She recalls going to a bookstore and finding a book on amigurumi. “But I tried and failed because I didn’t know what the book was talking about,” she said with a laugh.
“I gave up for a while until my husband found YouTube tutorials that taught me how to crochet. From there, I started to make my own stuffed yarn dolls,” the 40-year-old shared with FMT Lifestyle.
Twelve years, three sons, and two published books later, this former copywriter and journalist is now a passionate ambassador for the art of amigurumi, inspiring thousands through her tutorials and fostering a vibrant online community of crafters.
“I never thought that this hobby would lead me to become an author, and to designing my own patterns. I was just happy doing something in my free time,” she said.
With over 50,000 Instagram followers, Mei Li is known for her anime-inspired dolls and original kawaii (cute Japanese) creations. She particularly likes making dolls inspired by Studio Ghibli characters such as Totoro, Kaonashi and Chihiro.
Just last month she launched a Patreon platform, a subscription-based online space offering exclusive content such as video tutorials and new patterns. She also runs a blog.
And last August, Mei Li launched her second crocheting book, “Amigurumi People”, by Turkey-based company Tuva Publishing. Her first book, “Hello Kitty Crochet”, was released by US publisher Quirk Productions in 2014.
“When I got the first book deal, I was very nervous that people would reject my designs because I never formally learnt how to crochet. I had to learn on my own; up until now I am still learning.”
Indeed, she cites imposter syndrome as one of her fears – but she needn’t have worried. “The good thing about the amigurumi community is that so far, everyone has been very nice.”
It was the kindess of this community that kept Mei Li motivated when she decided to take a hiatus in 2016 after the birth of her twin boys. “It was tough being a first-time mother,” she said in reflection.
As the boys grew and predictable sleep patterns were established, she was able to resume her creative endeavours.
“Going back to the craft, I was able to reconnect with the community, and this has kept me going. It makes me feel that I am good at something. I’m not just waiting around for my kids to grow up; I have something else to focus on and look forward to.”
Balancing three boys now – her youngest is just two years old – Mei Li crochets in two-hour pockets throughout the day, creating a schedule that revolves around their needs.
She said being a mother reminds her of the joys of childhood. “I watched a lot of cartoons, I liked all these collectibles. Somehow along the way, growing up and working hard, I had forgotten all the childhood happiness that I had,” she mused.
“Doing this craft has brought back some of that innocent, carefree feeling. It makes me feel like a child again. And now, whenever I think about designing a new doll, it gets me excited.”
So, are Malaysian-themed dolls on the cards? “It’s definitely an interesting thought! Being Malaysian and Chinese, there is a lot I haven’t explored yet.”
Reflecting on her amigurumi journey, she has valuable advice for fellow mothers who are into arts and craft, saying it was important to “craft” time for oneself.
“Set some time for yourself and work your schedule around it,” she said. “Being organised really helps, and I cannot stress enough the importance of having someone else there who can help.”
Follow Mei Li on Instagram, and check out her Patreon account and blog.