How to knit a cat purse? - briefly
To create a cat purse, you'll need yarn in your desired color and two knitting needles suitable for your yarn weight. Begin by casting on stitches, typically around 30-40 depending on the size you want, then work rows of basic knit stitch until your fabric reaches about 12 inches long. Finish by binding off the stitches, leaving a tail to sew up the seam and create a handle for your purse.
How to knit a cat purse? - in detail
Creating a whimsical and functional cat-themed purse involves several steps, from selecting the right materials to executing intricate details that bring the feline motif to life. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of knitting a charming cat purse, ensuring you have all the information needed to create your own unique accessory.
Materials Needed:
- Yarn: Choose a medium-weight yarn in colors that represent your desired cat design (black for the body, white for the belly and paws, etc.).
- Knitting needles: Select appropriate needles based on your chosen yarn's weight.
- Stuffing material: Polyester fiberfill or similar stuffing for the cat's head and body.
- Black embroidery floss: For whiskers and other details.
- Sewing needle: For attaching features and closing seams.
- Scissors.
- Tapestry needle: For weaving in ends.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Knitting the Cat Body:
- Cast on 30 stitches using your main color (black).
- Knit 4 rows, creating a rectangle for the cat's back and head.
- Decrease by knitting two together (k2tog) at each end of the row for the next 10 rows to shape the cat's body and head.
2. Knitting the Cat Belly:
- Cast on 30 stitches using white yarn.
- Knit 4 rows, creating a rectangle for the belly.
- Decrease by knitting two together (k2tog) at each end of the row for the next 10 rows to shape the belly.
3. Creating the Paws:
- Cast on 6 stitches using white yarn.
- Knit 4 rows, creating a small rectangle for one paw.
- Repeat to create three more identical paws.
4. Assembling the Cat Purse:
- With right sides facing, place the black body and white belly rectangles together, aligning their decreased ends.
- Using the mattress stitch or whip stitch, sew the pieces together along the decreased edges to form the cat's body shape.
- Stuff the cat body with fiberfill, ensuring it is evenly distributed for a plump look.
- Close the opening with a few stitches and weave in the ends using the tapestry needle.
5. Attaching the Paws:
- Sew each paw to the side of the cat's body, positioning them symmetrically. Use the sewing needle and white yarn for a seamless look.
- Stuff each paw lightly with fiberfill to maintain their shape.
6. Adding Details:
- Using black embroidery floss, create whiskers by sewing small lines on either side of the cat's face.
- Embroider eyes and a nose using appropriate colors.
7. Creating the Purse Strap:
- Cast on 12 stitches using your main color (black).
- Knit in stockinette stitch until the strap reaches the desired length (approximately 36 inches).
- Bind off loosely and weave in the ends.
8. Attaching the Strap:
- With the cat's back facing up, sew one end of the purse strap securely to each side of the cat's body, ensuring it is evenly placed.
Finishing Touches:
- Gently pull on the yarn tails to close any small gaps or holes in your knitting.
- Weave in all loose ends using the tapestry needle for a clean finish.
By following these detailed steps, you will create a unique and charming cat purse that combines both function and whimsy. Enjoy your new accessory and let it be a conversation starter wherever you go!