Kindred Spirits Dolls

Kindred Spirits Dolls by Lisa van Klaveren

What is Being Made

The Kindred Spirits Dolls pattern creates charming amigurumi-style crocheted dolls standing approximately 13 inches tall. These are finished, three-dimensional stuffed dolls suitable for display, play, or as handmade gifts. The design allows for creative customization through color choices, making each doll unique and personalized.

Craft and Technique Overview

This project uses crochet as the primary construction method. The dolls are worked in the round using continuous rounds rather than joined rounds, which creates a seamless appearance. The pattern employs amigurumi techniques—the traditional Japanese method of crocheting small, stuffed three-dimensional toys and figures. Pieces are constructed separately and then assembled together, with strategic placement of safety eyes and optional embroidered details for facial features.

Stitches and Special Techniques Used

• Single Crochet (sc) – The foundational stitch used throughout the construction of the doll's body, head, and limbs
• Magic Ring – Used to begin the head, creating a closed center without a visible hole
• Increases (2 sc in next sc) – Used to expand rounds and create the rounded, dimensional shapes of the head and body
• Invisible Single Crochet Decrease (inv sc dec) – A special decrease technique that inserts the hook under the front loop only of two consecutive single crochets, creating a nearly invisible seam when closing off sections
• Chain stitches (ch) – Used for initial foundation and structural elements

Materials Required

The pattern calls for DK or light worsted weight yarn in multiple colors of your choice, with approximately 150 yards needed per color. Suggested colors include skintone, cream, grey, purple, red-orange, brown, and others, allowing makers to create dolls with diverse appearances. A size F (3.75 mm) crochet hook is used throughout the project. Additional materials include polyester fiberfill stuffing for creating the three-dimensional form, a yarn needle for weaving in ends and assembling pieces, a sewing needle with thread for attaching buttons and other details, and 2 safety eyes (or the option to embroider eyes instead). The pattern includes approximately 3 buttons measuring 12 mm for the cardigan and dress back details. Optional blush can be applied to the cheeks for added character.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with some experience beyond basic stitches. The invisible decrease and continuous round technique require practice and attention, though the repetitive nature of amigurumi construction becomes intuitive with focus.