Master Crochet Artist Joanna Kienmeyer Explains the Japanese Craft

Learn all about amigurumi alongside expert crafter Joanna Kienmeyer and discover why these creations are one of the best forms of self-expression

Meet Joanna Kienmeyer, a talented crochet artist and teacher who has captured the hearts of many with her intricate amigurumi creations. She started knitting and crocheting inspired by her partner’s family and made her first amigurumi when her daughter was born. She later began posting her creations on Instagram, amassing over 60K followers, and was asked by some of her favorite designers to test patterns.

Her ability to transform yarn into adorable 3D shapes, sewing them together to form whimsical animals and dolls, has earned her a loyal following and admiration within the crafting community. With her upcoming course release titled "Crocheting Amigurumi Animals for Beginners," Joanna is set to inspire and guide aspiring crochet enthusiasts in mastering this delightful craft.

An interview with Joanna Kienmeyer

Q: What is amigurumi?

A: Amigurumi, originating from Japan, refers to the art of creating small stuffed toys through knitting or crocheting. Unlike traditional flat crochet, amigurumi allows for the creation of three-dimensional shapes that are later assembled to form animals or dolls.

Q: What first drew you to the craft?

A: Joanna's journey into the world of amigurumi began when she stumbled upon a crocheted bunny while browsing for inspiration on Pinterest. Instantly captivated by its charm, she decided to make one for her daughter. The creation of her first amigurumi bunny ignited her passion for the craft, leading her to further explore and experiment with different designs.

Q: How did you learn the techniques you use?

A: Joanna acquired the basic crochet skills from her mother-in-law. To expand her knowledge and master the intricate techniques of amigurumi, she turned to YouTube, which offered a vast array of video tutorials. Typing in the stitch she wanted to learn provided her with step-by-step visual instructions, enabling her to develop her expertise.

Q: What is your favorite creation?

A: As an artist deeply invested in her craft, Joanna finds it challenging to choose a single favorite amigurumi creation. Each new creation becomes her favorite as she becomes immersed in its making, continually evolving her skills and exploring new designs.

Q: What do you wish you knew as a beginner?

A: Reflecting on her own journey, Joanna highlights two aspects she wishes she had known as a beginner. Firstly, she wishes she had discovered the "magic ring" technique earlier, considering it one of the best-kept secrets in amigurumi making. Secondly, she emphasizes the importance of proper stuffing techniques, as many beginners tend to overstuff their creations. Having learned these skills through experience, she believes that starting out with this knowledge would have been invaluable.

Q: What does creativity mean to you?

A: For Joanna, creativity serves as a form of relaxation and escape from the busyness of everyday life. Immersed in her craft, she finds solace and tranquility, forgetting her to-do lists and other distractions. Crocheting allows her to tap into her inner creativity, fostering a sense of calm and fulfillment.

Q: What are your biggest inspirations?

A: Joanna draws inspiration from various sources throughout her crochet journey. People and designers play a significant role in inspiring her, but she also finds inspiration in colors and nature. Taking walks in the mountains or woods exposes her to a multitude of colors that spark her imagination, fueling her desire to create delightful toys.

Q: Which other artists do you look up to?

A: Numerous artists have left an indelible mark on Joanna's creative path, making it challenging to list them all at once. However, she admires the work of Isabelle Kessetian, particularly her expressive animal designs. Joanna also holds a special appreciation for the creations of Lillilies, a favorite designer whose patterns she frequently utilizes, especially when she first started her amigurumi journey.

Q: What are the essential materials in your toolkit?

A: As a crochet artist, Joanna relies on several essential materials in her toolkit. A crochet hook, yarn, fibrefill for stuffing, tapestry needles, pins, scissors, and safety eyes are among the fundamental items she considers vital for her craft.

Q: What are the challenges of your process?

A: Time presents the most common challenge for Joanna. The need to dedicate sufficient time for crocheting, as well as for developing and refining ideas, can be demanding. To overcome this hurdle, she carves out an hour each day solely dedicated to crochet, ensuring that she can fully immerse herself in the creative process.

Q: What is your go-to platform for inspiration?

A: Joanna finds Instagram to be her favorite social media platform for seeking inspiration. She also enjoys exploring Facebook and Pinterest, both of which offer a plethora of ideas and designs to ignite her imagination.

Joanna Kienmeyer's passion for amigurumi and her dedication to sharing her skills through her upcoming course is truly inspiring. Her artistic journey showcases the power of creativity as a form of relaxation and self-expression. With her immense talent, diverse sources of inspiration, and willingness to guide others, Joanna is a beacon of inspiration for crochet enthusiasts, both aspiring and experienced.

Through her course, "Crocheting Amigurumi Animals for Beginners," she invites everyone to embark on a delightful journey of creating whimsical creatures and experiencing the joy that comes with bringing yarn to life. Don't miss the opportunity to join Joanna on this enchanting adventure and explore the wonderful world of amigurumi.