7 Best Yarn for Amigurumi

Amigurumi: the delightful world of crocheted creatures, where yarn transforms into cute animals, characters, and endless possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned crochet enthusiast or a curious beginner, choosing the right yarn for amigurumi can make or break your project.

So, what’s the secret to the perfect yarn choice? Let’s explore that together, and I’ll share some tips that will hopefully help you make a decision without the stress!

Product Name	Features	Price
JubileeYarn Amigurumi Select Yarn	Includes 4 skeins per pack; each skein weighs 50g and measures 125 yards (115m). Soft, durable, and versatile fiber suitable for a wide range of projects. Resistant to shrinking and fading; no ironing or bleaching required. Smooth texture makes it easy to work with for both knitting and crochet projects.	Check Price
Estako Velvet Chenille Blanket amigurumi Yarn	Made of 100% polyester for durability, softness, and long-lasting performance. Each skein weighs 100g and measures 120m (132 yards), ideal for medium to large projects. Suitable for US 10.5 (6.5mm) knitting needles and US 7 (4.5mm) crochet hooks.	Check Price
Bernat Maker JAM Yarn	Made of 72% cotton and 28% nylon for softness, durability, and flexibility. Each ball weighs 250g (8.8 oz) and measures 290m (317 yards), ideal for large projects. Perfect for blankets, pillows, rugs, fashion garments, baby items, and home décor projects.	Check Price
YarnArt Cotton Blend Amigurumi Yarn	55% cotton and 45% poliacrylic for softness, durability, and easy handling. Ensures even stitches, perfect for summer wear and delicate designs. Great for punch embroidery, clothing, accessories, and decorative crafts.	Check Price
MOJADREAM 3PCS 3.5oz Chenille Yarn for Blankets Amigurumi	Incredibly plush and gentle, perfect for baby blankets, amigurumi toys, and cozy projects. Each skein weighs 100g (3.5 oz) with a thickness of 4.5mm, ideal for warm, substantial creations. Maintains softness and fluffiness after washing without losing shape or color.	Check Price
Circulo Amigurumi Yarn	Safe for sensitive skin, ideal for baby blankets, garments, amigurumi toys, and accessories. 3mm yarn thickness provides structure while remaining flexible for detailed designs. Each ball weighs 125g (4.4 oz) and measures 278 yards (254m), perfect for medium to large projects.	Check Price
YarnArt Splash Variegated Sport Yarn	Made of 55% soft cotton and 45% durable polyacrylic for breathability, resilience, and structure. Perfect for summer garments, airy shawls, decorative items, and lightweight blankets. Smooth fibers ensure easy handling, consistent stitches, and professional results.	Check Price

Table of Contents

Why Does Yarn Matter for Amigurumi?

We’ve all been there spending hours on a project only to realize halfway through that the yarn you’re using is all wrong. Maybe it’s too thin and your stitches are too loose, or it’s too thick and your cute animal looks like a fluffy marshmallow. Yarn choice for amigurumi is crucial for the final look, feel, and durability of your project. So, what exactly should you be looking for?

The main factors that matter are:

Texture: Soft, but not too slippery.
Thickness: Not too thin that it’s hard to work with, but not so thick that you can’t make tight stitches.
Durability: You want a yarn that can hold up to cuddles (because we all know your amigurumi will get loved a lot).
Color: The better the color options, the more fun your projects will be!

Let’s break it down, shall we?

The Best Yarn Types for Amigurumi

When it comes to amigurumi, worsted weight yarn is the most commonly recommended. Why? Because it’s versatile and easy to work with. It strikes that perfect balance between being not too thick and not too thin. But of course, there are other yarn types, each with their own merits. Let’s take a closer look at a few popular choices.

1. Cotton Yarn: The Classic Choice

If you ask most experienced amigurumi creators about their go-to yarn, chances are they’ll say cotton yarn. It’s a great option for amigurumi because it holds its shape very well. You won’t end up with floppy limbs or saggy heads.

Why Cotton Yarn is a Favorite:

Durable: Cotton yarn doesn’t lose its shape easily.
Great Stitch Definition: Makes your stitches pop, which is especially important for intricate designs.
Perfect for Detailing: Great for those tiny, detailed features like eyes, noses, and tiny clothes!

However, cotton can be a bit more rigid than other yarns, so it may not be the best option if you’re aiming for something squishy and huggable. But if you’re going for a more structured and firm look, cotton yarn is a winner. Plus, it’s available in tons of vibrant colors, so go ahead and make those colorful unicorns!

2. Acrylic Yarn: The All-Rounder

Acrylic yarn is probably one of the most popular yarns in the amigurumi world. It’s soft, affordable, and comes in every color imaginable. Plus, it’s easy to find in most craft stores.

