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Cat Paws Crochet Christmas Stocking Pattern
Create a fun and festive Crochet Cat Paws Christmas Stocking Pattern to add charm to your holiday decor. This whimsical stocking features adorable cat paw prints and a delightful fish motif, making it a perfect project for cat lovers. With vibrant colors and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be able to create this unique stocking in no time. The pattern combines basic stitches with some shaping, ensuring an enjoyable crocheting experience suitable for intermediate levels.
Follow along as we guide you step-by-step through the process, from assembling the side panels to adding the charming details. Gather your materials and let’s get started!
Project Details
- Crochet terminology: US terminology
- Skill level: Intermediate
- Finished size: 13½ inches long
- Construction method: Worked in rows and rounds
Materials and Tools
| Yarn Option | Yarn and Specifications | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Color A | RED HEART® Super Saver® 316 Soft White | 1 skein |
| Color B | RED HEART® Super Saver® 624 Tea Leaf | 1 skein |
| Color C | RED HEART® Super Saver® 319 Cherry Red | 1 skein |
| Color D | RED HEART® Super Saver® 312 Black (for fish face) | 1 skein |
- Crochet Hook: 5mm [US Size H-8]
- Yarn Needle
Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ch | Chain |
| sc | Single Crochet |
| hdc | Half Double Crochet |
| dc | Double Crochet |
| tr | Treble Crochet |
| inc | Increase |
| dec | Decrease |
| sl st | Slip Stitch |
Preparation and Techniques
Working in Rounds
This pattern incorporates both joined rows and continuous rounds. Pay attention to the specified techniques in each section, especially when making the paws and fish.
Complete Pattern Instructions
Side (Make 2)
- With A, ch 34.
- Row 1 (Right Side): Sc in 2nd ch from hook and next 31 ch, 3 sc in last ch, working on opposite side of ch work 32 sc; turn – 67 sc.
- Row 2: Ch 1, sc in 32 sc, [inc] 3 times, sc in remaining 32 sc; turn – 70 sc.
- Row 3: Ch 1, sc in 33 sc, inc, sc in next 2 sc, inc, sc in 33 sc; turn – 72 sc.
- Row 4: Ch 1, sc in 34 sc, [inc] 4 times, sc in 34 sc; turn – 76 sc.
- Row 5: Ch 1, sc in 37 sc, [inc] twice, sc in 37 sc; turn – 78 sc.
- Row 6: Ch 1, sc in 37 sc, [inc] 4 times, sc in 37 sc; turn – 82 sc.
- Row 7: Ch 1, sc in 37 sc, inc, sc in next 6 sc, inc, sc in 37 sc; turn – 84 sc.
- Row 8: Ch 1, sc in 38 sc, inc, sc in next 2 sc, [inc] twice, sc in next 2 sc, inc, sc in 38 sc; turn – 88 sc.
- Row 9: Ch 1, sc in 27 sc, hdc in next 10 sc, 2 hdc in next sc, hdc in next 2 sc, 2 hdc in next sc, hdc in next 6 sc, 2 hdc in next sc, hdc in next 2 sc, 2 hdc in next sc, hdc in next 10 sc, sc in next 27 sc; turn – 92 sts.
- Row 10: Ch 1, sc in 30 sts, [skip 3 sts, 7 tr in next st, skip 3 sts, sc in next st] twice, sc in next st, [skip 3 sts, 7 tr in next st, skip 3 sts, sc in next st] twice, sc in 29 sts; turn.
- Row 11: Ch 1, sc in 32 sts, [inc] 3 times, sc in next 5 sts, [inc] 3 times, sc in next 6 sts, [inc] 3 times, sc in next 5 sts, [inc] 3 times, sc in 32 sc. Fasten off.
Center Paw
- With B ch 6.
- Round 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in next 3 ch, 3 sc in last ch, working on opposite side of ch, sc in next 3 ch, 2 sc in last ch; do not join but work in continuous rounds – 12 sc.
- Round 2: Inc in first sc, sc in next 3 sc, [inc] 3 times, sc in next 3 sc, [inc] twice – 18 sc.
- Round 3: (Sc, hdc) in first sc, (hdc, dc) in next sc, 2 dc in next sc, slip st in next sc, 2 dc in next sc, (dc, hdc) in next sc, (hdc, sc) in next sc, sc in remaining 11 sc. Fasten off.
