Yareah Magazine

Armina 

 - Why do you love designing amigurumi crochet patterns?

Most amigurumi patterns are not as difficult as they look and geared for the beginner, or classified as “Easy”.  If you have basic crochet skills, you can crochet amigurumi.  Most amigurumi requires a basic single crochet stitch.  All of my patterns are with detailed instructions and with step-by-step directions.  You will occasionally see some patterns geared to the advanced beginner or intermediate level. But again, if you take your time and thoroughly read the pattern before starting, you will be able crochet almost any kind of amigurumi.  I love sharing this craft with everyone.

- Is it good for health?

I find amigurumi very therapeutic.  Therapeutic in a sense where your mind and thoughts are absorbed in your craft.  I find it very relaxing and satisfying.

- Where have you learnt this technique?

I am self-taught in my crochet skills -I also do some knitting, although I prefer crochet.  I have been crocheting/knitting for over 20 years.  When I learned crocheting and knitting, I didn’t have all the luxuries we have today with online resources, like  “you tube”, blogs, etc etc.  I purchased a book, a single crochet hook and some yarn and  started. With lots of practice (and more practice) and trial and error, I was able to crochet basic things, and as I progressed, was able to create more advanced projects.  I cannot stress the importance of practicing – that is the only way you will learn. I am still learning and still exploring new techniques.  I feel you always have room to learn. 

- Can you explain us something about the origins of this Japanese technique?

Amigurumi originated in Japan, pronounced “AH-MEE-GOO-ROO-MEE”, the craze has hit almost every household today and everyone wants to create one of these adorable little stuffed toys.  Most Japanese patterns are graphs, not written with detail.   Amigurumi means “crocheted toy” – and you may see it referenced as “Kawai”, which means “cute”.  So with that said, Amigurumi is a “cute crocheted toy”.

- This issue of Yareah magazine is dedicated to the Romanticism, can you show us your most Romantic work and explain us its meaning?

My crocheted geisha is a dedication to romanticism.  The demeanor and delicate features of the geisha all have a sense of romance.  The femininity and graceful moves of the geisha, the intricate detailing of the makeup and costumes, it all dispels beauty and romance.  The large Geisha's name is Sakura, which means Cherry Blossom and the Mini Geisha's name is Etsuko, which means Joyful Child.

Geisha

My name is Armina and I live in Southern California.  I have one beautiful and talented daughter (writer, artist and musician) and one cat, Hollywood.  I love all kinds of crafts.   Although crochet is my first love, I also knit, sew, draw, design and make jewelry.  The amigurumi bug bit me a few years ago and I am totally in love with designing and creating these adorable stuffed toys.   I learned how to crochet and knit over 20 years ago – I am still learning and exploring this incredible craft.  I feel you always have room to grow.  My original patterns are currently available at http://apdesigns.etsy.com and http://craftsbyap.artfire.com.  Along with my retail patterns, I offer a large selection of free patterns on my blog, http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/ .   I am a member of Ravelry.com, a knit and crochet community where I offer a variety of my patterns, both retail and free. You can find me on Ravelry as Armina911.   I love designing, creating and sharing this wonderful craft with my fellow crocheters.