Tip: Changing Hook Size for Different Yarns
You may have noticed that most amigurumi patterns say “gauge not important”. This means that it’s OK not to check the gauge before beginning the project, as long as you’re not worried about the project coming out to be exactly the same size as the example. This makes sense since the patterns are for toys or other objects rather than apparel. What isn’t immediately obvious, however, is that you may end up with different gauges within the same project if you use more than one brand of yarn.
Just because a yarn label reads “worsted weight”, “medium” or “4″ doesn’t mean that all the yarns will work up to be exactly the same size with the use of the same size hook. The hook size recommendations on the back of the yarn can act as a guide, but keep in mind that most amigurumi projects use hooks that are two or more sizes smaller than the size called for on the yarn label. This is required to keep a tight weave and keep stuffing tucked inside.
To get around this, try working up a small swatch in each yarn and with each hook you intend to use. You’ll readily be able to tell the differences in gauge. If you want to keep a consistent look throughout the project, you can then use a smaller or larger hook when you change yarns as suggested by your swatches.
This variability can also work in your favor. Try using a finer worsted weight yarn and/or smaller hook for areas that you’d like to have appear smaller in scale or more delicate. This can be a great way to add contrast between the body and clothing or limbs of figures. Similarly, some worsted weight yarns have a more wooly appearance, while others have a smoother, shinier texture (the “soft” acrylic yarns). This can provide another source of contrast and will have maximum impact with the right hook size to produce the optimum gauge.
