We are on exactly the same page with this book. It’s amazing and a wonderful concept, but she made the base patterns much more difficult than they needed to be….and to even give it a “potty” hole….just not the best decision. Great review my dear!! ♥️
I love the review. I’m glad you mentioned the struggle with the legs. I thought it was just me, but I somehow made the body with the legs completely backwards. I really thought it was me and being a left handed crocheter. I struggled a lot and haven’t picked this book up again.
I had the same experience with the book, and although I did like my completed impkin, I hated that belly patch! I ended up crocheting some pants for mine to hide that 'belly' 😅 I am glad to have the book, and also appreciate the uniqueness of it, but probably won't make all one million versions 😁
Can I just say something about the Facebook group...I have never done an amigarumi before and I decided to make this one as my first. I know, I know. I'm crazy. Anyway needless to say I needed a LOT of help and the mods on the FB page were SO FAST in responding and so kind and supportive. Not one mod was like "start with something easier." I'm happy to say my impkin is almost done and it actually looks like an impkin!
How wonderful! I love to hear that!! It's nice to find a group of supportive yarny friends, so I'm glad the facebook group is so supportive as well. Thank you for sharing your experience! 🧡🧶🤗
I felt so validated when you talked about the slip stitch and chain 1. I was reading the patterns last night and I’m like “what??” I’m still new to this so i thought i just was just inexperience
Lovely review! Even though my experience differs, I actually watched it a second time, not only it is very good information-wise but your presentation is so interesting. As for me, prior to the Impkin my only experience with crochet was flat lace pieces for decoration, and the patterns I followed were fully charted. I had never made amigurumi but I wanted to test the pattern prior to gifting the book to somebody, so while I was waiting for the book to arrive I purchased the PDF version (which has a smaller set of options) offered on Ravelry for myself. I also had to get some suitable yarn and eyes and stuffing because, hey, newbie here. Also a hook. In my case 2.5 mm. (I only had crochet hooks in sizes between 1 and 2 mm.) I had to look up literally everything, starting from "magic circle" and "single crochet". (I knew how to do the simple stitches, just not what "SC", "HDC", etc. stands for.) Given all this, I loved the process and the little creature is so adorable! I do think that the fact that I have turned into quite an experienced knitter with a lot of understanding of what happens and why in knitting helps me with crochet as well, even though I don't have that much experience with crochet and zero for amigurumi making, so there's this to consider when reading my opinion - I, too, wouldn't call the book beginner friendly. Bottom line, there's a couple of more orders coming my way... More yarn, more eyes and a second copy of the book for myself to have the full set of options. I'm hooked. And my nieces want little adorable creatures, so I'll be making more. A lot more.
Love this! Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I'm happy to hear that the process of learning more about amigurumi and creating an impkin was so enjoyable. Crochet, knitting, and all other forms of creative expression are so unique to each individual so I appreciate you sharing your opinion! 🧡 Happy stitching!! 🧶
Omg. So I found you thanks to Megan's UA-cam videos not being available (anymore?) so I can't even figure out how to do this belly panel thing. I really wanted to like this book.
There are a couple crochet patterns by a few different designers that are variations of the impkin body, and remove the belly piece. All the impkin accessories and things also fit onto these bodies! If you need me to link those for you, I’d be happy to! 🧶🧡☺️ Or if you need any additional help, feel free to reach out.
@thesonnetsilence hi, rewatched this video as thought you mentioned who had done the body pattern tweaks--would you please link them? I went through a number of the reviewers and can't find the reference. I will not make that belly hole either .... maybe we are all too modest lol. Thank you!
Just found this video and wants to say that the Crafty Intentions UA-cam videos are all there - they were never removed. People just don't realize that a lower case L and an upper case i look the same. So instead of trying out both waya (because typing in UA-cam urls is weird af), y'all just give up and say "it's broken!"
I had never made any amigurmi nor could i read patterns. I learnt both from her Facebook group and from her books and patterns. Stitch markers, read everything word for word, consistent stitches and they turn out great.
I really struggled understanding how to add the arms and legs in, I did buy it, if you could explain how to do that it'd be great, also I'd love to know how to change the patterns to not have the slip stitch chain one as well
So when attaching the legs, I would pay close attention to how you insert your hook into the legs. There should be some photos in the book showing that step. It's been a while since I have made one, but if I remember correctly, you're supposed to insert the hook from the inside of the leg to the outside. As for the sl st, ch 1, I skip that altogether and then work the next row into my first stitch of the previous row.
Great thorough review! I have her Crochet Creatures of Myth and Legends book and I love it, I want to get this one soon. Whenever I see ami patterns with a slip stitch ch1 I just ignore it and work in the round LOL. I am like well, I will fudge it if it affects me later on but this is just how I prefer to crochet. I don't like the seam you end up with slip stitching!
