Crochet Loaf Cat

The Crochet Loaf Cat is an adorable handmade creation that combines the charm of a feline loaf pose with the artistry of crochet. This delightful cat figurine captures the essence of a cozy kitty curled up in a loaf shape, making it a cute and playful addition to any cat lover's collection. With its intricate crochet details and endearing design, the Crochet Loaf Cat brings a touch of whimsy and warmth to any space. Whether displayed on a shelf, desk, or mantel, this charming crochet creation is sure to bring a smile to your face every time you see it. Embrace the cuteness of the Crochet Loaf Cat and let its friendly appeal brighten up your day!

Materials Needed:

• Yarns: Size 4 yarn for the main colour and a tiny bit of white yarn for the eye details. The example uses Stylecraft Special Aran in Copper for the main color and Paintbox Simply Aran in Paper White for the details. You'll also need some black thread or embroidery floss for the face.
• Crochet Hook: 3.0 mm hook or size suitable for your yarn.
• Other Supplies: Safety eyes (6mm recommended), tapestry needle, scissors, stuffing material, stitch marker.

Abbreviations:

• SC - Single Crochet
• INC - Increase (2 SC in the next stitch)
• DEC – Decrease (Invisible decrease recommended)

Step by step Pattern

Head and Body:

1. Magic Circle: Make a magic circle with 6 SC. Alternatively, chain 2 and SC 6 into the 2nd chain from the hook.
2. Round 1: INC in each stitch around (12 SC).
3. Round 2: [SC, INC] repeat around (18 SC).
4. Round 3: [SC in the next 2 stitches, INC] repeat around (24 SC).
5. Round 4: [SC in the next 3 stitches, INC] repeat around (30 SC).
6. Round 5: [SC in the next 4 stitches, INC] repeat around (36 SC).
7. Ears (Front Loop Only): SC 2, then [Front Loop Only SC, chain 2, SC in 2nd chain from hook, Front Loop Only SC in same stitch as first FL-SC, SC 5 in both loops] repeat once for the second ear. Finish the round by SC in the remaining stitches.
8. Body: Continue SC in each stitch around for 10 rounds.
9. Legs: After 10 rounds, form the feet with a [bobble stitch, SC 3, bobble stitch], evenly spaced to match the ear positions. Continue by SC around for one more round.
10. Decreasing for Bottom: Start reducing while maintaining the shape:
    • Round 1: [SC in next 4 stitches, DEC] repeat around.
    • Round 2: [SC in next 3 stitches, DEC] repeat around.
    • Round 3: [SC in next 2 stitches, DEC] repeat around.
    • Round 4: [SC, DEC] repeat around.
11. Start stuffing before the hole gets too small.
12. Final Decreases: DEC around until the opening is closed. Fasten off and weave in the ends.

Tail:

1. Magic Circle: 6 SC in a magic circle.
2. Rounds: Continue SC in each stitch around for 11 rounds for the tail.
3. Stuff slightly if needed (optional), and then sew the tail to the body. Minimal sewing is required for attaching the tail.

Face:

1. Safety Eyes: Attach safety eyes between the ears and feet, adding white yarn around for extra detail.
2. Mouth and Nose: Use black thread to embroider the face. Start with a vertical line for the nose, then stitch a "V" below it for the mouth, and make horizontal stitches on the sides for whiskers.

Finishing Touches:

• Use a tiny bit of white yarn for the sparkle in the eyes and black for the facial details.
• Adjust the stuffing as needed to give the cat a proper "loaf" shape.
• Shape the ears and the tail for a more realistic or desired look.

Optional Halloween Variation:

• Consider adding a witch hat or other themed accessories for a festive touch.

Notes:

• This pattern allows for customization in terms of size, yarn type, and hook size.
• Remember to adjust the size of the hook and stitches based on the yarn.
• The pattern uses US crochet terminology.