Experiencing the Japanese culture up close and personal is one thing I’ll never forget. The Japanese have many traditions, but of all of them, the Kokeshi doll is one of my favorites. Being highly superstitious, different symbols, culture icons, and even numbers hold significant meaning to the Japanese people. The Kokeshi doll represents good fortune. There are several different kinds of Kokeshi. Some bring fertility, some bring prosperity.There are several different kinds of Kokeshi, and they aren’t just limited to the purposes I have listed. Some Kokeshi dolls have scrolls written on them that wrap around the doll and creates the dolls kimono. The scroll is used to write good wishes and congratulations for the intended. They are quite common as a parting gift when you wish someone a farewell.

SKILL LEVEL:
* Intermediate
FINISHED SIZE:
* 8’’ tall

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

• 50 yards of worsted weight yarn for skin
• 8 yards of worsted weight yarn for hair
• Scraps of worsted weight yarn for outfit
• Size “G” or 4.25 mm hook
• Yarn needle
• Invisible sewing thread Polyfiber fill

STITCHES AND TERMS USED:

• Magic ring. (MR)
• Stitches (sts)
• Slip stitch (sl st)
• Skip (sk)
• Chain stitch (ch)
• Single crochet (sc)
• Single crochet 2 sts together. (sc2tog)
• Double crochet (dc)
• Repeat (rep) Finish off. (F.O.)