Furry Cat Pillow

Furry Cat Pillow by Frugal Knitting Haus

Project Overview

The Furry Cat Pillow is an intermediate-level knitted toy designed by Frugal Knitting Haus. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a soft, cuddly cat-shaped pillow measuring approximately 13 inches high including the ears. The finished size may vary depending on the amount of stuffing used, making it customizable for different preferences.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a three-dimensional cat pillow constructed from two knitted side panels that are sewn together and stuffed. The design features a distinct body and head structure with ears, creating a charming feline form suitable as a decorative pillow or plush toy.

Techniques Used

• Two-strand knitting: Fur yarn is held together in pairs throughout the project for added texture and dimension
• Increases: Knit-front-and-back (KFB) increases are used to shape the body and head sections
• Decreases: Knit-two-together (K2tog) decreases create the neck shaping that transitions from body to head
• Stockinette stitch variation: A modified stockinette pattern with knit-purl combinations creates visual interest
• Embroidery: Eyes and nose are embroidered using contrasting worsted weight yarn for facial details
• Seaming and stuffing: The two side panels are sewn together and filled with pillow or toy stuffing to create dimension

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (K): Forms the foundation of the fabric
• Purl stitch (P): Creates textural variation in the knit-purl pattern
• Knit-front-and-back increase (KFB): Used to increase stitches for shaping the body and head
• Knit-two-together decrease (K2tog): Used for neck shaping and head decreases
• Cast-on: Initial stitch setup for each side panel

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: The pattern calls for Lion Brand Fun Fur in a chunky weight, with 4 balls required for the complete project. Two strands of fur yarn are held together throughout, creating a thick, plush fabric. A contrasting color worsted weight yarn is needed for embroidering the facial features (eyes and nose).

Tools and Notions: US size 10 knitting needles are used for working with the doubled chunky yarn. The pattern also requires pillow or toy stuffing to fill the completed cat shape and 1 yard of satin ribbon for a decorative necktie accent.

Gauge: The pattern is worked at a gauge of approximately 4 stitches per 1 inch, which is typical for chunky weight yarn and contributes to the quick, satisfying knitting experience suitable for intermediate crafters.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it appropriate for knitters with some experience. While the basic stitches involved (knit, purl, increases, and decreases) are fundamental, the shaping sequences and assembly process require attention to pattern instructions and basic finishing skills.