Such a great review of this book! Also loving the name of this series. I just received this book for Christmas and I'm excited to make something from it. I also agree with you on that unfortunate magic ring placement on that one body type. Eep! If you ever do come up with a modification that eliminates that... Please do share! 😁
I also got this book for Christmas, as well as Crochet Creatures! I haven't gotten to try any patterns from them yet, but I'm super excited to in the future! I'll most likely just do a spiral crochet though, I've never done the slip stitch/ch 1 variation, and I didn't understand until your video how it even worked.
I am struggling so much with the body patterns because the stitches I make never seem to line up. Especially with the legs. The 1st stitch on hers seems to be in the back of the leg while mine tend to be in the front or the side and I don't know why. I have re-done them a million times and I have always had the same problem every single time.
Mine did that constantly as well. I found that the way I inserted my hook into the leg stitches made a big difference. There should be photos in the legs section of the book that explains this a bit more 🧡🧶 Just know I felt your pain too! 😆
New subscriber. I've been making Impkins for a few months now. I understand how each crocheter likes different concepts. I do like the chain 1 sl st method. I also didn't like how they attached the legs and arms. I attached them separately. So many options in this book, I can be making these for a long time to come.
I will be honest I do not understand this trend but they are cute. The more I hear about this book the more I am seeing why designers are making their own bodies. Julie at KSMom Crochets made the cutest little bodies that work with the book’s clothes and things. By the way I loved the Bugs Life wink. Such an underrated movie. Superb review!
I have definitely been looking for other bodies, so I'll will check out the ones from KSMom! Bugs life was one of my favorites as a kid, super underrated for sure! Thank you my friend 🤗🧡😊🧶
Thank you so much for the interview. I was thinking that my granddaughter would love this book but she is such a beginner at crochet and I appreciate the detailed information. It's so true although it's so cute it may not be for someone... She probably would have tried so hard because I bought it for her so I appreciate that she will not be going crazy!
You’re welcome! I’m so glad it helped. I can only imagine a beginner would be very overwhelmed and frustrated. A good book for more advanced crocheters but there are much better beginner options out there ☺️🫶🧡
I disagree. I find that with the slip stitch, chain 1 join, I don't need to use stitch markers, and counting rows is easier because I can barely see the seam. And really, the pattern reminds you constantly if you are slip stitching or continuing in a spiral, it is written into each line of the pattern. I don't like to make standing impkins mostly because I haven't been able to balance them to stand independently, and a plus is that I don't have to make an extra belly piece. I do agree that this book is not for beginners, though, and anyone wondering if they should get this book should try out one of her other patterns on Ravelry or Etsy. But, then again, I love how intricate her patterns are. It keeps me engaged and I don't get bored like I would with a simpler pattern. I have included some of her techniques and special stitches into some of my own patterns that I have written and published.
Also you don't need to use a 4 mm hook and worsted weight yarn. I use a 3.5 mm hook with my worsted weight all the time, and the stuffing doesn't show through. I have made her patterns in sock weight, and there are people that make her patterns in blanket yarn all the time.
New to ami. bought the book. Will try getting comfortable with making ami before I attempt the book. But I can't wait until I'm ready for this book and the mythical creatures book.
Thank you for the review! I found you when searching help for “belly”, I have tried three times and belly ends up in the back and still can’t figure out what I’m doing wrong
Thanks for the review! The belly hole. 🤣 I’ve looked at the book several times because it is so whimsical, but I’ve yet to purchase it. I think I will start with one of her Etsy patterns 1st. Have a great day! 🤟🏻
I think purchasing one of her Etsy patterns first is a fantastic idea! You can get a feel of her patterns and see if you enjoy crocheting them without committing to a buying the whole book! Thank you so much! You as well 🧡☺️🤗
I got the Impkins book because they are totally cute (and I had a gift card, so...). I followed a youtube tutorial to learn how to make a sphere. Pretty proud of myself for that one! That was done in the round, so I'm curious how you adapted her pattern to sew the body in the round. Because that makes more sense to me than what is in her patterns. I am a fairly new crocheter.
I can't quite remember exactly how I did it, but for the body, I basically started making a sphere and when I got to the area where I would have to sew on the belly, I just did a series of increases in that area over a few of the rounds to give that pot belly look. If you need more help, feel free to reach out, and I can try and whip up an alternate pattern for you 😊
I'm honestly surprised at how much people don't like or are unfamiliar with the slip stitch, chain 1 method. This is how I learnt to crochet in the round (doilies, granny squares etc) before I became familiar with the more popular continuous round style. Both have their pros and cons, that's for sure. I agree absolutely on that belly patch. It's so weird.
Does anyone know what Megan meant by make a chain and slip stitch to beginning to kind of make a magic ring but then crochet into the ring but not the foundation stitches??
