Free Cat Knitting Patterns – Cute Cats & Kittens to Knit

Looking for a free cat knitting pattern? This collection brings together knitted cats and kittens in all shapes and sizes, from tiny quick-knit kitties to cuddly stuffed cats and larger plush toys.

You’ll find cats knitted flat on straight needles as well as designs worked in the round, with realistic cats, colourful characters and simple little kittens to choose from.

Whether you’re knitting for a cat lover, making a soft toy for a child or simply want a cute animal for your next project, start here to find the cat that suits the way you like to knit.

Which Cat Should You Knit?

If you’re looking for…	Try…
A tiny cat	Tiny Window Cat
A realistic curled-up cat	Orange Cat
Cats in different markings	Four Knitted Cats
A larger cuddly cat	Share Kitty
A cat knitted mostly in one piece	Tummy Kitty
A cat knitted in the round	Jiji the Cat
A dressed-up character	Amigurumi Cat
A cat knitted flat	Cat in a Jumper

Cat Knitting Patterns for Different Skill Levels

The best cat pattern isn’t necessarily the cutest one in the photographs—it also needs to suit how you like to knit.

For a smaller project: Start with one of the miniature cats. They’re a good choice when you want a knitted animal without committing to a large plush toy.

If you prefer straight needles: Look for the cats specifically designed to be knitted flat and sewn together rather than assuming every toy needs double-pointed needles.

If you prefer knitting in the round: Several cats in this collection use circular construction, including designs with very little seaming.

For something more substantial: Choose one of the larger stuffed cats if you want a proper cuddly toy rather than a miniature ornament.

Knitted Cats: Flat or in the Round?

You’ll find both construction styles in this collection.

Cats knitted flat are a good choice if you’re most comfortable with two straight needles. The pieces are shaped while knitting and sewn together afterwards.

Cats knitted in the round can reduce visible seams and are particularly useful for creating smooth three-dimensional bodies, although you’ll need to be comfortable with circular toy knitting.

Neither method is better—the right one is simply the one you enjoy knitting.

What Yarn Is Best for a Knitted Cat?

There isn’t one yarn that works for every cat pattern.

Smooth yarns make the stitches and shaping easy to see, while fuzzy or textured yarns can give a knitted cat a softer, fur-like appearance. Colour is another easy way to personalise your toy.

Try traditional ginger, tabby, grey, black, cream or black-and-white, or forget realism altogether and knit your cat in your favourite colour.

Always check the individual pattern before choosing yarn, as changing the yarn weight can substantially change the finished size and appearance of a knitted toy.