Build the Perfect Amigurumi Body - Step-by-Step!
The basic amigurumi body - whether round, oval, or cylindrical - is the foundation of every plushie you will ever make. Once you understand the structure, you can adapt any amigurumi pattern and even design your own shapes.
The Two Basic Forms
- Sphere - equal increases and decreases, used for heads and round bodies
- Oval/Egg - worked on a chain base, elongated shape for bodies, eggs, teardrops
How to Crochet a Sphere
A sphere uses the magic ring, increases to the widest point, straight rounds in the middle, then decreases to close.
Standard 30-stitch sphere:
MR 6sc [6] | inc x6 [12] | sc,inc x6 [18] | 2sc,inc x6 [24] | 3sc,inc x6 [30] | sc 5-6 rnds [30] | 3sc,dec x6 [24] | 2sc,dec x6 [18] | STUFF | sc,dec x6 [12] | dec x6 [6] | FO close.
How to Crochet an Oval Body
Start with a foundation chain instead of a magic ring for elongated shapes.
Oval on ch 8: Round the chain, sc in each stitch on both sides, inc at each end. Then work straight rounds. Decrease at both ends to close.
Getting Proportions Right
| Character Type | Head:Body Ratio | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic amigurumi | 1:1 to 1:0.8 | Large head is the kawaii style |
| Realistic animal | 1:1.5 | Larger body, smaller head |
| Doll/character | 1:1.2 | Balanced proportions |
Attaching Head to Body
Use the same yarn and a tapestry needle. Whip stitch through every edge stitch in a complete circle. No gaps - the head should not wobble at all when finished.
Build Characters from Scratch
Our 50+ No-Sew Amigurumi Bundle includes 50+ fully written patterns showing exactly how every body shape is constructed.
FAQ
Why does my sphere look lumpy?
Increases are not evenly spaced. Make sure you follow the pattern (sc, inc) consistently all the way around each increase round.
How do I make a teardrop body shape?
Work a sphere but add 2-3 extra increase rounds to make one end wider than the other before the straight rounds.
How do I adjust body size?
Add or remove increase rounds. Each increase round adds 6 stitches to the circumference. More rounds = bigger sphere.
Should the body be stuffed before or after attaching the head?
Stuff firmly before attaching the head. It is nearly impossible to stuff through a sewn-on head.
Can I use a different stitch for the body?
For amigurumi, always use sc in tight tension. Taller stitches like dc create holes that let stuffing show through.