- Sew the paw in place on the front side of the stocking.
Toe Prints (Make 4)
- With B ch 2; 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook.
- Round 2: Inc in each sc around; join with a slip st in first sc. Fasten off.
- Sew in place.
Fish
- With C, ch 2; 3 sc in 2nd ch from hook; turn.
- Row 2: Ch 1, inc in each sc across; turn – 6 sc.
- Row 3: Ch 1, sc in next sc, inc, sc to last 2 sc; inc, sc in last sc; turn – 8 sc.
- Row 4: Ch 1, sc in each sc across; turn.
- Row 5: Repeat Row 3 – 10 sc.
- Rows 6 and 7: Repeat Rows 4 and 5 – 12 sc.
- Row 8: Repeat Row 4.
- Row 9: Ch 1, sc in next 6 sc; fin: ch 6, sc in 2nd ch from hook, hdc in next ch, dc in next ch, tr in next ch, hdc in last ch, sc in last 6 sc; turn.
- Row 10: Ch 1, sc in first 6 sc, skip fin, sc in last 6 sc; turn.
- Row 11: Repeat Row 4.
- Row 12: Ch 1, sc in first sc, dec, sc to last 3 sc; dec, sc in last sc; turn – 10 sc.
- Row 13: Repeat Row 4.
- Rows 14 and 15: Repeat Row 12 – 6 sc.
- Row 16: Ch 1, sc in first sc, [dec] twice, sc in last sc; turn – 4 sc.
- Row 17: Repeat Row 4.
- Row 18: Ch 4, (2 tr, dc, hdc, sc) in first sc, slip st in next 2 sc, (sc, hdc, dc, 3 tr) in last sc; turn.
- Row 19: Ch 1, sc in first 6 sts, slip st in 2 slip sts, sc in next 5 sts and in top of ch-4. Fasten off.
- With D, embroider the eyes and mouth. Sew the fish in place.
Assembly and Finishing
Sew the Pieces Together
- Sew the front and back sides together through both loops of the last row.
Border and Hanging Loop
- Join A in top center back stitch of stocking with sc; work sc evenly around.
- Ch 10 for the hanger.
- Sc in each sc around to last 2 sc, skip last 2 sc, work 16 dc in ch-10 loop, skip first 2 sc of last round; join with a slip stitch in next sc.
- Fasten off.
Practical Tips
- Use a stitch marker to mark the beginning of your rounds to keep track of your progress.
- To achieve a clean edge when switching colors, ensure you pull the new color through the last yarn over of the previous stitch.
- When sewing on the details like the fish, use the same color threads to make the joins less visible.
- Blocking your completed stocking can help shape it nicely, especially after sewing.
Troubleshooting
- Problem: Uneven stitches and edges.
Cause: Inconsistent tension throughout the project.
Check: Ensure you are holding the yarn evenly and relax while crocheting. - Problem: Missing stitches in the rows.
Cause: Overlooking increases or decreases.
Check: Count your stitches often, especially after increases.
Care
To maintain the quality of your Crochet Cat Paws Christmas Stocking, hand wash in cold water and lay flat to dry. Do not expose to direct sunlight for extended periods. For best results, keep your stocking in a cool, dry place when storing it away.
- Hand wash cold
- Lay flat to dry
- Keep away from direct sunlight
Frequently Asked Questions
What yarn can I use for this project?
You can use any medium-weight (worsted) yarn that matches the yardage and colors listed, but using RED HEART® Super Saver® will yield the best results for color vibrancy and strength.
Can I use a different hook size?
While a 5mm (US H-8) hook is recommended for this project, you can use a different size to achieve a tighter or looser gauge. However, note that using a different hook size may alter the overall size of the finished stocking.
What is the best way to sew on the details?
Utilizing a yarn needle and the same yarn color, sew on the paw prints and fish carefully, ensuring the stitches are even to maintain a uniform look.
Can I customize the colors?
Absolutely! Feel free to personalize your stocking colors. Just keep in mind that using contrasting shades can enhance the visual appeal of your paw prints and fish motifs.
How long does it take to complete this project?
The time it takes to complete the stocking will vary based on your experience and dedication. On average, expect to spend several hours on this project from start to finish.



