Cat pillow DIY

A handmade stuffed cat pillow with colorful patterned fabric accents, designed as a decorative cushion and comfort item.

I don’t know about you but having a pet in London is quite a difficulty, especially if you are renting. I once wanted a cat, but came across other issues. This is quite a long story… ok, ok, I will say it quick: I wanted to adopt, but RSPCA was so concerned about me not working full time that they did not even bother to visit my place. I am still confused if I wasn’t adopting a child instead of pet, because part time job = can’t support a cat financially! Really? Anyways, I am happy I was not considered, because I don’t know how I would be baking now? Imagine all those hair all over the place. Maybe next time! 

Vickie’s flatmate, Fränzel would also like a cat, but can’t have it in rented place :-(. So as a gift (Vickie is leaving the house, so she wanted to give something nice to remember), we decided to make a stuffed cat! I know I know this might not replace a real cat, but look at those extra uses for it. You can have it as a cushion or a decoration, or a neck pillow! So don’t be sad if you are not able to keep a pet, make a stuffed one to cheer you up! 😉

You can download the cutting pattern here!

1. Start with cutting pieces out of the chosen fabric. Here we used denim (reused old jeans) and flower print cotton fabric. Did you noticed that the bottom cat piece (on the left) is smaller then the top cat piece (on the right)? That is only by 5mm circular, because flower pattern has to be showing slightly less then denim. If you are cutting both pieces in the same fabric make them both in the same size, that will make sewing easer!

A little tip: when you are cutting one piece twice, cut it on the fold. That way you will cut two pieces out of one pattern: one as you cut and one flip side.

Cutting patterns for a stuffed cat made from denim and floral fabric, displayed on a wooden background.

2. Next job is to stitch matching pieces together. It might be tricky with the main body as they slightly differs in size. While sewing on the machine hold the smaller piece on top and stretch it on the top of the bigger one. Leave stitch gap on all pieces so it can be inverted.

A colorful stuffed cat made from floral printed fabric, displayed on a wooden surface with instructions to leave a gap.

3. Now you can invert and stuff it with whatever soft things you can find (old pillow stuffing is perfect). No need to stuff the cat ears, they will be sticking out anyways! Maybe just iron them and fold the raw edges in.

A handmade stuffed cat made from denim fabric, lying on a wooden surface, with a flower-patterned tail piece alongside it.

4. Seal the body by stitching using the most basic stitch.

Close-up view of a partially stuffed fabric cat toy, featuring a floral cotton print and denim material, resting on a wooden surface.

5. Using the same stitch attach the tail to the body.

Close-up of a stitched stuffed cat toy made from denim and floral fabric, showcasing its tail.

And same with the ears: stitch all around!

Close-up of a denim stuffed cat in the process of being sewn, showing a partially stitched ear and colorful fabric detail.
Close-up of the ear section of a stuffed cat made from denim and floral fabric.
A close-up of a person's hand sewing a stuffed cat made from denim and colorful fabric. The needle is threaded, and the cat's paw is visible.

6. Now the only thing is left is the decoration. Feel free to add anything! We stitched flower buttons on for the eyes, embroidered “cheeks” and cute nose.

A handmade stuffed cat pillow made from denim and floral fabric, featuring embroidered facial details.

When your stuffed cat is finished, you can… just relax

A woman sitting on a beige chair with a handmade stuffed cat around her shoulders, smiling at the camera.

Psss… this cat is great for traveling when you have to sleep upwards, just put it around you neck!

Rasa xoxo

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