I believe she is saying is not stitch into the actual stitches, but to crochet into the hole the ring makes. So picture it like a donut, crochet into the donut center! Lol I hope that makes sense! 🧡🍩🧶
I just discovered your channel! Wow love your work! I did 2 impkins the one with ehw ponty mushroom hat , and one standing body type 2. I did love the creative possibility, yup the belly is a bit weird, however I did crochet in a 2.5 hook, so it's not so bad
I just got this book and haven't made anything from it yet, but your thoughts are so helpful! I think I'll just adapt it to being in the round, and honestly I will likely alter the standing tummy pattern as I go because that little bit is unsightly. There is a similar book by Kerry Lord called the Imaginarium with the mix and match monster bits styling, and I think that the two books combined would be sensational. If you haven't checked out that book yet, you definitely should!
How you insert your hook into the leg really makes an impact on how they are oriented in the end. I recommend double checking where you insert your hook. Page 22 actually has a picture at the botton of the page illustrating this. In order for the legs to be attached correctly, you actually insert your hook into the wrong side (inside) of the leg, and then insert your hook into the right side (outside) of the body. Hopefully that helps solve the problem!
I got the book a couple of days ago. My family have started putting in their request for their Impkins, but im already trying to think of ways around the belly piece and im really hoping ignoring the slip stitch, ch1 is going to work out ok as not only do i find it a pain, i dont like the look of it.. Love your channel by the way and this book review was great ❤
Thank you so much! I found ignoring the sl st, ch 1 worked out just fine. Maybe mine don't have the exact "intended" shape, but I'm happy enough with the finished Impkins that are just worked in a spiral. I just added a few extra increases to the belly portion to get my st count up to the indicated number, and it looks much better! 🧶😊🙌 Good luck with your Impkins!
I accidentally bought a digital copy awhile ago and ended up putting the book down after creating my first impkin. I'd never seen a crochet pattern where you have to study the glossary before crocheting. I don't know if it's because I'm self taught, but I didn't realize that the "Sl st, Ch1 " technique meant starting the stitch for the next row meant starting in the slip stitch. I'm trying again and hoping that by doing it her way, the belly won't keep becoming the butt.
Also as a self taught and rather newer crocheter, the Sl st ch 1 was so confusing for me too. I hope that this next go around works out well and you’re able to make an adorable impkin! 🧡🤗🧶
I agree with all of your comments!😅 Great books! But you need to make your adjustments to make it work for your preferences. I have enough crochet experience to do that.
Just started the video, haven't seen your opinion yet, I'm here because the video links in the book all say unavailable for me so far, and some of the written instructions do not make any sense to me. I swear anytime I buy a crochet book, the patterns are so confusing but if I buy off Etsy, where I can contact the writer, I have zero issues lol
Oh no! I'm sorry the videos are not working for you. Especially since the patterns are not the easiest, that's really frustrating. Love the support designers offer through their individual patterns! Definitely prefer individual patterns over books sometimes. 🧡🧶
I will say as someone whos a huge fan of her patterns I wouldn't say their impkin books are a great reflection of what the patterns are like. They are amazing and wonderful but in comparison to the amazing dragons, octopuses, unicorns, ect I don't think it's a good book to really enjoy how amazing her patterns are. I enjoyed making the Impkins, they are amazing but they are personally just my least favourites of hers. Her other book would be a very interesting thing to look at and compare to Impkins if you'd be interested. I understand completely if not. I liked this review a lot, it's a great review that mentions and brings up a lot of good points.
Another thing to be mindful of is when you don't do the slst ch 1 correctly it does cause some complications with the pattern. It can cause pieces not to line up, it can create a ugly seam, ect. The Facebook group explains super well why it's good to learn how to slst and ch 1 correctly.
Oh, thank you! I still have the Cthulu pattern and a few others on my wishlist, so I will keep that in mind! I am still very interested in her Monsters book, so I think perhaps comparing that one, as well as perhaps a solo pattern to the Impkins is a fantastic idea! Thank you so much! I'm glad you enjoyed the review!
As a beginner I am STRUGGLING to figure out how to make progress through attaching the legs to the body piece. Wish I would've watched the review before getting the book. Maybe I'll have to try to come back to it eventually 🥲
I'm sorry you're struggling! I know the feeling. That part is definitely tricky for new crocheters. I hope you give it another try when you are ready! 🧶🧡
I have Megan’s Crochet Creatures of Myth and Legend. I made the feathered serpent from that. It was very detailed and took hours. Her patterns are unique, but I decided that serpent would be a one of a kind. That said, I do appreciate the options in her books to make different variations, and I learned some new stitches.
Ohhh! I bet the serpent turned out great! I totally understand why it would be one of a kind, though. I 100% agree. Her patterns are unique and creative, requiring lots of dedication and work.
I also have and love this book and I also made the strawberry one! However, it was definitely challenging and i have been crocheting for a long time. I also ended up doing the spiral method because I couldn't figure out the slip stitch one. It still turned out fine. I also struggled with attaching parts and getting them to be the right direction. This book requires A LOT of focus but i will be making more because they are just too cute not too! 😊 I also have the dragon book and may try that once I get used to her patterns lol.
