When I create amigurumi (Japanese crochet or knitted stuffed toys), my primary goal is to inspire customers to imagine stories beyond the amigurumi itself. However, I’m careful not to limit these imaginings. Instead, I focus on allowing customers to freely envision their own narratives. Here’s how I achieve this:
No Mouths
One distinctive feature of my amigurumi is the absence of mouths.
Adding a mouth can inadvertently impose a specific expression—a smile with upturned lips or a frown with downturned ones. By omitting the mouth, I avoid imposing a specific emotion on the amigurumi. Instead, I invite customers to imagine the expression that fits their own story.
Attention to Clothing
To further fuel the imagination, I pay close attention to the clothing of each amigurumi.
For this collection, I’ve dressed them in kimono to evoke a sense of Japan. In future online sales, you can look forward to amigurumi with different styles of clothing, each creating its own unique atmosphere.
Collaborating with Fellow Artisans
While creating a perfect piece solo is admirable, I believe in the power of collaboration. As someone whose primary skill is crocheting, I rely on the talents of others to enhance my creations. For instance, I work with basket bags and boater hats from craft band artists, and hair ornaments from resin artisans. This collaboration allows me to present a richer, more comprehensive world view that I couldn’t achieve alone.
In Conclusion
This is how I bring my amigurumi to life. By combining my skills with those of my fellow artisans, we create something truly special. I invite you to pick up one of these creations and immerse yourself in its unique world. Let your imagination run wild with the stories these little characters might tell!