Deramores Dera-Cats Toy Knitting Pattern

Deramores Dera-Cats Knitted Toy Collection

What Is Being Made

The Deramores Dera-Cats pattern features a collection of intermediate-level knitted toy cats designed by Amanda Berry. Each finished cat measures approximately 22cm tall when sitting. These are stuffed plush toys created using traditional knitting techniques, perfect for craft enthusiasts looking to create charming handmade accessories. The pattern includes multiple cat designs that follow the same foundational construction method, allowing crafters to create a collection of adorable feline companions.

Techniques Used

This intermediate knitting project employs several essential knitting techniques suitable for crafters with some experience. The pattern utilizes stocking stitch as the primary fabric construction method, creating a smooth, classic knitted surface. Shaping is achieved through strategic increases and decreases worked throughout the pattern pieces. Crafters will practice the knit front and back (Kfb) increase technique to add stitches where needed for shaping, and both knit two together (K2tog) and slip, slip, knit (SSK) decrease methods to reduce stitches. The toy assembly involves seaming knitted pieces together using a tapestry needle, followed by stuffing to create three-dimensional form.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K): The fundamental stitch forming the primary fabric
• Purl (P): Used in combination with knit stitches for texture variation
• Stocking Stitch (St st): The main fabric structure combining knit and purl rows
• Knit Front and Back (Kfb): An increase technique for adding stitches during shaping
• Knit Two Together (K2tog): A right-leaning decrease used for shaping
• Slip, Slip, Knit (SSK): A left-leaning decrease providing decorative shaping options

Materials Required

Yarn: The pattern calls for Deramores Studio DK yarn in five colorways, with 100g of each color providing approximately 500g total yarn weight. The color palette includes Oatmeal (Yarn A), Frost (Yarn B), Ebony (Yarn C), Chocolate (Yarn D), and Burnt Orange (Yarn E), allowing crafters to create multi-colored cat designs with realistic or creative color combinations.

Needles: A pair of 3.75mm (US 5) straight knitting needles with a minimum length of 20cm are required for this project. The pattern achieves a tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows over a 10cm x 10cm square in stocking stitch on these needles, though the designer notes that exact tension is not critical for toy construction.

Additional Supplies: Crafters will need a tapestry needle for seaming pieces together, six 12mm cat toy safety eyes per cat, and approximately 500g of toy stuffing to fill the completed pieces. Safety eyes are specifically designed for toy making and ensure durability during play.

Design Notes

Created by Amanda Berry, a London College of Fashion graduate specializing in knitted toys, this pattern reflects professional toy design expertise. The Dera-Cats collection is suitable for intermediate knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to tackle shaping and assembly. The pattern is not recommended for children under 3 years due to small parts including safety eyes and potential loose threads, making it ideal for adult crafters or gift-giving to older children.