Its does require a lot of focus for sure. I love to hear that you enjoy making them! The finished impkins do turn out so dang cute! Can't wait to hear about your projects you make from the dragon book. ☺🧡🧶
I have this book and love it. I don't do the slip stitch, I just work it in the round. The belly... it bothered me slightly at first, but now it's grown on me. Especially since I make sure it's very tightly closed, so it doesn't look as weird to me now. I've had a couple people see the ones I've made and want me to make them one or 5. I do have a 3 year old and ADHD so I can never remember what stitch I'm on or how to do the special stitches so yes, I'm constantly recounting and flipping back to see how tomake the special stitches. I do love the versatility though. I can really make whatever kind of creature I want and I love that.
I also have Megan’s books, both of them. I hate the belly patch and I do not use the slat ch1 join but really do like the way my little impkin looks. Have not made a dragon yet but some day … maybe?
I just bought this book and found the video after. I'm excited to start! I really don't like that belly hole so I'll try to find a work around for it. I've already got some patterns she's made (dragons!) so I'm familiar with her crocheting style. I use 3.5mm hook and I crochet in the round instead and the dragon I've made so far turned out fine (honestly I'm a little biased but I think in some respects my dragon looks a bit better than a lot of the examples because you can't see the cotton and it doesn't have the line from the slip stitch chain 1). I plan to do the same with these little guys :) I also use the yarn under technique to make my stitches even tighter! My only issue is with getting the larger safety eyes to fit. Anyway thanks for the review, I'm excited to get started :)
Awesome! After the first few, I decided to work in the round, and I, too, prefer how they look over the sl st seam! I hope you have fun with them because they are cute!! 🧡🧶😊
@@thesonnetsilenceHonestly I'm already obsessed. I'm almost finished with my first one, just waiting for the eyes to come in the mail (ordered some fancy hand painted ones) and I have a few little pieces left to make like the ears. Getting started on my 2nd one while that one is still a WIP right now 🤣
What do you mean put the hook in on the wrong side? Im having the same issue whodid you fix it? Any help would ve appreciated. At this point im desperate. Lol
For sure! I would be happy to help. Which body position are you having issues with? The sitting or the standing? Also, feel free to shoot me an email or even an instrgram message if you need to. I'll gladly try and help!
I like the look of it in front as the lines of crochet are evenly spaced and not off centre when working continuous, but it does leave a seam, which isn't that great.
We are on exactly the same page with this book. It’s amazing and a wonderful concept, but she made the base patterns much more difficult than they needed to be….and to even give it a “potty” hole….just not the best decision. Great review my dear!! ♥️
100% The base patterns are way more difficult than they need to be for sure! Thank you so much, my friend. 🧡🧶😂
Making my first now and was thinking the exact same thing 😅
I love the review. I’m glad you mentioned the struggle with the legs. I thought it was just me, but I somehow made the body with the legs completely backwards. I really thought it was me and being a left handed crocheter. I struggled a lot and haven’t picked this book up again.
So glad you love the review! I don't think I'll pick it up after this either. 🧡🧶🤗
This just happened to me and I was looking for some tips on what to do 😢
I'm right handed and it still came out backwards
I just got the book & have my first Impkin planned out, thanks for your review!
Have fun! 🧡🧶 I appreciate you!
I had the same experience with the book, and although I did like my completed impkin, I hated that belly patch! I ended up crocheting some pants for mine to hide that 'belly' 😅
I am glad to have the book, and also appreciate the uniqueness of it, but probably won't make all one million versions 😁
Ohhh! Pants are an excellent idea! We are 100% on the same page haha!
Can I just say something about the Facebook group...I have never done an amigarumi before and I decided to make this one as my first. I know, I know. I'm crazy. Anyway needless to say I needed a LOT of help and the mods on the FB page were SO FAST in responding and so kind and supportive. Not one mod was like "start with something easier." I'm happy to say my impkin is almost done and it actually looks like an impkin!
How wonderful! I love to hear that!! It's nice to find a group of supportive yarny friends, so I'm glad the facebook group is so supportive as well. Thank you for sharing your experience! 🧡🧶🤗
I am unable to find the Facebook group for help :( @@thesonnetsilence
What is the facebook group called??
I felt so validated when you talked about the slip stitch and chain 1. I was reading the patterns last night and I’m like “what??” I’m still new to this so i thought i just was just inexperience
So glad you feel validated! It is a technique you do see from time to time, but definitely not something I do often, or like to do! 😄🧡🤗🧶
Amigurumi book reviews are some of my favourite videos to watch, really looking forward to seeing more in the series 😊
Yay! I can’t wait to do more! Thank you 🤗☺️🧡
Lovely review! Even though my experience differs, I actually watched it a second time, not only it is very good information-wise but your presentation is so interesting.
