When stuffing peeks between the stitches of a crocheted toy, the fabric may not be dense enough for the chosen yarn and stuffing. The good news: this is a common issue you can test on a small sample.
1. Try a smaller crochet hook
Amigurumi is often worked more tightly than garments or blankets. Test a hook one size smaller than you would usually use for the yarn, but make sure your hands are comfortable and you can still insert the hook without forcing it.
2. Keep your tension consistent
Switching between loose and tight stitches leaves uneven gaps. Slow down for a few rounds and watch the size of each loop.
3. Check how you decrease
Standard decreases can leave noticeable holes on the surface of stuffed toys. An invisible decrease is one technique often used in single-crochet amigurumi. Check that you are working into the correct loops for your pattern.
4. Avoid overstuffing
Too much filling stretches the fabric and makes any gaps larger. Add small pieces of stuffing gradually, shaping the toy as you go.
5. Check the yarn
Smooth, thin yarn can reveal gaps more easily than some loftier yarns. Try a swatch with an appropriate hook and look at the fabric against a contrasting background.
6. Look for skipped stitches
A skipped stitch or accidental chain can make a localised gap. Use a stitch marker and count your rounds rather than trying to close the hole with extra stuffing.
What to try first
Make two small swatches with the same yarn using different hook sizes. Compare flexibility, gaps and comfort. Don't judge a hook size by its label alone: your own tension matters.