Zakka Cuteness

So, I don't crochet, but if I did, I'd make these darling crocheted robots. I've been finding the term "zakka" everywhere in the crafts section at the bookstore, so thought I'd look it up (along with "kawaii" and "amigurimi".)

Zakka ends up being a pretty cool theory that centers around anything and everything that improves your life, your home and your outlook. It's a very Japanese idea. 

Kawaii has to do with all things cute and adorable; the term is used generally in pop culture but in Japanese means something more specific: the affection of a parent for a child coupled with protectiveness for the innocent and weak. Thus, Hello Kitty is considered "kawaii" because it exemplifies childlike innocence and evokes protective, caring instincts. 

Amagurimi is the Japanese art of crocheting or knitting stuffed animals. Their predominant feature is oversized heads. 

When you're looking for cute, it seems like three cheers for Japan!