Monsieur Purl, the Dapper Cat Amigurumi Pattern

Welcome, fellow yarn enthusiasts! It's Patricia Poltera here, and I'm just so delighted to share this Monsieur Purl, the Dapper Cat amigurumi pattern with you all, completely free! There’s nothing quite like the joy of bringing a character to life, stitch by stitch. It's your wonderful enthusiasm, your shared projects, and the ways you choose to support my work that keep my crochet hooks merrily clicking away, allowing me to continue designing and offering these detailed patterns. So, from the bottom of my crochet heart, thank you!

Materials You'll Need for Monsieur Purl

Gathering your materials is like setting the stage for a tiny, soft play! Choosing the right yarn and tools truly makes a difference in your finished amigurumi.

Yarn

I always recommend a smooth worsted weight (or DK equivalent) yarn for amigurumi, as it gives beautiful stitch definition and is lovely to work with. For Monsieur Purl, you'll want:

• Main Color (MC): Light Grey-Blue (approx. 70-80 yards) – This will be for his head, main body, and parts of his limbs.
• Contrast Color 1 (CC1): Off-White/Cream (approx. 30-40 yards) – For his muzzle, ear insides, striped shirt sections, feet, and beret.
• Contrast Color 2 (CC2): Pale Yellow (approx. 15-20 yards) – For the accent stripes on his shirt.
• Contrast Color 3 (CC3): Muted Brown/Taupe (approx. 50-60 yards) – For his charming overalls.
• Accent Colors: Small amounts of Black or Dark Grey for embroidery (whiskers, mouth) and a tiny bit of Pink for his nose.

Hooks & Notions

Having the right tools at hand makes the process so much more enjoyable!

The Absolute Essentials:

• Crochet Hook: 2.5mm or 3.0mm (or hook size to achieve tight stitches with your chosen yarn – we want no stuffing peeking through!)
• Safety Eyes: 6mm or 8mm black safety eyes (adjust based on your desired size and expression)
• Stuffing: Polyester fiberfill
• Yarn Needle: For weaving in ends and assembly
• Scissors: Sharp ones, always!
• Stitch Marker: Essential for working in continuous rounds!

My 'Game Changer' Recommendations (Optional, but oh-so-helpful!):

• Pins: Straight pins with large heads are invaluable for positioning pieces before you sew them, ensuring perfect symmetry.
• Forceps or Stuffing Tool: These make stuffing small limbs a breeze, ensuring even firmness.
• A Row Counter: Keeps track of your rounds, letting you focus on your stitches!

Skills Required & Techniques Demystified for Monsieur Purl

Don't worry if some of these terms sound new; I'll explain them simply! This pattern uses common amigurumi techniques, making it approachable for many skill levels.

Key Techniques:

• Magic Ring (MR): This creates a tight, closed center for your amigurumi pieces, preventing holes. If you're new to it, there are wonderful video tutorials available!
• Single Crochet (sc): The foundational stitch for amigurumi, creating a dense, firm fabric.
• Increase (inc): Working two single crochet stitches into one stitch to expand your work.
• Decrease (dec): Reducing stitches to shape your amigurumi. I prefer the invisible decrease (inv dec) where you insert your hook into the front loop of the next two stitches and sc them together. It creates a much neater finish!
• Working in Continuous Rounds: Unlike traditional crochet, amigurumi often doesn't join rounds. You'll use a stitch marker to keep track of your first stitch in each round.
• Color Changes: A simple technique where you switch yarn colors at the end of a stitch or round to create stripes or distinct sections. I'll guide you through it!
• Basic Embroidery: For his charming facial details like the nose and whiskers.

A Note on Photos & Your Unique Monsieur Purl

Remember, every handmade item is unique, and that's its charm! Your Monsieur Purl might have slightly different proportions or a unique tilt to his beret, and that's perfectly normal. My photos are here to guide you, but allow your own creative spirit to shine through in your finished piece.

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The Monsieur Purl Amigurumi Pattern

Oh, I just know you’re going to love stitching up this darling Monsieur Purl amigurumi! If you enjoy this free pattern, do pop over to Patricia Poltera’s Amigurumi Pattern Parlour for more exclusive PDF patterns, detailed tutorials, and perhaps even some yarn-related musings. Now, let’s get to crocheting!

