Quick Tutorial for Making Cute Onigiri Rice Ball Amigurumi

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Supplies Needed
3. Step 1: Creating the Slip Knot and Chain
4. Step 2: Single Crocheting the First Row
5. Step 3: Adding Increases and Decreases
6. Step 4: Rounds 3 to 5 - Single Crocheting
7. Step 5: Adding Eyes and Mouth
8. Step 6: Adding Blush (Optional)
9. Step 7: Rounds 6 to 8 - Single Crocheting
10. Step 8: Stuffing the Onigiri
11. Step 9: Final Decrease and Closing Off
12. Step 10: Creating the Strap

How to Make Cute Onigiri Amigurumi - A Step-by-Step Tutorial

If you're a fan of amigurumi and love to create cute and whimsical crochet projects, then this step-by-step tutorial on how to make adorable onigiri amigurumi is perfect for you. Onigiri, also known as rice balls, is a popular Japanese dish that is both delicious and visually appealing. With this tutorial, you'll be able to crochet your very own mini onigiri that you can use as a keychain, decoration, or even a gift for someone special.

Introduction

Before we dive into the tutorial, let's learn a little bit about onigiri and amigurumi. Onigiri is a traditional Japanese dish made from rice formed into triangular or oval shapes and often filled with various ingredients such as fish, vegetables, or pickled plums. On the other hand, amigurumi is the Japanese art of crocheting or knitting small, stuffed animals and objects. By combining the two, we can create cute mini onigiri using the amigurumi technique.

Supplies Needed

To create your own onigiri amigurumi, you'll need the following supplies:

• Yarn (preferably white for the rice and black for the facial features)
• Crochet hook (size will depend on the thickness of your yarn)
• Safety eyes (7.5mm works well for this project)
• Stuffing material (polyfill or cotton stuffing)
• Stitch marker (optional, but helpful for keeping track of rounds)
• Yarn needle (for sewing and weaving in ends)
• Fabric glue or fabric pins (for attaching the strap)

Now that we have our supplies ready let's get started with the tutorial.

Step 1: Creating the Slip Knot and Chain

The first step in crocheting the onigiri is to create a slip knot and chain 11 using white yarn. This will form the base of the onigiri.

Step 2: Single Crocheting the First Row

Turn your chain over and single crochet ten times in the back loop, using the middle loop. This will create a row of stitches that will form the sides of the onigiri.

Step 3: Adding Increases and Decreases

To shape the onigiri, we'll be adding increases and decreases in the subsequent rounds. In round two, start with three single crochets followed by an increase in the next stitch. Continue single crocheting along the back side of the chains, increasing as required. This will give the onigiri a rounded shape.

Step 4: Rounds 3 to 5 - Single Crocheting

For rounds three to five, simply single crochet all the way around without any increases or decreases. This will create a smooth surface for the onigiri.

Step 5: Adding Eyes and Mouth

In round six, add the safety eyes between the stitches. Place three stitches in between the eyes to create the mouth. You can sew on the mouth using black yarn or use fabric glue for easier application.

Step 6: Adding Blush (Optional)

If you want to add a touch of cuteness to your onigiri, you can add blush by using a small amount of pink yarn or blush powder. Apply it lightly on the cheeks to give the onigiri a rosy and adorable look.

Step 7: Rounds 6 to 8 - Single Crocheting

Continue single crocheting for rounds six to eight. These rounds will help shape the onigiri and give it a more defined appearance.

Step 8: Stuffing the Onigiri

Before proceeding further, start stuffing the onigiri with polyfill or cotton stuffing. Make sure to add enough stuffing to give it a soft and plump shape.

Step 9: Final Decrease and Closing Off

For the final round, decrease all the way around to close off the top of the onigiri. Use the front loop only technique to create a neat closure. Weave in the yarn end and secure it tightly.

Step 10: Creating the Strap

To complete the onigiri, create a strap using black yarn. Chain 16 and double crochet for the entire length. This strap will wrap around the onigiri and give it a more realistic appearance. Attach the strap using fabric glue or by sewing it in place.

And voila! You have successfully created your very own cute onigiri amigurumi. You can make multiple onigiris in different colors and designs to create a cute collection or give them as gifts to your loved ones.

Highlights

• Learn how to crochet adorable onigiri amigurumi
• Step-by-step tutorial with detailed instructions
• Create your own mini onigiri for decoration or gifting
• Customize with safety eyes, mouth, blush, and a strap

FAQ:

Q: Can I use different colors for the onigiri? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different yarn colors to create unique and colorful onigiri amigurumi.

Q: Can I make the onigiri larger? A: Yes, you can adjust the size of the onigiri by using a thicker yarn and a larger crochet hook. Just remember to adjust the number of stitches and rounds accordingly.

Q: Can I make the onigiri without a strap? A: Of course! The strap is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a minimalist design for your onigiri amigurumi.