How To Crochet A Cat (Easy Patterns + Tips)
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.If you’re a crocheter looking for a fun and charming new project, learning how to crochet a cat is the purrfect place to start!
Whether you’re into amigurumi or just want a quick stash-buster, these free crochet cat patterns are guaranteed to delight.
From adorable micro kittens to quirky doorstops and cozy cat beds, this guide will help you choose the right yarn, supplies, and stitches—plus provide some of the best free patterns to try.
Before You Get Started
Here are a few things to know before you crochet your first cat:
- Crochet cats involve shaping, joining, and stuffing—but are very doable for beginners.
- Start with an easy pattern and work your way up to more detailed ones.
- These patterns make great gifts and use up leftover yarn from your stash.
Recommended Yarn
For the best results when crocheting cats:
- Worsted (Category 4) cotton or acrylic yarn is ideal.
- Cotton (e.g., Paintbox Cotton Aran): great stitch definition
- Acrylic (e.g., Red Heart Super Saver): soft and beginner-friendly
- Cotton blends: balance structure + softness
- Velvet chenille: soft, plush look (e.g., Bernat Velvet)
For mini cats, try DK or sport weight. For jumbo plushies, use super bulky yarn with a smaller hook for firm stitches.
Learn more:
Supplies Needed
To crochet a cat, you’ll need:
- Yarn (cotton, acrylic, blends)
- Crochet hook (usually 3.5mm to 4mm)
- Polyester fiberfill stuffing
- Yarn needle/tapestry needle
- Scissors
- Embellishments: safety eyes, safety nose, buttons, embroidery thread
- Optional: stitch markers, pins, fabric paint
Techniques To Know
You don’t need advanced skills to crochet a cat, but these basics are essential:
- Slip knot & foundation chain (ch)
- Single crochet (sc)
- Magic circle (or magic ring)
- Increase (inc) and decrease (dec)
- Continuous rounds/spirals (no joins)
- Consistent tension and neat seaming
Most cat patterns involve attaching separate head, body, legs, ears, and tail.
What Is The Cat Stitch?
The “cat stitch” is not a standard crochet stitch like sc or dc. It’s more of a novelty texture, often used to mimic cat ears or silhouette motifs in themed projects.
You may see it used in:
- Cat-themed scarves or blankets.
- Decorative accents for pillows or hats.
It’s optional, but it adds a playful twist to feline-inspired designs.
Free Crochet Cat Patterns
Try these free (and adorable!) patterns:
1. Amineko Crochet Cat by Nekoyama
- A cuddly classic! Simple shape + great for personalization.
- View the free pattern here »
2. Small Amigurumi Cat by lilleliis
- Made with Drops Cotton Light + 3 mm hook.
- Great for beginners.
- Free pattern here »
3. Micro Crochet Kitten by SuAmi
- Super tiny & detailed—a fun challenge.
- Perfect as keychains or gifts.
- Available on Etsy »
Update 2025 – This pattern is no longer available for free; the finished item can be purchased directly from the designer on Etsy.
4. Crochet Cat Doorstop by Annaboo’s House
- Functional + decorative.
- Great for gifting or home decor.
- Free pattern here »
5. Pusheen Crochet Cat by I Crochet Things
- Cartoon-style plush in grey & black yarn.
- View the free pattern »
6. Crochet Cat Bed Roundup by Crochet Now
- Includes cat cocoons, caves & beds.
- Soft and cozy for your feline friend.
- (Update 2025: Roundup is no longer available)
Share your work
Join the Handy Little Me Knitting + Crochet Community on Facebook to share your projects, ask questions, and find inspiration.
You can also find us on various social media platforms, including Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, Etsy, Ravelry, and TikTok.
More Free Patterns To Check Out
- 15 Adorable Free Crochet Cat Patterns.
- Free Crochet Easter Eggs Pattern
- 50 Best Crochet Stitches For Blankets And Afghans
- Crochet Round Rug Pattern
- 35 Free Easter Crochet Patterns
- 35 Free Cotton Yarn Crochet Patterns
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- How To Crochet A Blanket
- 50 Stash Busting Crochet Patterns
- 40 Free Granny Square Crochet Patterns
- Crochet Blanket Sizes And How Much Yarn
- Outlander Shawl Crochet Pattern
- Crochet Beach Cover-Up Pattern
