How to crochet a CUTE CAT | Easy tutorial for beginners

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of crocheting a cute cat using plush (chunky) yarn. Designed for beginners, this step-by-step guide simplifies the techniques needed, including single crochet, increases, decreases, and assembly. By the end, you'll have a delightful cat plushie that you can share or sell.

Step 1: Gather Materials

Before starting, ensure you have the following materials:

• Plush yarn
• 5 mm crochet hook
• Dark cotton yarn (for details)
• 6 mm safety eyes
• Stuffing for toys
• Wool needle (for finishing)
• Optional: scissors and stitch markers

Step 2: Start the Base (Round 1)

1. Begin with a magic ring.
2. Crochet 6 single crochets (sc) into the magic ring.
3. Pull the ring tight to close it.

Step 3: Increase (Round 2)

1. In the first round, work 2 sc in each stitch for a total of 12 stitches.
2. Use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning of the round.

Step 4: Continue Increasing (Round 3)

1. Work 1 sc in the first stitch, then 2 sc in the next stitch.
2. Repeat this pattern around for a total of 18 stitches.

Step 5: Shape the Body (Round 4)

1. Work 1 sc in the first two stitches, then 2 sc in the next stitch.
2. Repeat this process around for a total of 24 stitches.

Step 6: Build Up the Body (Rounds 5-8)

1. Round 5: Work 1 sc in each of the 24 stitches.
2. Round 6: Work 1 sc in the first three stitches, then 2 sc in the next stitch (30 stitches).
3. Round 7: Work 1 sc in the first four stitches, then 2 sc in the next stitch (36 stitches).
4. Round 8: Work 1 sc in each of the 36 stitches.

Step 7: Install Safety Eyes

1. Position the safety eyes between rounds 6 and 7, approximately 6-8 stitches apart.
2. Secure the eyes as per the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 8: Filling the Plushie

1. Carefully stuff the plushie, ensuring even distribution without overstuffing.
2. Leave a small opening for the final rounds.

Step 9: Finish the Body (Round 9)

1. Work 1 sc in the first five stitches, then 2 sc in the next stitch (42 stitches).
2. Continue to work 1 sc in each stitch until the opening is closed.

Step 10: Create the Tail

1. Chain 20 to create the tail.
2. Work 1 sc in each chain stitch back to the base.
3. Attach the tail to the body with a wool needle.

Step 11: Make the Ears

1. Create two pieces using the following instructions:
   • Start with a magic ring and crochet 4 sc.
   • Increase in each stitch for the next round.
   • Shape the ears as desired, then attach them to the top of the head.

Step 12: Crochet the Legs

1. For each leg, start with a magic ring and crochet 6 sc.
2. Increase as done for the body, until the desired size is reached.
3. Attach each leg securely to the bottom of the body.

Step 13: Assemble the Cat

1. Position the ears, legs, and tail on the body.
2. Sew them in place using the wool needle.

Step 14: Add Final Embroidery

1. Use dark cotton yarn to add facial features (nose, mouth, whiskers).
2. Ensure your stitches are secure and evenly distributed.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully crocheted a cute cat plush! This project introduces basic crochet techniques while allowing for creativity in design. Consider sharing your finished cat on social media and tagging the designer @crafterfrog. For further practice, explore more patterns or experiment with different colors and yarn types. Happy crocheting!