How to Crochet the Cat Stitch: Step-by-Step Guide

Crocheting the cat stitch is a fun and creative way to add a unique texture to your projects. This stitch pattern is perfect for blankets, scarves, and other cozy creations. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of crocheting the cat stitch step by step.

Materials Needed:

  • Worsted weight yarn
  • Size I (5.5 mm) crochet hook

Instructions:

Foundation Row:

  1. Start by chaining 35 or any multiple of five.
  2. Make a double crochet in the fourth chain from the hook. The skipped chains form a second double crochet.
  3. Pattern Repeat: Skip four chains. In the next chain, create a shell stitch: two double crochet stitches, a chain one, and two more double crochet stitches in the same chain.
  4. Skip four chains and make another shell stitch in the next chain.
  5. Repeat this pattern across the row.
  6. At the end, skip four chains and make a double crochet in each of the last two remaining chains.

Row Two:

  1. Chain three and turn. This counts as the first double crochet.
  2. Make another double crochet in the next stitch.
  3. In the chain-one space of each shell stitch, create a new shell stitch.
  4. Repeat this pattern across the row.
  5. End the row with two double crochet stitches.

Row Three:

  1. Chain three and turn.
  2. Make a double crochet in the previous double crochet.
  3. Create an extended double crochet cluster stitch:
    • Yarn over and insert the hook into the space from two rows below.
    • Draw up a tall loop, yarn over, and pull through two loops.
    • Repeat the step once more, then yarn over and pull through all loops on the hook.
  4. Continue this pattern by placing shell stitches in shell spaces and extended cluster stitches in the appropriate spots.
  5. End the row with two double crochet stitches.

Row Four:

  1. Chain three and turn.
  2. Make a double crochet in the next stitch.
  3. Create a shell stitch in each shell stitch from the previous row.
  4. Continue this pattern across the row.
  5. End with two double crochet stitches.

Row Five & Beyond:

  1. Repeat row four to further define the cat’s body and ears.
  2. Change colors every three rows for a distinct design.
  3. Keep repeating rows three, four, and five for the full pattern.
  4. Finish on a row three for a completed cat design.

By following these steps, you can successfully create the cat stitch pattern in your crochet projects. Experiment with different colors and yarn types to make your project truly unique!

Happy crocheting!