Q: Can non-plush patterns be made with plush yarn?
Yes! I will be continuing to expand the section of patterns made specifically with plush yarn, but if there is a non-plush/medium weight pattern you would like to make with plush yarn, here are a few tips to follow:
First tip: When you start each circle that goes above 12 stitches around, begin with 8 stitches in the first round instead of 6. So begin like this:
R1: Ch 2, 8 sc in first st (8 sts)R2: 2 sc in each st around (16 sts)
R3: (Sc 1, 2 sc in next st) 8 times (24 sts)
Then skip to R5 on the pattern:
R5: (Sc 3, 2 sc in next st), 6 times. (30 sts)
And continue as written.
If you are working on a smaller piece, such as legs, that only increase to 18 stitches around, start rounds 1 and 2 with 8 and 16 stitches as written above, then re-work round 3 to equal the number of stitches needed. Then continue with the pattern as written.
Second tip: Since the plush yarn is thicker than medium-weight yarn, the shape of your amigurumi piece will be somewhat elongated when using plush yarn. When you get to a section of the pattern with multiple rounds of the same number of stitches, leave out 1-2 rounds so your amigurumi head/legs/body do not look too long.
Third tip: On non-plush patterns, I usually use 12mm eyes. But these will look too small on animals made with plush yarn. Instead, use 18 or 20mm eyes (or felt eyes).
If you have any questions about a specific pattern, feel free to email me!