Chubby Mouse Cat Toy

Chubby Mouse Cat Toy

This is a great project for beginners because exact gauge is not particularly important.  The pattern is worked in continuous rounds, there is no joining or turning unless specified.

This pattern doesn't use a whole lot of yarn.  You should be able to get by with scraps left over from larger projects.    It about 60 minutes to complete - I'm a more experienced, thus faster, crocheter so it only takes me about 30 minutes.  

You will need 

Crochet Hook - Size D (3-3.25MM)
DK / Sport Weight Yarn
Fiberfill 
Catnip
Contrasting scraps of yarn for eyes and nose.

Note:  you can substitute dryer lint for fiberfill as a stuffer.  

Mouse Body

Ch 2
Rnd 1: Work 6 sc in first ch. Place marker in first stitch for beg of rnd; move marker up as each rnd is completed.
Rnd 2: Work 2 sc in each sc around - 12 sc.
Rnd 3: (*2 sc in next st, sc in next st), rep from * around - 18 sc.
Rnd 4: (*2 sc in next st, sc in each of next 2 sts), rep from * around - 24 sts.
Rnds 5-11: Sc in each sc around. 
Rnd 12: (*Sc2tog, sc in each of next 2 sts), rep from * around - 18 sts. 



Begin stuffing firmly with dried catnip and fiberfill.



Rnd 13: (*Sc2tog, sc in next st), rep from * around - 12 sts.
Rnd 14: Sc2tog around.
Fasten off.

Pull loose threads through into the body with the crochet hook.  Be careful not to pull stuffing out.

NOTE: sc2tog (sc decrease) Insert hook into st and draw up a loop. Insert hook into next st and draw up a loop. Yarn over, draw through all 3 loops on hook.

Tail

Determine which end of the body you want to be the bottom and which will be the head.  Near the base of the bottom select to stitch, insert the crochet hook through the stitch.  Loop and pull through yarn and crochet a chain to whatever length you like.  Fasten off.  

Attach a bell to the end if you're feeling fancy.






Ears (Make 2)


Ch 2 leaving a 3 inch tail
Rnd 1: Work 6 sc in first ch.
Rnd 2: Work 2 sc in each sc around - 12 sc.

Fasten off leaving a 3 inch tail.
Pull the center tail through a stitch or two from the outer tail.  Pulling to tighten the center.

The tails will be used to attach the ears to the mouse body.







Finishing

Keeping the tail location in mind, select a spot on the head to place the ears.  Insert the crochet hook through a stitch near the top and pull a tail through.  Then insert the crochet hook through a stitch near the top along the side and pull the other tail through.  Note that there is a front and back to the ears so make sure they're facing the right direction.  Tie the tails into a sturdy knot behind the ear and pull loose threads through. 


Select a location for the eyes and nose.  Insert the crochet hook through a stitch, loop the scrap of yarn and pull through.  Fasten off and pull loose ends through either side of the eyes and nose.

There's your mouse! 

ABBREVIATIONS / REFERENCES

beg = begin(s)(ning) 
ch(s) = chain(s)
rep = repeat(s)(ing) 
rnd(s) = round(s)
sc = single crochet 
st(s) = stitch(es)
sc2tog (sc decrease) 

Printable Pattern