Why Acrylic Yarn Works Well:

Soft and Smooth: Feels comfy to work with and produces a soft finish.
Affordable: If you’re on a budget, acrylic is a great option.
Easy to Find: Almost every yarn store stocks acrylic yarn in a vast range of colors.
Machine Washable: No need to worry about hand washing your creations—just throw them in the washer!

That said, it can sometimes be a little too slippery, which makes it harder to keep your stitches neat, especially for beginners. But with a little practice, acrylic yarn is totally manageable and super versatile.

3. Polyester Yarn: The Squishy Option

Polyester yarn isn’t as commonly used for amigurumi as cotton or acrylic, but it can be an absolute game-changer. If you’re looking for a super soft and squishy amigurumi, polyester yarn is your best friend.

Why You Might Love Polyester Yarn:

Super Soft and Plush: Great for making your amigurumi extra huggable.
Gives a Plush Finish: Creates a soft and fluffy texture—perfect for animals or anything you want to feel cozy.
Durable: Polyester is strong and holds its shape really well, even after a lot of play.

On the flip side, polyester yarn can sometimes be tricky to crochet with because it’s a bit slippery, but the end result is totally worth it. If you’re making a plushie or a stuffed animal, polyester yarn is a top contender for that extra-soft, cuddly feel.

4. Wool Yarn: The Fancy One

Now, wool yarn is for those special projects where you want to level up. It’s not as commonly used in amigurumi as acrylic or cotton, but when used correctly, it creates some gorgeous, detailed designs.

Why Wool Yarn Might Be Right for You:

Warm and Cozy: Wool gives a soft, squishy texture that’s perfect for cozy amigurumi projects.
Stretchy: Adds a bit of stretch to your finished piece, making it more flexible.
High-Quality Feel: Wool has a luxurious feel that’s hard to beat if you’re making something special.

However, wool can be a bit more challenging to work with, especially if you’re allergic to it (which, unfortunately, I am!). It can also felt over time, which means it’s less durable for toys that will be played with often. But for something more decorative or special, wool is a lovely option.

How to Choose the Right Yarn for Your Amigurumi Project

Choosing yarn for amigurumi isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. Depending on the type of creature you want to create (think: fluffy bunny vs. firm robot), your yarn needs will vary. Here’s a guide to help you figure out which yarn will suit your project best.

1. Consider the Size of Your Amigurumi

Smaller Projects: For smaller, intricate projects, you’ll want a finer yarn like cotton or acrylic. It’ll help with the fine details and give you more control over your stitches.
Larger Projects: If you’re making something larger or more plush, consider thicker yarns like wool or polyester for that squishy, huggable texture.

2. Pick Based on Texture Preference

Do you want a smooth, sleek finish, or are you after something soft and cuddly? Here’s a quick rundown:

Smooth Finish: Go for cotton or acrylic for crisp stitches and a neat finish.
Cuddly and Soft: Polyester or wool will give you that soft, plushy texture—perfect for stuffed animals or anything you’ll cuddle.

3. Yarn Weight Matters

For most amigurumi, medium-weight yarn (like worsted weight) is the way to go. It gives you the perfect balance of being not too thick and not too thin. However, you might want to opt for lightweight yarn for finer details and bulky yarn for those cute, chunky creatures that just beg to be snuggled.

Yarn FAQs for Amigurumi Enthusiasts

Still feeling a little unsure? No worries! Let’s go over a few frequently asked questions that might clear things up.

1. Can I Use Any Yarn for Amigurumi?

Technically, yes, you can use any yarn, but the thickness and texture matter the most. Some yarns will create looser stitches, while others might be too bulky for small, detailed projects. You’ll want a yarn that allows you to create tight stitches for a smooth, sculpted finish.

2. Can I Mix Different Yarn Types?

Absolutely! Mixing yarn types can add depth and texture to your amigurumi. Just make sure the yarns are similar in thickness so that your stitches stay consistent. A cotton body with a polyester scarf? Cute and totally doable!

3. How Do I Avoid Yarn From Splitting?

If your yarn is splitting as you crochet, it’s usually because it’s too fluffy or the fibers aren’t tightly spun. Opt for smooth yarns or tightly spun fibers like acrylic for more control. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best yarn for your amigurumi project isn’t always straightforward. It comes down to what kind of texture, durability, and look you want to achieve. As a fellow enthusiast, I can tell you trial and error is your best friend.

The more you experiment with different yarns, the more you’ll understand what works best for your style. So, don’t stress about getting it perfect the first time.

Have fun with your amigurumi creations! Because, honestly, no matter the yarn, the most important part is that you’re having a blast and making something that brings joy. Now, go grab that yarn and get crocheting!

Happy crafting, yarn friends!