Amamani Puzzle Balls

Amamani is short for Amigurumi Amish Animals. They are based on the traditional Amish puzzle ball, and, as such, come apart into three segments, or rings, which have to be assembled to form your animal. Gauge isn't important in these projects; however, it is important that you work as tightly as you comfortably can. Helpful tips and step-by-step photos are included in this pattern book. Each of the six designs is stitched in segments using Deborah Norville Everyday Premier yarn, is stuffed with polyfiberfill, and includes a pair of safety eyes. Animals included are Dinosaur, Elephant, Giraffe, Turtle, and two versions of Lion.

Dedri Uys is a 32-year-old South African living in London with her husband, three gorgeous boys, and Kettle the cat. During the day she works as a radiotherapist, planning treatment for cancer patients. At night, when the little ones have gone to bed, you will find her huddled over her crochet hook, furiously scribbling down designs on pieces of scrap paper (and occasionally having a glass of wine). Her granny taught her to crochet when she was very young, and although she was good at it,she wasn’t overly keen. She didn’t pick up a hook again until she was pregnant with her second son. Four years later she can honestly say that crochet has changed her life. It is so much more than a hobby to her, and she can only hope that making these little critters gives you half as much joy as she got from designing them.