Everyone loves the Lucky Cat, right? Of course, in many homes, a porcelain one would not be practical, or some people may simply not like ceramics. This lucky cat fills that niche exactly. It’s a relatively simple ami (upraised paw notwithstanding) with some interesting decorations. You can make this by itself or as part of a larger collection of lucky cats to bestow on your friends and loved ones for their enjoyment and luck.
Raise a Paw for Luck!
Did you know that the lucky cat (also called Maneki Neko) originates in Japanese folklore? It is used as a lucky charm in Japanese houses, restaurants, and stores.
Today, it’s an iconic symbol of luck that has become popular worldwide, especially among those who love Far Eastern culture.
The cat features a distinctive pose with one raised paw. Traditionally, the left paw invites customers, while the right paw attracts wealth.
This pattern raises one paw to follow the lucky cat style. However, it is up to you which paw you will choose to keep up!
What You’ll Need for Your Crochet Lucky Cat
The Lucky Cat Amigurumi crochet pattern by Abby Sy calls for sport-weight yarn and a 3 mm hook. The original sample was made using Shine Sport from Knit Picks. It’s a premium blend of cotton (60%) and rayon (40%) that is smooth to the touch, easy-washable, and long-wearing.
But of course, you can use any other yarn you want. The cat figurine is quite small, so it will make a great stash-busting project!
Don’t forget to prepare 6 mm safety eyes and fiberfill stuffing to bring this feline friend to life!
Making the Lucky Cat
This lovely crochet cat amigurumi pattern is worked in continuous rounds. What you need to know to be able to make it is simple stitches like single crochet, double crochet, and half double crochet.
The cat also needs some shaping, so make sure to practice how to increase and decrease stitches before getting down to this project. Moreover, working in back loops only and front loops only will be key to recreating all the details.
Ways to Use or Gift Your Lucky Cat
This handmade crochet cat will make a great decorative piece or gift idea. Check out the best of them:
- Housewarming gift for good fortune.
- Handmade mascot for your desk.
- Baby mobile or nursery decor.
- Wedding or New Year’s token.
Got other awesome ideas? Share them in the comments section below!
FAQ
How big is the finished Lucky Cat?
The finished cat amigurumi is about 4″ tall when crocheted with recommended supplies. Changing the hook size or the weight of yarn will make your plushie bigger or smaller, so keep that in mind when choosing materials for this project.
What’s the best way to embroider the face?
To stitch the cat’s face, use a black or red embroidery thread like Curio #10 Thread. You can reproduce the original facial expressions or come up with your own ideas!
