Book Review: Crochet Magical Creatures: 20 Easy Amigurumi Patterns by Drew Hil

Crochet Magical Creatures: 20 Easy Amigurumi Patterns by Drew Hill is an instructional book for readers of any age that want to try their hand at making magical creatures out of yarn and fluff. Learn about amigurumi, the Japanese art of crocheting stuffed toys, and use it to make a collection of cute, magical creatures. Easy patterns for critters like griffins and caticorns are simple enough for beginners while also offering plenty of fun for experienced enthusiasts. The book includes information on building your tool kit, clear step-by-step instructions to review essential crochet techniques, including the magic ring and single and double crochet, as well as fun stitches like the picot, and easy crochet patterns. Make dazzling dragons, marvelous mermaids, and more, with 20 simple amigurumi patterns that will have you crocheting with confidence.

Crochet Magical Creatures: 20 Easy Amigurumi Patterns is a solid instructional guide and well organized. I do like that the book includes a basic crochet refresher, because if you have put down your hook for awhile sometimes a refresher is good, and it is great instruction for newer crafters that might not know all of the terms and techniques yet. It also helps to clarify the stitches, because anyone that has studied crochet patterns from other countries might have discovered that even the basics like double and half double can mean different things in different countries. I learned that the hard way. I thought the patterns and instructions were all well worded and easy to follow. I also thought that the collection of creatures was nicely varied and there were some that were new to me. This is a fun and well done book on the topic for those getting started in amigurumi. For many crafters I think this will be a resource to borrow from the library or share with friends rather than a permanent addition to a personal library, but it is still very well done. 

Early Book Review: Knot Bad Amigurumi: Learn Crochet Stitches and Techniques to Create Cute Creatures with 25 Easy Patterns by Vincent Green-Hite

Knot Bad Amigurumi: Learn Crochet Stitches and Techniques to Create Cute Creatures with 25 Easy Patterns by Vincent Green-Hite is currently scheduled for release on November 8 2022. Create the unexpected: a smiling rocket ship, a jubilant glass of boba tea, a joyful acorn, a breezy beach hat, and much more. These modern characters spring from the imagination of crochet artist Vincent Green-Hite (Instagram: @knot.bad; TikTok: @knotbad), who loves sharing his designs and techniques with the world. In addition to beginner-friendly patterns, the book includes a rundown of basic materials such as yarns and hooks, step-by-step stitch tutorials, instructions for embroidering appealing faces, advice on working with color, and ideas for customizing patterns.  You’ll learn how to give your amigurumi a clean, professional look with easy methods for stuffing, attaching, and finishing pieces. Build your skills and become a more confident creative as you work your way through each charming pattern.

Knot Bad Amigurumi is a well written and organized instructional book. I thought the information of supplies and technique were accessible and understandable, and I think novice crocheters will find it that way as well. My favorite thing about this book is that the designs and projects are different. They are not the some animals, creatures, and objects that you can find in a hundred other books and online. They are also very cute. I am very much looking forward to trying my hand at several of these patterns. I will say that I learned something, because I never really thought about 'Yarn Punk" even though I never really felt like I fit in with the typical fiber arts folks, or really wanted to. I like the emphasis here on crafting the style and way you want to, without trying to fit a particular mindset or the expectations of others. I wholly support that idea and always have, and love seeing that individuality encouraged here.