Amigurumi neck: open or closed head?

The way the neck of an amigurumi is made varies depending on the pattern. There is a difference between a closed head and an open head. What is the difference, and when is each option used? In this blog, you'll find all the information you need to decide which method suits your project best.

Closed head

A closed head means there is no opening at the bottom of the head. This ensures that the stuffing inside the head is completely separate from the body.

A closed head is often used when the last row of the head is not positioned straight down. In this case, the closed side of the head is not directly above the neck, which means it would be visible.

Additionally, a closed head allows you to position the head as you prefer. For example, if you want to give your amigurumi a playful or mischievous look, you can attach the head at a slight angle.

Used technique: With a needle you insert the thread that you have left through the remaining stitches after the last round. Tighten the thread by pulling. In this way you close the head neatly. Then you weave in the thread into the head.

Advantages: With a closed head you can decide for yourself how you want to sew the head onto the body.

Disadvantages: It can be more difficult to determine the positioning of the head. You will need to check more often if you're sewing the head straight onto the body. 

Open Head

An open head means that you leave an opening at the bottom of the head, so it is not fully closed. The stuffing inside the head continues into the body. The number of stitches in the opening of the head matches the number of stitches in the neck of the body.

Technique Used: You attach the head to the body by stitching back and forth between the last row of the body and the last row of the head. If the pattern originally has a closed head, you can skip the last few rows of the head. This ensures that the last row of the head has the same number of stitches as the last row of the body.

Advantages:  The placement of the head on the body is clearly defined, making it easier to sew in the correct position. It is generally easier to determine the exact position of the head on the body.

Disadvantages: In my experience, it can be harder to keep the neck stable (though this is a personal preference and may vary for each person—see this blog for more details). You have fewer options to adjust the head position to your liking.

Conclusion: Which Option is Best?

The best option depends entirely on your personal preference. Both methods are perfectly valid, so take a look at the pros and cons of each and decide which one suits you best.

However, the best way to find out what works for you is by experimenting with both techniques. With practice, you will naturally discover which method you prefer.

My personal preference is a closed head because it gives me more control over how I attach the head to the body. I also find it easier to keep the neck stable when the head is fully closed. If you're interested in neck stabilization techniques, check out this blog for more tips. That said, I still practice with both options to keep experimenting and improving my skills!