As for me, prior to the Impkin my only experience with crochet was flat lace pieces for decoration, and the patterns I followed were fully charted. I had never made amigurumi but I wanted to test the pattern prior to gifting the book to somebody, so while I was waiting for the book to arrive I purchased the PDF version (which has a smaller set of options) offered on Ravelry for myself. I also had to get some suitable yarn and eyes and stuffing because, hey, newbie here. Also a hook. In my case 2.5 mm. (I only had crochet hooks in sizes between 1 and 2 mm.) I had to look up literally everything, starting from "magic circle" and "single crochet". (I knew how to do the simple stitches, just not what "SC", "HDC", etc. stands for.) Given all this, I loved the process and the little creature is so adorable! I do think that the fact that I have turned into quite an experienced knitter with a lot of understanding of what happens and why in knitting helps me with crochet as well, even though I don't have that much experience with crochet and zero for amigurumi making, so there's this to consider when reading my opinion - I, too, wouldn't call the book beginner friendly.
Bottom line, there's a couple of more orders coming my way... More yarn, more eyes and a second copy of the book for myself to have the full set of options. I'm hooked. And my nieces want little adorable creatures, so I'll be making more. A lot more.
Love this! Thank you so much for sharing your experience.
I'm happy to hear that the process of learning more about amigurumi and creating an impkin was so enjoyable. Crochet, knitting, and all other forms of creative expression are so unique to each individual so I appreciate you sharing your opinion!
🧡
Happy stitching!! 🧶
Omg. So I found you thanks to Megan's UA-cam videos not being available (anymore?) so I can't even figure out how to do this belly panel thing. I really wanted to like this book.
There are a couple crochet patterns by a few different designers that are variations of the impkin body, and remove the belly piece. All the impkin accessories and things also fit onto these bodies! If you need me to link those for you, I’d be happy to! 🧶🧡☺️ Or if you need any additional help, feel free to reach out.
@thesonnetsilence hi, rewatched this video as thought you mentioned who had done the body pattern tweaks--would you please link them? I went through a number of the reviewers and can't find the reference. I will not make that belly hole either .... maybe we are all too modest lol. Thank you!
Just found this video and wants to say that the Crafty Intentions UA-cam videos are all there - they were never removed. People just don't realize that a lower case L and an upper case i look the same. So instead of trying out both waya (because typing in UA-cam urls is weird af), y'all just give up and say "it's broken!"
@@thesonnetsilence I would appreciate the links to these videos as well! Thank you!
Thank you for mentioning me and my cover in your video! So glad you like it ❤❤❤
🧡📸🧡
I had never made any amigurmi nor could i read patterns. I learnt both from her Facebook group and from her books and patterns. Stitch markers, read everything word for word, consistent stitches and they turn out great.
Love to hear that! Her Facebook community sounds great for sure.
I totally agree with everything she’s saying. I’m definitely following her and the creator of the book!
🧶🧡🤗
I just bought two of the books this afternoon.... they arrive tomorrow, and i can't wait! It was nice to find someone who also uses handspun!
I hope you have a great time with the patterns!! 🧡
I purchased the book at Joann fabric and thought, 'Oh look, SacBoys!!' So fun to hear you say that! Thanks for your review!
Haha yes!! That's my favorite thing about it!!! 😂🧡🧶🧡
I really struggled understanding how to add the arms and legs in, I did buy it, if you could explain how to do that it'd be great, also I'd love to know how to change the patterns to not have the slip stitch chain one as well
So when attaching the legs, I would pay close attention to how you insert your hook into the legs. There should be some photos in the book showing that step. It's been a while since I have made one, but if I remember correctly, you're supposed to insert the hook from the inside of the leg to the outside. As for the sl st, ch 1, I skip that altogether and then work the next row into my first stitch of the previous row.
Great thorough review! I have her Crochet Creatures of Myth and Legends book and I love it, I want to get this one soon. Whenever I see ami patterns with a slip stitch ch1 I just ignore it and work in the round LOL. I am like well, I will fudge it if it affects me later on but this is just how I prefer to crochet. I don't like the seam you end up with slip stitching!
Thank you! I absolutely agree. Love to hear how much you enjoy the Creatures book, and hope you get to make your own impkins very soon! 🧡🧶🤗
Such a great review of this book! Also loving the name of this series. I just received this book for Christmas and I'm excited to make something from it. I also agree with you on that unfortunate magic ring placement on that one body type. Eep! If you ever do come up with a modification that eliminates that... Please do share! 😁
Thank you, and Absolutely! I can’t wait to see your impkins, and let me know what you think of the book! 🧡🧶🤗
I also got this book for Christmas, as well as Crochet Creatures! I haven't gotten to try any patterns from them yet, but I'm super excited to in the future! I'll most likely just do a spiral crochet though, I've never done the slip stitch/ch 1 variation, and I didn't understand until your video how it even worked.
