“It’s SO Cute!!” Or should we say, kawaii! Amigurumi originated in Japan and is the art of crocheting small stuffed toys. A key hallmark of this craft is the cute “kawaii” aesthetic. In recent years amigurumi has gained popularity with a variety of patterns, but where to start? 

In this class we will learn the basic principles, tips, and tricks that will help make your future amigurumi projects successful. Using a pattern designed specifically for this class, we will demystify the magic ring, practice color changes, learn the benefits of an invisible decrease, discuss yarn under versus yarn over, and much more. This class is perfect for those starting amigurumi for the first time and for those who have made projects and want to learn how to address gaps, holes and other challenges that can present themselves when crocheting these cute creatures. The class is taught by guest artist and instructor, Paula Hyatt.

Prerequisite: knowledge of crochet and the basic single crochet stitch.

*Materials must be purchased ahead of class time.

Materials:

• 3 colors of Rico Design Ricorumi DK cotton yarn
• US C/2.75mm crochet hook  
• 8mm safety eyes (optional)
• Scissors or snips, darning needles and locking stitch markers

Artist Paula Hyatt Bio:

Paula loves all things fiber art and especially Sashiko stitching. Though her formal education and work experience are in finance and business, creativity in finance is not advisable. Thus, Paula’s love of the fiber arts. While looking for a way to repair a favorite pair of jeans, Paula learned about visible mending and Sashiko. With her jeans successfully repaired, she was eager to learn more about this sustainable practice. This journey revealed an art that has centuries of tradition, and a multifaceted history as engaging as the art itself.

Since then, Paula has been practicing Sashiko for close to a decade. Originally self-taught, she later had the opportunity to learn from a Sashiko teacher from Kyoto, Japan. This experience helped her to better hone her knowledge of both the art, its history, and its current uses in daily life.  Paula has taught classes at the Fiber Arts Collective in Ashland and enjoys sharing Sashiko with others.

The Websters Class Policies:

• Pre-registration is required for all classes.
• Materials must be purchased in the shop ahead of class.
• Classes have a 4-6 person limit, depending on the class.
• Classes need a minimum of 3 students to run. If the minimum is not met by 2 days prior to class, students will be notified and credited for a future class.
• Cancellations up to 48 hours in advance will be issued a store credit.
• Cancellations within 48 hours are not eligible for a refund.