When I thought about shifting my focus to design this year, I couldn’t help but be bummed that I would have significantly less time to crochet using other people’s designs. I love creating my own things, but I also love some of the amazing patterns available out there from other designers.

Since I am spending more time designing (and frogging designs that aren’t working) I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to justify the time it takes to make other designs… unless I could use share my thoughts and love for those designs with you!

So the solution is Pattern Reviews! I will share some of my thoughts and pictures of my versions of the designs with links back to the original patterns and designers.

I am starting off with a pattern that I get asked about a lot: A Menagerie of Stitches’ Unicorn.

Lauren is the talented person behind A Menagerie of Stitches. I had been following her on Instagram and she put out a call for pattern testers. I’d never tested a pattern before, but I sent her a message and she chose me to test for her. This is the first pattern she produced and let me tell you – it is great! I mean look how cute it is with that rainbow hair. I find unicorn hair very difficult to get right… but I think this one has it!



Difficulty: This is a great beginner to intermediate amigurumi pattern. Each shape is pretty simple and is sewn together. If you can crochet in the round with increases and decreases you can get this!

Why you’ll love it: There are so many great photos used throughout the pattern – some with arrows or numbers on them so you know exactly what to do! Plus it’s soooo cute!

Why you’ll want to frog it: You probably won’t! I’ve actually made a few of these now! There are quite a few pieces to sew on and sewing is the worst part about amigurumi… am I right? But it’s a nice and small project so each piece sews on easily! I did end up sizing down a hook size after the first one I made. The stuffing showed through a bit on my first one – that may have also been the yarn i used.

Cost: This is a paid pattern but totally worth the $3.50 (about $4.45 CAD). You can find it on Lauren’s Etsy page.

The Designer: Lauren is awesome. I actually met her this past summer. I’ll fill you in on that meeting in my next review! Until then, you should follow her on Instagram for some adorable amigurumi. Her feed is full of cute little animals and food all with adorable little faces! Lauren’s Instagram: A Menagerie of Stitches

What do you think? Do you like the review? Let me know in the comments if there is any other information that would be helpful for you!