Have you ever heard the word “Amigurumis”?

Probably yes, but do you know their history?

It all began in Japan after World War II. At the end of the war, Japan had more than 120,000 orphans. The country was devastated, and many women, often widows, had lost everything. Many turned to crafts to survive and bring a little joy to children.

At that time, industrial toys no longer existed or had become inaccessible. Women then began to make small dolls with whatever they had on hand (scraps of wool, old recovered fabrics) to give to orphaned children and bring them some comfort.

These small hand-sewn or knitted dolls were quite rudimentary and did not yet look like the amigurumis we know today. But we can say that the "Amigurumi spirit" was born at that moment.

After a few years, Japan entered a phase of economic reconstruction. Crochet moved from a "necessity" to a "creative hobby."

·     1951 : The publishing house Ondori-Sha published one of the first books featuring crochet animal patterns. This was the first time the technique was codified for the general public.

·     1974 : Sanrio launched Hello Kitty. It was a cultural earthquake. The "Kawaii" (cute) style was defined: big eyes, a large head, and simplified expressions. Japanese women began to reproduce this style in crochet; amigurumis were born.

These pretty little plushies, crocheted with love, generally represent characters, animals, food, or objects with friendly faces. They are made using crochet or knitting techniques and represent friendship, love, trust, and support.

« Amigurumis became a true social phenomenon in Japan long before crossing borders»

·     During the 1980s, the term "Amigurumi" became common language to specifically designate these crochet figures and distinguish them from classic fabric plushies (nuigurumi). The name comes from the contraction of ami (crochet/knit) and nuigurumi (plush).

·     In 2002 : The consecration came with the creation of the Japan Amigurumi Association, which organizes exhibitions in Tokyo and Kyoto, proving that amigurumis moved from simple toys to art and collector's items.

·     By 2003, the word began to appear on American and European blogs. In just a few years, the craze for these cute plushies became worldwide.

Did you know that crochet is one of the few textile techniques that machines cannot reproduce? Unlike industrially knitted clothes, every amigurumi or crochet accessory you see is the result of meticulous manual work. Behind each character is a person, a hook, and a lot of patience. This is what makes your little companion truly unique.

Nowadays, it's easy to find patterns for making your own amigurumi. But learning to crochet takes time and, above all, patience. And to get the results you want, you'll need to practice a lot. So if patience isn't your strong suit, or you simply don't have the time or desire to learn crocheting…

The solution is to find what you're looking for among the designers/crafters who make beautiful amigurumis for you with all their heart. In my shop, I offer lovely amigurumi key rings that you can take with you everywhere.

" More than a keychain: a little companion for the road "

I chose to create these little crocheted characters because I deeply believe in the magic that lies within handmade objects.

Like those Japanese women who once crocheted to bring smiles back to children, I put a special focus into every amigurumi I create.

Each keychain that leaves my workshop is the fruit of several hours of passionate work. I put all my love into it, with the secret hope that when you look at it in the middle of a busy day, it will bring you that little spark of joy and that feeling of comfort you need.

"Did you know that according to Japanese philosophy, having an Amigurumi nourishes the child within each of us? "

Choosing an amigurumi key ring from my store isn't just buying an item, it's adopting a cute little companion that will make you smile or bring joy to someone you care about.

Don't miss the next adoptions!

As every amigurumi is a unique piece, lovingly hand-crocheted, these new little companions often quickly find their way to their new homes.

If you have fallen for my world and don't want to miss the next creations, I invite you to join me on my social media! That's where I share the behind-the-scenes of my workshop, my current inspirations, and the announcements for future amigurumis to adopt.

Join the BOHEM COLOR adventure to find your favorite AMIGURUMI! And soon you will receive your new friend at home, who will bring you tenderness and good cheer.