How to choose the best yarn for your crochet amigurumi projects?

March 31st, 2025

So, okay! You’ve decided you want to learn crocheting! Maybe you've seen some great beginner-friendly crochet patterns or simply want to add this skill to your collection. That’s wonderful news! Crocheting is a great form of mindfulness — not at first, but once you learn the basics, your heart will calm, and your worries will melt away for a while. 😊

But choosing the right yarn can be overwhelming, especially as a beginner. Don’t worry, though! I’m here with some tips on how to choose the perfect yarn for your first crochet project.

1. Consider Yarn Weight

Yarn weight refers to the thickness of the yarn and affects how your amigurumi looks and feels. It influences the size of your project and the final texture.

Lightweight (DK or Sport Weight): Ideal for smaller, detailed amigurumi that require a tight stitch to hold their shape. This weight works well for intricate projects.
Medium (Worsted Weight): A go-to for most standard amigurumi projects and the most common choice for beginners! It's thick enough to create sturdy shapes while still offering a soft texture. I’d recommend starting with medium weight (usually labeled as 4 or worsted weight) because it’s easier to control and allows you to see your stitches clearly. Win-win!
Fine (Fingering or Lace Weight): If you’re aiming for tiny amigurumi with intricate details, this fine yarn is a great option. But it requires more patience and smaller hooks, so be prepared for a challenge!
Bulky Yarn: Bulky yarn is thicker and works up faster, making it a great choice for large amigurumi projects. However, it may not work well for fine details, so it’s better suited for larger toys or projects where size matters more than intricate stitches.

When choosing the yarn weight, think about the size you want your amigurumi to be. For beginners, medium weight yarn is typically the best choice for most projects.

2. Select the Right Fiber

The fiber content of your yarn greatly affects how your amigurumi will feel. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:

Acrylic: A popular and affordable choice for amigurumi. It’s soft, lightweight, and easy to care for, making it great for kids' toys. However, some acrylic yarns can become fuzzy over time, and not all are very durable. But they are widely available and come in a range of colors!
Cotton: This type of yarn offers a crisp texture and durability, which helps amigurumi hold their shape. It’s hypoallergenic and breathable, making it a fantastic choice for toys for babies and kids. Personally, I love cotton, but I have to admit it can sometimes be a bit hard on my hands during crochet (but that’s just my sensitivity 😊).
Wool: Wool is soft, cozy, and warm, but it’s more delicate and can be harder to care for. It’s perfect for projects that need texture and warmth, but it’s not the best choice if you want your toys to be washable and long-lasting.
Blends: Some yarns combine acrylic, cotton, and wool to offer a balance of softness, durability, and stretch. These blends are great options if you want the best of both worlds. I personally enjoy yarns like YarnArt Jeans and Alize Cotton Gold. They’re soft and come in a variety of colors!

For most amigurumi projects, acrylic yarn is a great all-around choice due to its affordability, softness, and wide availability.

3. Pick a Color

Color plays a huge role in your amigurumi projects. If you’re just starting out, it’s best to stick with solid colors that make it easier to see your stitches and follow the pattern. Once you gain more experience, you’ll have more confidence in working with darker or more complex colors!

Solid Colors: Solid yarns are easy to work with and will let your stitches stand out clearly.
Variegated Yarn: This type of yarn changes colors as you crochet, adding a bit of flair to your projects. However, it can sometimes make it harder to see your stitches, so I recommend using variegated yarn for larger, simpler designs instead of intricate ones, especially as a beginner.

4. Yarn Texture and Softness

The texture of the yarn affects how your amigurumi feels in the end. Soft yarn is important for making cuddly toys, while yarns with a little more stiffness will help your creations keep their shape.

Smooth Yarns (like acrylic or cotton) are easy to work with, making it easier to stitch evenly and keep your work neat.
Textured Yarns (like boucle or chenille) can be fun, but they might make it harder to crochet precise stitches, which is important when making detailed amigurumi. I recommend avoiding textured yarns for your first few projects!

If you’re planning to make amigurumi for kids, make sure the yarn you choose is soft and non-itchy for comfort during playtime.

5. Check the Yarn Label

Before purchasing yarn, always check the label! It contains essential info about the yarn’s recommended hook size, fiber content, care instructions, and yardage.

Recommended Hook Size: Match the hook size to the yarn weight for the best results. Most yarn labels will list a recommended hook size.
Care Instructions: If you plan to wash your amigurumi often, choose yarns that are machine washable. Acrylic and cotton are usually the easiest to care for.
Yardage: Be sure there’s enough yarn to complete your project. Most patterns will tell you how much yarn you need for each piece, so make sure to check before starting!

6. Experiment with Different Yarns

Sometimes, the best way to find your perfect yarn is by experimenting. Try working with different fibers and weights to see which one feels the best in your hands and works well with the pattern you’re following. You might even find that different yarns work better for different types of projects.

Choosing the right yarn for your crochet amigurumi projects is a balance of personal preference and practical considerations. Whether it’s the weight, fiber, color, or texture, each yarn type brings something unique to your creations. Remember, it’s not just about how the yarn looks, but also how it feels and performs in your hands. So have fun experimenting and happy crocheting! 😊