If you’ve ever ventured into the colorful world of crocheted plushies, you know that safety eyes for amigurumi can bring your creations to life. Safety eyes play a crucial role in giving your amigurumi personality and charm. But with various sizes, types, colors, and materials available, selecting the right safety eyes can be overwhelming. Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about safety eyes for amigurumi, helping you choose the perfect pair for your next project.

Understanding Safety Eyes

Safety eyes are specially designed with a locking washer that secures them in place, making them ideal for use in crocheted or knitted toys. Although they are called “safety” eyes, it does not mean they are completely safe.  Safety eyes are not recommended in toys for children under 3 years of age.

Sizes and Shapes

Safety eyes come in a variety of sizes, typically ranging from 6mm to 24mm or even larger. The size you choose depends on the size of your amigurumi and the desired effect. Smaller eyes (6mm to 9mm) work well for tiny creatures or details, while larger eyes (12mm to 24mm) create a more prominent and expressive look.
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Shapes can vary too, with most safety eyes being round or oval. Some designs even feature special shapes like hearts, stars, or animal pupils, adding extra character to your amigurumi.

Types of Safety Eyes

1. Plastic Safety Eyes 
These are the most common type of safety eyes and are available in a wide range of sizes and colors. They’re lightweight, affordable, and suitable for most amigurumi projects.

2. Glass Safety Eyes 
Glass safety eyes offer a more realistic look and feel compared to plastic ones. They’re available in various sizes and colors, but they tend to be more expensive and fragile.

3. Painted Safety Eyes 
Painted safety eyes feature intricate designs and details, perfect for adding personality to your amigurumi. They’re available in both plastic and glass varieties and come in a range of colors and patterns.

4. Metallic Safety Eyes 
These eyes have a metallic finish, adding a shiny and eye-catching element to your amigurumi. They’re available in different colors and are often made of plastic with a metallic coating.

Colors

Safety eyes come in a plethora of colors to suit any amigurumi project. From classic black and brown to vibrant blues, greens, and even rainbow hues. The options are endless. Consider the color scheme of your amigurumi and choose eyes that complement or contrast with the yarn colors for the desired effect.

Where to Buy Safety Eyes

You can find safety eyes at various craft stores, online marketplaces, and specialty shops catering to amigurumi makers. Here are some popular options:

1. Online Retailers
Websites like Amazon, Etsy, and specialized craft stores offer a wide selection of safety eyes in different sizes, types, and colors. They often come in bulk packs, making them cost-effective for larger projects.

2. Local Craft Stores
Visit your nearest craft store like Joann Fabrics, Michaels, or Hobby Lobby to see if they carry safety eyes. While the selection may be limited compared to online retailers, you can often find basic sizes and colors to get started.

3. Specialty Amigurumi Shops 
Some online stores specialize in amigurumi supplies and offer a curated selection of safety eyes, along with other essential materials like yarn and stuffing. These shops may have unique or hard-to-find options for your projects.

Disclosure: This post may contain an affiliate link, meaning I get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my link, at no cost to you.

Tips for Using Safety Eyes

• After attaching safety eyes, ensure that your amigurumi is stuffed firmly to prevent the eyes from shifting or sagging.
• Position the eyes symmetrically and at the desired height for the best appearance.
• Use a locking washer to secure the safety eyes in place firmly. Simply insert the washer onto the eye post from the inside of the amigurumi and press it down until it clicks into place.
• Double-check the attachment to ensure the eyes are securely fastened before giving the amigurumi to a child.

Safety eyes are an essential component of amigurumi, adding personality and charm to your creations while ensuring they’re safe for play. With various sizes, types, colors, and materials available, there’s a perfect pair of safety eyes for every project. Whether you opt for plastic, glass, painted, or metallic eyes, selecting the right ones will bring your amigurumi to life in the most delightful way possible. So, go ahead, unleash your creativity, and let your amigurumi’s eyes sparkle with personality!

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