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If you’re looking for an irresistibly cute crochet project, this cat loaf pattern is perfect for you! These chubby, loaf-shaped kitties have taken the crafting world by storm with their adorable round bodies, tiny ears, and sweet expressions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, this free pattern will guide you through creating your own cuddly cat loaf that’s perfect as a decorative piece, a gift, or even a stress-relief toy.
This pattern uses basic crochet stitches and works up quickly with chunky yarn. The finished cat loaf has a wonderfully squishy texture and a charming personality that will brighten any space. Let’s dive into the materials and instructions you’ll need to create your very own crochet cat loaf!
Deisgned by lespetitesmainsdekhuccay
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather these essential supplies:
- Yarn milk cotton (mine 4ply)
- Hook 2.5mm
- 5mm safety eyes
- Stuff cotton
Choose your favorite colors to create unique cat loaves – classic white, gray, orange tabby, or even creative colors like pink or black!
Abbreviations Guide
Familiarize yourself with these common crochet abbreviations used throughout the pattern:
- mr: magic ring
- ch: chain
- slst: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- hdr: half double crochet
- dc: double crochet
- inc: increase
- dec: decrease
- bo: popcorn crochet
Body Instructions
The body forms the main loaf shape of your adorable cat. Follow each round carefully:
R1: 6sc into mr (6)
R2: 6inc (12)
R3: sc, inc (18)
R4: 2sc, inc (24)
R5: 3sc, inc (30)
R6 – R14: sc each stitch (30)
R15: 3sc, dec (24)
R16: 2sc, dec (18)
(fill inside)
R17: sc, dec (6)
(leave a long tail for sewing)
Ear Instructions (make 2)
Create two small ears to give your cat loaf character:
st knot
ch 2, skip 1, (sc, 3dc, sc), slst
(leave a long tail for sewing)
These tiny ears are simple but add so much charm to the finished piece. Make sure to leave long tails for easy attachment to the body.
Tail Instructions
Add a cute tail to complete your cat loaf:
sl knot
(attach the yarn of the back of the cat)
ch 10, skip 2, 8hdc, slst
(cut the yarn and weaves in the end)
The tail can be positioned at the back of your cat loaf or to the side, depending on your preference.
Assembly Tips
Once you’ve completed all the pieces, it’s time to bring your cat loaf to life:
- Stuff the body firmly but not too tightly – you want it to maintain that soft, loaf-like appearance
- Attach the safety eyes before closing the body completely (typically between rounds 8-10)
- Use the long tails from the ears to sew them securely to the top of the head
- Embroider a small nose and mouth using yarn or embroidery floss
- Attach the tail to the back of the body
- Add pink cheeks using pink yarn or fabric paint for extra cuteness
Frequently Asked Questions
Using 4ply milk cotton yarn and a 2.5mm hook, the finished cat loaf will be approximately 3-4 inches tall and wide, creating a perfectly palm-sized amigurumi that’s great for display or as a stress toy.
Yes! You can use any yarn weight, but remember to adjust your hook size accordingly. Using bulky yarn will create a larger cat loaf, while fingering weight will make a tiny version. Always match your hook to your yarn weight for best results.
Attach the safety eyes between rounds 8-10 of the body, before you stuff and close the body. Position them about 4-5 stitches apart for a cute expression. Once secured, safety eyes cannot be removed, so plan their placement carefully.
Add details like embroidered whiskers using white thread, pink cheeks with colored pencil or fabric paint, and experiment with different ear placements. You can also add markings like tabby stripes or calico patches using surface crochet or embroidery techniques.
Conclusion
Congratulations on creating your adorable crochet cat loaf! This charming pattern is perfect for using up yarn scraps and makes wonderful handmade gifts for cat lovers. The simple construction means you can easily create a whole family of cat loaves in different colors and sizes.
Once you’ve mastered this pattern, try experimenting with different facial expressions, adding accessories like tiny bows or collars, or creating seasonal variations with holiday-themed colors. Share your finished cat loaves with fellow crocheters and inspire others to create these delightful projects. Happy crocheting!
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