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Magic Circle or Magic Ring

This technique takes a minute to get your head around but it's a game-changer for making toys. It lets you start crocheting in the round invisibly, without a hole that would need sewing up at the end. Check out Sarah-Jayne's video and photo tutorials over on the BellaCoco blog.

Luna the Moth from Crochet Society Box 16 - Buy digi mag & video tutorials here

A Firm Hand

One of the things that always surprises us when toys arrive here in the magazine offices is how densely-stuffed they are! Professional amigurumi designers don't scrimp on the stuffing, especially in areas with lots of detail like face and hands.

Bucket & Spade from Box 14 - Buy digi mag & video tutorials here

Magic Markers

When working in a spiral, amigurumi-style, it can be so easy to lose your place! We recommend always putting a stitch marker into the first stitch of the round so that you know where you're up to.

**Llama from Crochet Society Box 10 - Buy digi mag & video tutorials here

Save Your Scraps

Amigurumi is perfect for using up odds and ends of yarn. This little bunny was made using a yarn cake but could also be made using small scraps. Save up your odd balls and sort them by weight so that you can mix and match.

Bunny from Crochet Society Box 13 - Buy digi mag & video tutorials here

Invisible Decrease (inv-dec)

This is another fab stitch to learn which will make your toys look neater and more polished. It's a simple enough technique and of course, Sarah-Jayne has got you covered with a simple step-by-step video and photo tutorial.

Mini Macaron from Crochet Society Box 9 - Buy digi mag & video tutorials here

Take your Time

Just because a lot of toys are small, don't put yourself under too much pressure to whip out the project too quickly. Every stitch counts, so slow down a little and enjoy the process. When it comes to sewing up especially, going slow will get you the best results.

Reindeer from Crochet Society box 18 - Buy digi mag & video tutorials here

Put a Pin In It

If you're making a toy which consists of lots of small parts, make sure you label the parts as you go - it can be so easy to mistake a tail for an arm and end up with a slightly lop-sided little friend! Use a safety pin to attach a little paper label to your pieces.

Squirrel from Crochet Society Box 17 - Buy digi mag & video tutorials here

All Sewn Up

When sewing up your toys, placement of pieces is key. Tack them roughly in place first until you are happy with the placement. When you're ready, try to match the pieces together stitch-to-stitch. Use small sewing stitches, catching one crochet stitch at a time on alternating pieces.

Cute kitten from Crochet Society Box 8 - Buy digi mag & video tutorials here

Want to put your new skills to the test?

Crochet Now issue 84 is on sale now, and contains tons of adorable amigurumi patterns, including an exclusive set of Care Bears!