When a new crochet book is released, the big question is always the same: is this one worth adding to your library? With Crocheted Mythical Creatures by Jacki Donhou, I went cover to cover to see what this collection really offers. In this review, I’ll share what’s inside, what works well, and where makers may run into challenges—so you’ll know exactly what to expect before deciding whether it’s the right fit for your crochet shelf.
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Thanks to GMC Publications 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 the Author
The designer behind this new book is Jacki Donhou, an American amigurumi crochet designer living on the East Coast of the United States. A Las Vegas native, Jacki is well known in the yarn community for her whimsical and unique amigurumi designs. This is her second title with GMC Publications. Her first was Yarn Cake Amigurumi. You can find her sharing her magical projects and behind-the-scenes work on Instagram as @dearjackistitchery.
What Patterns are Included Inside Crocheted Mythical Creatures by Jacki Donhou?
This collection features 15 patterns for fantastical mythical creatures. Those creatures are:
- Medusa the Gorgon,
- the Kraken,
- Cerberus,
- Djinn,
- Faun,
- Chinese Dragon,
- Nessie the Loch Ness Monster,
- Banshee,
- Cherry Blossom Dryad,
- Unicorn,
- Griffin,
- Mermaid,
- Wolpertinger,
- Water Kelpie and,
- Manticore.
I loved that there was a mix of mythical creatures some more popular names and some unfamiliar. I couldn’t recall hearing about a Manticore before so it inspired me to do some reading to learn more about it, which is always cool.
What are The Patterns Like to Work With?
The patterns are presented with step-by-step photography, though the progress photos aren’t labelled. In most cases, you can figure out what the photo is showing, but occasionally you’ll find yourself piecing things together. For projects that require armature, I would have loved to see additional visual support, since those steps may be tricky if you haven’t built armature before.
That said, I found most of the instructions straightforward to follow and the finished toys—ranging from 5.5” to 10”—are packed with detail. Though for those who are sticklers about size, there is no guidance or information on gauge to ensure your toys turn out to be that size. Some instructions were a tad confusing but I feel most experienced amigurumi makers would be able to sort out the tricky sections.
Exact yarn brands and colors are listed, which is helpful if you want your project to look just like the author’s.
This collection really is an array of fantastical projects that feel like they leapt straight from the pages of a fairy tale. Between ferocious dragons, mischievous sprites, and mischievous fairies, you’ll have plenty of inspiration to use up your stashes of colourful yarn (or colorful yarns, if that’s how you spell it!).
Does Crocheted Mythical Creatures Use UK or US Crochet Terms?
The book uses UK crochet terminology and includes an abbreviations chart on page 23. However, there isn’t a UK-to-US conversion chart, which may slow down crocheters or be a deal breaker for those who are used to US terms. A quick reminder before you start: double crochet (dc) in UK terms means US single crochet (sc).
What Skill Level is Needed to Make the Projects In This Book?
Each pattern is rated with a circle system: 3 circles being the hardest. 10 of the 15 patterns are marked with 3 circles, and the remaining five are 2 circles. None are marked at the beginner level.
I agree with this assessment and think these designs are best for intermediate crocheters and advanced amigurumi makers. If you’re brand new to the Japanese crochet style of amigurumi, this may not be the perfect guide to start with. I’d recommend folks have a lot of experience making amigurumi using different pattern writing styles and amigurumi assembly techniques before attempting the makes in this book.
What Kind of Supports Are Included for Makers?
The opening chapters (pages 8–23) cover Materials and Tools, followed by a Stitches and Techniques section. While there is step-by-step instruction with illustrations, I did notice that not all the illustrations are in proper order or accurate, and a few could cause confusion (which I have reported to the publisher since there was no errata sheet noting these yet). If you’re already experienced, you’ll likely be able to figure it out, but beginners may struggle.
The errata sheet, once it is created, will be available here: https://www.gmcbooks.com/gmc-craft-book-errata/
See A Quick Flip-Through of the Book
Supplies You’ll Need for Crocheted Mythical Creatures Projects
The patterns call for:
- Universal Yarn Bamboo Pop DK, (<– find all available colors here)
- a 2mm crochet hook,
- black and white crochet thread,
- safety eyes (10–14mm), (I get the majority of my safety eyes from Chateau Bornais Crochet)
- pipe cleaners,
- toy stuffing and, (<— this is the toy stuffing I use for all my designs)
- standard crochet notions like needles, pins, and stitch markers.
Where Can You Buy Crocheted Mythical Creatures by Jacki Donhou?
You can find Crocheted Mythical Creatures by Jacki Donhou at these retailers:
Final Thoughts: Is Crocheted Mythical Creatures Worth Adding to Your Crochet Library?
If you’re an experienced maker looking for a collection of crocheted mythical creatures to add to your collection (perfect for adult collectors), this book is a treat. It offers a range of magical projects that will appeal to mythology and fantasy lovers.
However, because the majority of patterns are advanced, I wouldn’t recommend this book for beginners or those new to amigurumi. The tiny hooks, occasional tricky instructions, and lack of extra guidance mean it’s best suited for those who already know their way around amigurumi.
That said, if you’re ready to tackle plush patterns like ferocious dragons or a mermaid straight out of the pages of a fairy tale, Crocheted Mythical Creatures by Jacki Donhou has plenty of unique amigurumi projects to love. For the right maker, it may be exactly the kind of magical project that deserves a place in your crochet library.
👉 What mythical creature would you love to crochet first?
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I know us and UK equivalent but I started with us even tho I am in the UK as most of the patterns were in UK. Even tho I can have a conversion chart next to me i always revert back to us half way through. Do you have any tips apart from dont attempt UK patterns.
Hi Debbie,
The only thing that I can suggest to you is something that my aunt does with UK term patterns. She rewrites the entire pattern in US terms, using a conversion chart and then crochets from her re-write. It’s tedious but it’s the only way that she has found to stop herself from mentally switching back or forgetting about the conversion chart part way through.
I hope this helps.
Ashley