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Some of these little critters are so cute! They fall under the category called ‘amigurumi’. I’m not a huge fan of stuffed animals, but I find these really appealing. One good use I can think of for them is quiet play for toddlers and younger school age children. A couple of these would tuck nicely into a purse or pocket to be pulled out to entertain the kiddies when you want them to be quietly occupied.
Find this little one at www.lionbrand.com. Search for ‘amigurumi guy’ to find the free pattern.
There are lots of freebies at LionBrand’s website. Plus, you can find them on many blogs and at other free pattern sites. They work up very quickly and will use up those small balls of yarn and thread that you’ve got in your stash.
NOTE: For the safety of smaller kids, I’d eliminate any buttons or beads and stick to using thread for the critters’ features.
Here are some I find to be especially cute:
There are others to be found online. Try these sites:
http://crochetme.com/amigurumi
http://www.roxycraft.com/crochet_gabu.htm
Several links to amigurumi sites here:
http://mkcarroll.typepad.com/mk_carroll/2007/09/free-amigurumi-.html
Linda Powers says
Please help find out were I can buy books on how to do the stitches. I love the animals critters. I can’t find the books anywere. My address is 369 Partin Road, Cleveland, Ga. 30528. Thanks for the help. Linda
jd wolfe says
Linda,
LionBrand has lots of free amigurumi patterns on their site. This one happens to be there:
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/70580AD.html?noImages=0
check out the other amigurumi patterns while you’re there. you’ll be able to find what you want or adapt.
jd