Thinking about picking up Crochet Dolls Inspired by Nature by Nathalie Amiel? Before you dive in, here’s what you need to know. I’ve gone through the entire book, from the patterns and layout to what supplies you’ll need to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your crochet library. If you’re looking for honest insight, helpful tips, and a closer look inside this nature-themed crochet book, you’re in the right place.
Plus, I’ve got a copy to give away to one lucky reader thanks to David & Charles Publishing! Keep reading to learn more about the book and how to enter to win.
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Thanks to David & Charles Publishing for providing me with a copy of the book free of charge in exchange for my honest opinion. I do not guarantee a positive review of any product reviewed on my site. All opinions shared here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may earn a small commission from purchases made through these links at no cost to you.
About Nathalie Amiel, Designer of Crochet Dolls Inspired by Nature
Nathalie Amiel is the designer behind Crochet Dolls Inspired by Nature and Crochet You (click here to read my review of Crochet You). She’s known for her detailed doll designs that combine creativity with thoughtful details. You can follow Nathalie and her latest projects on Instagram at @nathalies_dolls.
What Patterns are Included In Crochet Dolls Inspired by Nature?
Inside this book, you’ll find patterns for 20 nature-inspired dolls and their themed companions. Each main doll is paired with their own small sidekick project for a matching duo:
- Bird Fairy & Little Hummingbird Friend
- Flower Princess & Little Bee Friend
- Mushroom Sprite & Little Hedgehog Friend
- Insect Lord & Little Firefly Friend
- Sun Queen & Tree Prince
- Little Squirrel Friend
- Ocean King & Little Stingray Friend
- Lady of the Lake & Little Turtle Friend
- Arctic Prince & Little Penguin Friend
- Night Nymphy & Little Bat Friend
These designs form a beautifully cohesive and imaginative collection. My favorite dolls are the Sun Queen and Bird Fairy but I do love the little turtle sidekick of the Lady of the Lake as well.
However, the layout of the book does make the patterns harder to follow than expected. Many instructions refer back to the “Making the Basic Doll” section, which contains details for both large and small dolls, but there’s no clear link between those instructions and the specific doll you’re working on.
For example, phrases like “work torso and neck according to general pattern instructions” are used, yet there is no section with that exact title. This disconnect means a lot of flipping back and forth to figure things out.
There are also vague instructions like “place marker” without specifying where, and phrases like “adjust stitches if necessary” without explaining how to do that. This may leave less experienced crocheters feeling frustrated.
Which Crochet Terms are Used in the Book?
The book is written in US crochet terms with a US-to-UK terminology conversion chart and a list of abbreviations located in the “How to Use This Book” section on page 9.
What Skill Level is Crocchet Dolls Inspired by Nature Best For?
Skill levels are listed at the start of each pattern and range from Easy to Advanced. Based on my experience, however, I would personally categorize nearly every design in the book as Advanced for a few key reasons:
- The projects use very fine yarn and small hooks, which require patience and precision. There is no guidance for using more beginner-friendly materials.
- Every design includes extensive detailing, which adds to the challenge.
- The instructions themselves often lack the clarity needed for those newer to amigurumi or unfamiliar with the techniques used.
This book is really best suited to confident intermediate to advanced crocheters who enjoy a challenge and aren’t afraid of a little trial and error.
What Help for Makers Is Included in the Book?
The book begins with a “How to Use This Book” section that covers sizing, tips, abbreviations, and gauge. While gauge information is a notable inclusion, the gauge guidance is minimal and doesn’t explain how it impacts the finished size of the toys or how to meet it. While not necessary, gauge important if you care about the size of the toy and for yardage but no yarn yardages are provided for any of the patterns.
There is some tutorial imagery included throughout the book, but a few of the photos are small and not particularly helpful.
The main techniques section is at the back of the book (page 116 onward) and includes written step-by-step instructions with matching illustrations, but I found some of these could benefit from additional clarity, especially for those unfamiliar with the amigurumi crochet techniques used.
There are no embroidery instructions for features like eyelashes, which many of the dolls include. This may be frustrating for makers trying to replicate the look of the original samples or those with no experience and lack the confidence to just give it a try.
What Supplies Do you Need to for Crochet Dolls Inspired by Nature?
Here’s what you’ll need to complete the dolls in this book:
- Scheepjes Organicon (fingering weight yarn)
- Krea Deluxe Organic Cotton (fingering weight yarn)
- Teddy’s Wool Starlight Silver (laceweight)
- Embroidery thread
- Toy stuffing – this is my favorite toy stuffing ever
- 24-gauge wire
- Jewelry pliers
- Safety eyes (4mm, 6mm, 7mm) – this is where I get my safety eyes for dolls
- Tapestry needle, stitch markers
- Blush, acrylic paint, cardboard or plastic pieces
- Small wire pet brush
All of the dolls in this collection require wire frames for support and posing. That means they may not be ideal for small children, and the book doesn’t offer suggestions for child-safe alternatives. Without the wire, heads may flop, so makers will need to find their own solutions for support if making these for play.
Where to Buy a Copy of the Book?
You can purchase Crochet Dolls Inspired by Nature at the following retailers:
Final Thoughts: Is This Crochet Book Right For You?
The Crochet Dolls Inspired by Nature book offers an imaginative take on doll-making, blending the whimsy of fantasy characters. From the flower fairy and tree prince to the ocean mermaid king, each design is like a little story waiting to be brought to life.
That said, this book is not beginner-friendly. The lack of in-depth support, the difficulty in navigating the instructions, and the complexity of the designs mean it’s best suited to experienced crocheters who enjoy problem-solving and are comfortable working with fine yarn and structural elements like wire.
If you’re up for the challenge and want to make an unforgettable unique crochet doll collection then this might just be your next favourite crochet book.
I’d love to know — which doll would you make first? The Sun Queen, the Lady of the Lake, or one of the tiny sidekick friends? Let me know in the comments!
Check Out My Latest Book & Product Reviews:
- 10,000 Crocheted Hats by Emma Varnam
- Peter Rabbit Crochet Toys by Carla Mitrani
- A Year of Amigurumi Friends by Andreia Ferriera
- Check out my Search Press book, Crochet Furry Friends
- Check out all my crochet book reviews here.
Crochet Dolls Inspired by Nature Book Giveaway
Thanks to David & Charles Publishing, I have a copy of Crochet Dolls Inspired by Nature by Nathalie Amiel to giveaway!
This giveaway on The Loopy Lamb is open to worldwide participants (except where void by law). Giveaway ends Friday, September 26th, 2025, at 11:45pm Eastern Standard time.
To enter, use the King Sumo form below. If you are on mobile and have difficulty entering, please use a desktop computer to enter or click the link below. Only the email address and name options are mandatory. All other tasks (like following social media platforms) are optional, for bonus entries only.
Can’t see the entry form below? Click here: https://kingsumo.com/g/1rjxj93/crochet-dolls-inspired-by-nature-giveaway
I really like the Arctic Prince & Little Penguin Friend, plus the squirrel friend is so cute, not sure who the doll character is with the squirrel, but he has a cute tiny acorn. Worried the book isn’t a good fit, but I am adventurous when it comes to crocheting 😊
There are definitely a lot of cute options in this book! That little penguin is irresistable. I totally understand your hesitation, but being an adventurous crocheter is such a great way to learn new skills and grow your confidence. Let me know if you decide to give it a try—I’d love to hear how it goes!