I am struggling so much with the body patterns because the stitches I make never seem to line up. Especially with the legs. The 1st stitch on hers seems to be in the back of the leg while mine tend to be in the front or the side and I don't know why. I have re-done them a million times and I have always had the same problem every single time.
Mine did that constantly as well. I found that the way I inserted my hook into the leg stitches made a big difference. There should be photos in the legs section of the book that explains this a bit more 🧡🧶 Just know I felt your pain too! 😆
New subscriber. I've been making Impkins for a few months now. I understand how each crocheter likes different concepts. I do like the chain 1 sl st method. I also didn't like how they attached the legs and arms. I attached them separately. So many options in this book, I can be making these for a long time to come.
Thanks for the subscription! There really are unlimited options, and I love how creative you can get with the impkins!! 🧡🧶🤗
I will be honest I do not understand this trend but they are cute. The more I hear about this book the more I am seeing why designers are making their own bodies. Julie at KSMom Crochets made the cutest little bodies that work with the book’s clothes and things. By the way I loved the Bugs Life wink. Such an underrated movie.
Superb review!
I have definitely been looking for other bodies, so I'll will check out the ones from KSMom! Bugs life was one of my favorites as a kid, super underrated for sure! Thank you my friend 🤗🧡😊🧶
Thank you so much for the interview. I was thinking that my granddaughter would love this book but she is such a beginner at crochet and I appreciate the detailed information. It's so true although it's so cute it may not be for someone... She probably would have tried so hard because I bought it for her so I appreciate that she will not be going crazy!
You’re welcome! I’m so glad it helped. I can only imagine a beginner would be very overwhelmed and frustrated. A good book for more advanced crocheters but there are much better beginner options out there ☺️🫶🧡
I disagree. I find that with the slip stitch, chain 1 join, I don't need to use stitch markers, and counting rows is easier because I can barely see the seam. And really, the pattern reminds you constantly if you are slip stitching or continuing in a spiral, it is written into each line of the pattern.
I don't like to make standing impkins mostly because I haven't been able to balance them to stand independently, and a plus is that I don't have to make an extra belly piece.
I do agree that this book is not for beginners, though, and anyone wondering if they should get this book should try out one of her other patterns on Ravelry or Etsy.
But, then again, I love how intricate her patterns are. It keeps me engaged and I don't get bored like I would with a simpler pattern. I have included some of her techniques and special stitches into some of my own patterns that I have written and published.
Also you don't need to use a 4 mm hook and worsted weight yarn. I use a 3.5 mm hook with my worsted weight all the time, and the stuffing doesn't show through. I have made her patterns in sock weight, and there are people that make her patterns in blanket yarn all the time.
I appreciate hearing your perspective! So glad you enjoy the patterns. They are incredible for sure!
New to ami. bought the book. Will try getting comfortable with making ami before I attempt the book. But I can't wait until I'm ready for this book and the mythical creatures book.
Yay! I’m excited for you! Hope you enjoy. 🧶🧡🤗
Thank you for the review! I found you when searching help for “belly”, I have tried three times and belly ends up in the back and still can’t figure out what I’m doing wrong
have you figured it out? if not, remember to keep your stitch count in mind when attaching the piece.
I still struggle with it, too. I think how I insert my hook into the leg makes a huge difference. Hope you were able to fix it! 🧶🧡
Thanks for the review! The belly hole. 🤣 I’ve looked at the book several times because it is so whimsical, but I’ve yet to purchase it. I think I will start with one of her Etsy patterns 1st. Have a great day! 🤟🏻
I think purchasing one of her Etsy patterns first is a fantastic idea! You can get a feel of her patterns and see if you enjoy crocheting them without committing to a buying the whole book!
Thank you so much! You as well 🧡☺️🤗
I got the Impkins book because they are totally cute (and I had a gift card, so...). I followed a youtube tutorial to learn how to make a sphere. Pretty proud of myself for that one! That was done in the round, so I'm curious how you adapted her pattern to sew the body in the round. Because that makes more sense to me than what is in her patterns. I am a fairly new crocheter.
I can't quite remember exactly how I did it, but for the body, I basically started making a sphere and when I got to the area where I would have to sew on the belly, I just did a series of increases in that area over a few of the rounds to give that pot belly look. If you need more help, feel free to reach out, and I can try and whip up an alternate pattern for you 😊
@@thesonnetsilence Thank you so much! I'm going to give it a try.
I'm honestly surprised at how much people don't like or are unfamiliar with the slip stitch, chain 1 method. This is how I learnt to crochet in the round (doilies, granny squares etc) before I became familiar with the more popular continuous round style. Both have their pros and cons, that's for sure. I agree absolutely on that belly patch. It's so weird.
For sure! It's interesting to learn everyone's different crochet styles and backgrounds! 🧡🧶🤗
Does anyone know what Megan meant by make a chain and slip stitch to beginning to kind of make a magic ring but then crochet into the ring but not the foundation stitches??
