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Edward's Menagerie


Synopsis


  • The most diverse range of crochet animals ever published - from aardvark to zebra!
  • Perfect for beginners with only one crochet stitch to master - no special equipment needed and less than one ball of yarn per animal.
  • Make up to 160 different toys just by changing the yarn gauge and hook size.

Kerry Lord

Summary



Chapter 1: Introduction to Amigurumi Making

The first chapter of the book Edward's Menagerie starts off with an introduction to amigurumi making. The author, Kerry Lord, explains what amigurumi is and its origins. She also provides a brief history of the craft and its rise in popularity.

To help readers understand the basic techniques, the chapter includes detailed instructions on how to make a magic ring and single crochet stitches. These are the two fundamental techniques used in amigurumi making.

Example: To illustrate the magic ring technique, the author provides step-by-step illustrations of how to create a magic ring and insert stitches into it. She also explains the importance of using a magic ring in amigurumi, as it helps create a sturdy and seamless base for the amigurumi.

Chapter 2: Understanding Patterns and Materials

In this chapter, the author explains the importance of understanding patterns and choosing the right materials for amigurumi making. She emphasizes the need for using the right type of yarn and the correct hook size. The chapter also includes a guide on how to read and follow amigurumi patterns.

Example: To help readers choose the right yarn, the author provides pictures and descriptions of different types of yarn, such as cotton, wool, and acrylic. She also explains their properties and which type is suitable for different amigurumi projects. This is followed by a helpful chart that lists the recommended yarn and hook size for each project in the book.

Chapter 3: Essential Techniques

This chapter covers some essential techniques in amigurumi making, including increasing, decreasing, crocheting in the round, and changing colors. The author provides clear instructions and helpful illustrations for each technique.

Example: To demonstrate the increasing technique, the author uses the example of creating a circle. She explains how increasing gradually expands the circle, and by following the pattern, the circle can be turned into a ball, which can be used as the base for an amigurumi. The author also provides tips on how to keep track of the number of stitches when increasing and decreasing.

Chapter 4: Making the Bodies and Heads

In this chapter, Edward's Menagerie starts to take shape as the author provides patterns and instructions for making the bodies and heads of different animals, including a small teddy bear, a hippo, and a penguin. Each pattern is accompanied by colorful pictures of the finished amigurumi.

Example: For the bunny pattern, the author explains how to work in rounds and use the single crochet stitch to create the body and head. She also provides tips on how to stuff the amigurumi correctly and how to shape the ears and nose.

Chapter 5: Crafting the Arms and Legs

The next step in creating Edward's Menagerie is making the arms and legs of the animals. The chapter includes detailed instructions for creating different types of arms and legs, such as straight, curved, and jointed arms and legs.

Example: To illustrate the instructions for the jointed arms and legs, the author uses the example of a lion. She explains how to sew the body and limbs together using a button joint, which creates a movable joint. The author also provides helpful tips on how to attach the limbs securely without causing any strain on the amigurumi's body.

Chapter 6: Adding Personal Touches

In this final chapter, the author teaches readers how to add personal touches to their amigurumi, such as facial features, ears, tails, and accessories. She also shares tips on how to customize patterns to create unique amigurumi.

Example: To add facial features, the author explains how to use embroidery techniques to create different types of eyes and mouths. She also provides tips on how to embroider the features symmetrically and at the right spot on the amigurumi's head.

In conclusion, Edward's Menagerie is a comprehensive guide to amigurumi making. With its easy-to-follow instructions, helpful illustrations, and colorful pictures of the finished amigurumi, readers can create their own adorable animal menagerie. The book also encourages readers to use their creativity and personalize their amigurumi, making each one unique.