Free Crochet Pattern: Mr. Smiley Face Cat Toy

Cats love to play.  Rather than purchasing store-bought cat toys, there are many options for home made cat toys.  If you are a crocheter, try making this smiley face ball for your cats.  This crochet pattern is simple enough for even a beginner.

The example shown was crocheted using worsted weight yarn and a size F hook and measures about 1 1/2 inches across.  Finished size will vary depending on yarn selection, hook size, and tension.  For this project, it is best to use a hook one size smaller than recommended for your yarn.  This will keep your stitches tight so that stuffing won't leak out as your cat plays with its new toy.

R1: Ch 2; sc 6 in 2nd ch from hook (6 st)

R2: Sc 2 in each st around (12 st)

R3: *Sc 1; sc 2 in next st* repeat 6 times (18 st)

R4: *Sc 2; sc 2 in next st* repeat 6 times (24 st)

R5-8: Sc in each st around (24 st)

R9: *Sc 2, dec 1* repeat 6 times (18 st)

Work on face. Use safety eyes or embroider eyes with black yarn. Stitch in a black mouth as well. Be sure to make stitches very secure to avoid being pulled out by claws or teeth.

R10: *Sc 1, dec 1* repeat 6 times (12 st)

Add stuffing. If desired, roll stuffing in catnip before putting it into the toy. (Catnip sticks well to polyfill.)

R11: *Sk next sc; sc 1* repeat 6 times (6 st)

R12: *Sk next sc; sl st 1* repeat 2 times; fasten off and weave in ends.