Cat Ears Scrunchie

Cat Ears Scrunchie by Sarah Bishop

What is Being Made

The Cat Ears Scrunchie is a decorative knitted hair accessory designed to hold hair in place while adding a playful feline touch. This beginner-friendly project creates a small cylindrical scrunchie base with attached cat ears, perfect for anyone looking to combine functional fashion with creative knitting.

Knitting Techniques Used

This project employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginners:

• Knitting in the round: The main scrunchie body is knit circularly, which creates a seamless tubular fabric ideal for this small project
• Picked-up stitches: The cat ears are created by picking up stitches from the completed scrunchie base, allowing them to be knit directly onto the finished body
• Mattress stitch seaming: After the ears are knit, the scrunchie is seamed together around the circumference using mattress stitch, a nearly invisible joining technique that creates a polished finish
• Elastic integration: An elastic hair tie is incorporated into the scrunchie structure to provide functionality and durability

Stitches and Construction Details

While specific stitch patterns are not detailed in the provided content, the project uses basic knit stitches worked in the round on small needles. The construction method—working the body first, then picking up and knitting the ears—demonstrates an efficient approach to adding dimensional details to a small project. The use of mattress stitch for seaming ensures the scrunchie maintains its shape and aesthetic appeal after assembly.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern calls for approximately 50 meters (55 yards) of 4-ply weight yarn. The designer used Drops Fabel in brown, requiring approximately 12 grams of yarn. Any yarn matching the specified gauge can be substituted, making this project adaptable to yarn stash options.

Needles: 3mm double-pointed needles or circular needles are required, sized to meet the pattern gauge of 24 stitches and 32 rows over 10 centimeters (4 inches). A circular sock needle is specifically recommended as an ideal tool for managing the small number of stitches required for this project.

Additional supplies: A strong elastic hair tie forms the functional core of the scrunchie, or elastic can be made separately. A cable needle or small stitch holder (or scrap yarn) is needed for managing stitches during construction. A darning needle and scissors complete the finishing process for seaming and weaving in ends. Optional materials include pins or contrast yarn for basting during assembly.

Difficulty Level

This is a beginner-level project, making it an excellent introduction to knitting in the round and basic seaming techniques. The small scale and straightforward construction method allow new knitters to practice essential skills while creating a wearable, practical accessory.