami” fans are taking the skills to the next level by creating impressive micro versions of the craft.
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In the case of micro-Amigurumi, the tiny stitches are made using a .6 or even .4 mm crochet hook and sewing thread.
(Credit kimlapsley.blogspot.com)
The resulting craft looks as if someone is trying to crochet a cobweb using a pin. But the outcome of this microscopic endeavor as incredibly impressive. According to Kim Lapsley via her blog Kim Lapsley Crochets, creating a micro amigurumi isn’t as difficult as it appears, “Making and seeing such tiny stitches may seem impossible but it’s not. It just takes time and practice.” Among micro-amigurumi crafters there is a sense of pride and competition that results in the sharing of both the finished products and patterns to create your own version. Share sites like DeviantArt are a forum for those involved in this art to exhibit their creations and exchange patterns. Says Lapsley, “Trust me, when you balance that first tiny object you’ve made on your fingertip, you’re gonna feel like a champion.”
(credit Lam Linh handmadetutorial.com)
(Credit The Bittiest Baubles on etsy.com)
(Credit Pink Mouse Boutique on etsy.com)
Think you are up for the challenge? Try this video or check out this tutorial.
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