Crocheting the Cat Stitch is a fun and playful way to add personality to your projects. This stitch creates a series of small, cat-like shapesāresembling a catās face with earsāthat repeat across your fabric. Itās a unique textured stitch thatās perfect for scarves, blankets, sweaters, and accessories for any cat lover!
Whether youāre a seasoned crocheter or an ambitious beginner, this guide will walk you through exactly how to crochet the Cat Stitch, including pattern repeats, helpful tips, and how to use it in your projects.
š§¶ What Is the Cat Stitch?
The Cat Stitch is a combination of basic crochet stitchesāusually single crochet (sc), double crochet (dc), and chain stitches (ch)āarranged in a special pattern to form “cat ear” shapes. Itās a two-row repeat and works well with multiple yarn types and hook sizes.
Skill Level: Advanced beginner or intermediate
Fabric Texture: Lightly textured with decorative cat-ear shapes
Great For: Baby blankets, pet accessories, kidsā clothes, bags, and novelty home dĆ©cor
šŖ” Supplies Youāll Need
- Yarn: Any yarn will do, but a light to medium-weight yarn (DK or worsted) works best to show off the cat shapes clearly
- Hook: Match your yarnācommonly 4.0 mm (G-6) to 5.5 mm (I-9)
- Tapestry needle
- Scissors
Optional: Stitch markers to keep track of repeats or rows
š§µ Abbreviations & Stitches Used
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ch | chain |
| sc | single crochet |
| dc | double crochet |
| sk | skip |
| st | stitch |
| rep | repeat |
You should be comfortable with these basic stitches before starting.
š± How to Crochet the Cat Stitch
š¹ Foundation Row
Start with a multiple of 4 + 1 chains.
Example: Chain 25 (24 + 1)
š¹ Row 1 ā Base Row
- Sc in 2nd ch from hook, and in each ch across.
- Turn your work.
Youāll now have a solid row of single crochet as your foundation.
š¹ Row 2 ā Cat Stitch Formation
This is where the fun begins!
- Ch 3 (counts as first dc).
- Sk next 2 sts, (dc, ch 1, dc) in next st ā this is the cat’s face and ears!
- Sk 2 sts, then rep (dc, ch 1, dc) in next st across.
- When 3 sts remain: sk 2 sts, and dc in last st.
This row creates the openwork “cat ear” motifs.
š¹ Row 3 ā Stabilizing the Stitch
This row builds between the “cats” for structure.
- Ch 1, turn.
- Sc in each stitch and ch-1 space across.
- This means youāll sc in the dc, ch-1 space, and next dc from each cat shape.
- Continue across the row, finishing with a sc in the turning ch-3.
š Repeat Pattern
- Row 2: Create cat shapes with (dc, ch 1, dc)
- Row 3: Single crochet into each st and ch-1 space
Repeat these two rows for your desired length.
š§¶ Example Project: Cat Stitch Mug Cozy
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn
- 5.0 mm hook
Instructions:
- Chain 25.
- Work Rows 1ā3 of Cat Stitch.
- Repeat Rows 2ā3 until piece measures desired size.
- Fasten off and sew ends together or add a button loop.
š Tips for Success
- Count carefully: Missing a stitch will offset your cat shapes.
- Use a lighter yarn color for better stitch visibility, especially if youāre just learning.
- Block your work if the edges curlāit helps highlight the cat design.
- Customize cat ears: Make the ch-1 into ch-2 for more dramatic āears.ā
š¾ Fun Variations and Uses
- Color changes: Switch yarn colors every few rows for rainbow cats!
- Filet-style cats: Work the stitch with lighter yarn and a larger hook for a lacy effect.
- Borders: Add a scalloped edge or crab stitch border for a decorative finish.
Perfect Projects:
- Childrenās blankets or pillows
- Pet beds or mats
- Cat-themed tote bags
- Book sleeves or pouches
- Whimsical sweaters or cardigans
Video tutorial:
āØ Final Thoughts
The Cat Stitch is a whimsical and rewarding crochet technique that adds a dash of charm and personality to any project. Once you master the repeat, it becomes a soothing and enjoyable stitch that builds quickly and looks fantastic.
Whether you’re crafting for a feline-loving friend or just want a playful touch in your next project, the Cat Stitch is sure to leave a paw-sitive impression!