I believe she is saying is not stitch into the actual stitches, but to crochet into the hole the ring makes. So picture it like a donut, crochet into the donut center! Lol I hope that makes sense! 🧡🍩🧶
Did you know that you can contact the actual designer and ask her?
I just discovered your channel! Wow love your work! I did 2 impkins the one with ehw ponty mushroom hat , and one standing body type 2. I did love the creative possibility, yup the belly is a bit weird, however I did crochet in a 2.5 hook, so it's not so bad
Thank you so much! I do love that pointy mushroom hat. It's too cute. 🧡🧶🤗
Appreciate the review! 😊
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I just got this book and haven't made anything from it yet, but your thoughts are so helpful! I think I'll just adapt it to being in the round, and honestly I will likely alter the standing tummy pattern as I go because that little bit is unsightly. There is a similar book by Kerry Lord called the Imaginarium with the mix and match monster bits styling, and I think that the two books combined would be sensational. If you haven't checked out that book yet, you definitely should!
I will check them out! Thank you! 🧶👍
I’m having some difficulty making the legs look right on the sitting one
How you insert your hook into the leg really makes an impact on how they are oriented in the end. I recommend double checking where you insert your hook. Page 22 actually has a picture at the botton of the page illustrating this. In order for the legs to be attached correctly, you actually insert your hook into the wrong side (inside) of the leg, and then insert your hook into the right side (outside) of the body. Hopefully that helps solve the problem!
I got the book a couple of days ago. My family have started putting in their request for their Impkins, but im already trying to think of ways around the belly piece and im really hoping ignoring the slip stitch, ch1 is going to work out ok as not only do i find it a pain, i dont like the look of it.. Love your channel by the way and this book review was great ❤
Thank you so much! I found ignoring the sl st, ch 1 worked out just fine. Maybe mine don't have the exact "intended" shape, but I'm happy enough with the finished Impkins that are just worked in a spiral. I just added a few extra increases to the belly portion to get my st count up to the indicated number, and it looks much better! 🧶😊🙌 Good luck with your Impkins!
I accidentally bought a digital copy awhile ago and ended up putting the book down after creating my first impkin. I'd never seen a crochet pattern where you have to study the glossary before crocheting. I don't know if it's because I'm self taught, but I didn't realize that the "Sl st, Ch1 " technique meant starting the stitch for the next row meant starting in the slip stitch. I'm trying again and hoping that by doing it her way, the belly won't keep becoming the butt.
Also as a self taught and rather newer crocheter, the Sl st ch 1 was so confusing for me too. I hope that this next go around works out well and you’re able to make an adorable impkin! 🧡🤗🧶
I agree with all of your comments!😅
Great books! But you need to make your adjustments to make it work for your preferences.
I have enough crochet experience to do that.
Just started the video, haven't seen your opinion yet, I'm here because the video links in the book all say unavailable for me so far, and some of the written instructions do not make any sense to me.
I swear anytime I buy a crochet book, the patterns are so confusing but if I buy off Etsy, where I can contact the writer, I have zero issues lol
Oh no! I'm sorry the videos are not working for you. Especially since the patterns are not the easiest, that's really frustrating. Love the support designers offer through their individual patterns! Definitely prefer individual patterns over books sometimes. 🧡🧶
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Yes! Amazing books but I don’t like the sl st chain one either so I’m regularly adjusting the alignment of rows as I go!🤷♀️😆
Haha I feel you! You're so right. It's best to take patterns and make them work for you!! 🧡🧶🙌
I will say as someone whos a huge fan of her patterns I wouldn't say their impkin books are a great reflection of what the patterns are like. They are amazing and wonderful but in comparison to the amazing dragons, octopuses, unicorns, ect I don't think it's a good book to really enjoy how amazing her patterns are. I enjoyed making the Impkins, they are amazing but they are personally just my least favourites of hers. Her other book would be a very interesting thing to look at and compare to Impkins if you'd be interested. I understand completely if not. I liked this review a lot, it's a great review that mentions and brings up a lot of good points.
Another thing to be mindful of is when you don't do the slst ch 1 correctly it does cause some complications with the pattern. It can cause pieces not to line up, it can create a ugly seam, ect. The Facebook group explains super well why it's good to learn how to slst and ch 1 correctly.
Oh, thank you! I still have the Cthulu pattern and a few others on my wishlist, so I will keep that in mind! I am still very interested in her Monsters book, so I think perhaps comparing that one, as well as perhaps a solo pattern to the Impkins is a fantastic idea!
Thank you so much! I'm glad you enjoyed the review!
As a beginner I am STRUGGLING to figure out how to make progress through attaching the legs to the body piece. Wish I would've watched the review before getting the book. Maybe I'll have to try to come back to it eventually 🥲
I'm sorry you're struggling! I know the feeling. That part is definitely tricky for new crocheters. I hope you give it another try when you are ready! 🧶🧡
I have Megan’s Crochet Creatures of Myth and Legend. I made the feathered serpent from that. It was very detailed and took hours. Her patterns are unique, but I decided that serpent would be a one of a kind. That said, I do appreciate the options in her books to make different variations, and I learned some new stitches.
