I don't know about having strong hands and fingers, my fingers are not that straight any longer, but yes, Amigurumi is quite rough on hands, neck and shoulders and I do make sure I get plenty exercise moving the latter.
Otherwise this can be "headache-city"!
The last couple of projects I used Lily Sugar 'n Cream cotton and a size 4 hook. I like how that works up. I also started to insert pipe cleaner/ wire to stabilize the dolls, especially their necks.
Btw nobody is an expert in making these pieces, I think. I learn something new every time I have to figure out how to make something. And I agree totally, it is sheer joy when you did it and you know the recipient loves it.
Here is one of my very recent dolls, my 11 year old granddaughter asked me to make her Yoda, so I came up with this. The doll is about 2 feet tall. The challenge was not making him look creepy, but still looking wise and cute at the same time. Oh boy!
and before I made him a coat, so you can see the construction.