Ohhh! I bet the serpent turned out great! I totally understand why it would be one of a kind, though.
I 100% agree. Her patterns are unique and creative, requiring lots of dedication and work.
It made a little boy happy for Christmas. His grandmother had me make it for him.
Okay thank god I was reading these leg and body patterns. Kept pulling it out and redoing it with the same results! Lord
Right? I too was getting sooo frustrated! 🧡
I also have and love this book and I also made the strawberry one! However, it was definitely challenging and i have been crocheting for a long time. I also ended up doing the spiral method because I couldn't figure out the slip stitch one. It still turned out fine. I also struggled with attaching parts and getting them to be the right direction. This book requires A LOT of focus but i will be making more because they are just too cute not too! 😊 I also have the dragon book and may try that once I get used to her patterns lol.
Its does require a lot of focus for sure. I love to hear that you enjoy making them! The finished impkins do turn out so dang cute! Can't wait to hear about your projects you make from the dragon book. ☺🧡🧶
I have this book and love it. I don't do the slip stitch, I just work it in the round. The belly... it bothered me slightly at first, but now it's grown on me. Especially since I make sure it's very tightly closed, so it doesn't look as weird to me now. I've had a couple people see the ones I've made and want me to make them one or 5. I do have a 3 year old and ADHD so I can never remember what stitch I'm on or how to do the special stitches so yes, I'm constantly recounting and flipping back to see how tomake the special stitches. I do love the versatility though. I can really make whatever kind of creature I want and I love that.
That's awesome! It's so fun to be able to mix and match and really be creative. Love to hear you enjoy it so much!
I can’t figure out when and how to attach the belly button. I tried so many times. I will try it without and just increase to make a belly shape.
I also have Megan’s books, both of them. I hate the belly patch and I do not use the slat ch1 join but really do like the way my little impkin looks. Have not made a dragon yet but some day … maybe?
Love to hear that you still enjoy how your impkins look! I bet they are simply adorable!🧶🧡🤗
I just bought this book and found the video after. I'm excited to start! I really don't like that belly hole so I'll try to find a work around for it. I've already got some patterns she's made (dragons!) so I'm familiar with her crocheting style. I use 3.5mm hook and I crochet in the round instead and the dragon I've made so far turned out fine (honestly I'm a little biased but I think in some respects my dragon looks a bit better than a lot of the examples because you can't see the cotton and it doesn't have the line from the slip stitch chain 1). I plan to do the same with these little guys :) I also use the yarn under technique to make my stitches even tighter! My only issue is with getting the larger safety eyes to fit. Anyway thanks for the review, I'm excited to get started :)
Awesome! After the first few, I decided to work in the round, and I, too, prefer how they look over the sl st seam! I hope you have fun with them because they are cute!! 🧡🧶😊
@@thesonnetsilenceHonestly I'm already obsessed. I'm almost finished with my first one, just waiting for the eyes to come in the mail (ordered some fancy hand painted ones) and I have a few little pieces left to make like the ears. Getting started on my 2nd one while that one is still a WIP right now 🤣
@@Sang15Mitang Love to hear it!!
Ok I'm sold. I'm getting it now!
Awesome! I hope you have a blast. There are so many creative choices! 🧡🧶
Thanks for your imput and sharing 😊
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What do you mean put the hook in on the wrong side? Im having the same issue whodid you fix it? Any help would ve appreciated. At this point im desperate. Lol
For sure! I would be happy to help. Which body position are you having issues with? The sitting or the standing? Also, feel free to shoot me an email or even an instrgram message if you need to. I'll gladly try and help!
Thank you for this Crochet Impkins amigurumi book review. 😊
You are so welcome! Hope it was helpful! 😊🧡🧶
What a great video! Thanks 😊 😊😊
Thank you! And thanks for watching! ☺️🧡🧶🤗
Looks like an adorable book. 📚☕❄️🥂
There are some super cute designs for sure!
The sl st, ch 1 is what stopped me from buying more of her patterns
For sure. It’s definitely something that will deter me from her patterns in the future. 🧡🧶🤗
I like the look of it in front as the lines of crochet are evenly spaced and not off centre when working continuous, but it does leave a seam, which isn't that great.
LOL This is so fun!
Yay! Glad you enjoyed it! I had so much fun coming up with this review! 😊🧡
I hated the slip stitch chain one at first, and then I tried to do it with every pattern I made after that
Awesome! It’s definitely a staple for many crocheters!
Love this! I suggest reviewing Amigurumi Adventures by ochepots next
Thank you! That one is actually in my Amazon cart right now, so I definitely will be doing that one next. Thank you for the suggestion!