Notes before you begin:

• This pattern is worked in continuous rounds unless otherwise specified. Use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch of each round.
• Stuff pieces firmly as you go, ensuring a smooth, even finish.
• All stitches are US crochet terms.

Head (MC: Light Grey-Blue)

Round 1: Make a Magic Ring, sc 6 into ring. (6) 

Round 2: Inc in each stitch around. (12) 

Round 3: (Sc 1, inc) x 6. (18) 

Round 4: (Sc 2, inc) x 6. (24) 

Round 5: (Sc 3, inc) x 6. (30) 

Round 6: (Sc 4, inc) x 6. (36) 

Round 7: (Sc 5, inc) x 6. (42) 

Round 8-15: Sc around. (42) (8 rounds) Insert safety eyes between 

Rounds 11 and 12, about 6-7 stitches apart. Begin to stuff firmly. 

Round 16: (Sc 5, inv dec) x 6. (36) 

Round 17: (Sc 4, inv dec) x 6. (30) 

Round 18: (Sc 3, inv dec) x 6. (24) 

Round 19: (Sc 2, inv dec) x 6. (18) 

Round 20: (Sc 1, inv dec) x 6. (12) 

Round 21: Inv dec x 6. (6) Fasten off, leave a long tail for sewing. Finish stuffing and close hole.

Muzzle (CC1: Off-White/Cream)

Round 1: Make a Magic Ring, sc 6 into ring. (6) 

Round 2: Inc in each stitch around. (12) 

Round 3: (Sc 1, inc) x 6. (18) 

Round 4: Sc around. (18) Fasten off, leave a long tail for sewing. Lightly stuff.

Ears (Make 2 - MC: Light Grey-Blue and CC1: Off-White/Cream)

Work in rows. 

Row 1: With MC, Ch 2, sc 2 in second chain from hook. (2) 

Row 2: Ch 1, turn. Sc 2. (2) 

Row 3: Ch 1, turn. Sc 1, inc. (3) 

Row 4: Ch 1, turn. Sc 3. (3) 

Row 5: Ch 1, turn. Sc 2, inc. (4) 

Row 6: Ch 1, turn. Sc 4. (4) Fasten off. Set aside. Now, using CC1, repeat 

Rows 1-6 to create an inner ear. Place the CC1 ear on top of the MC ear. Sc around both layers, joining them together, making sure to keep the flat edge open for sewing. Fasten off, leave a tail for sewing.

Body (Starting with MC: Light Grey-Blue)

Round 1: Make a Magic Ring, sc 6 into ring. (6) 

Round 2: Inc in each stitch around. (12) 

Round 3: (Sc 1, inc) x 6. (18) 

Round 4: (Sc 2, inc) x 6. (24) 

Round 5: (Sc 3, inc) x 6. (30) 

Round 6-8: Sc around. (30) 

Round 9: Change to CC1 (Off-White/Cream). Sc around. (30) 

Round 10: Change to CC2 (Pale Yellow). Sc around. (30) 

Round 11: Change to CC1 (Off-White/Cream). Sc around. (30) 

Round 12: Change to CC2 (Pale Yellow). Sc around. (30) 

Round 13: Change to CC1 (Off-White/Cream). Sc around. (30) 

Round 14: Change to CC2 (Pale Yellow). Sc around. (30) 

Round 15: Change to CC1 (Off-White/Cream). Sc around. (30) 

Round 16: (Sc 3, inv dec) x 6. (24) 

Round 17: Sc around. (24) 

Round 18: (Sc 2, inv dec) x 6. (18) 

Round 19: Sc around. (18) Fasten off, leave a long tail for sewing. Stuff firmly.

Arms (Make 2 - Start with CC1: Off-White/Cream, then MC: Light Grey-Blue)

Round 1: Make a Magic Ring, sc 5 into ring. (5) 

Round 2: Inc in each stitch around. (10) 

Round 3-4: Sc around. (10) 

Round 5: Change to MC (Light Grey-Blue). Sc around. (10) 

Round 6-12: Sc around. (10) (7 rounds) Lightly stuff the hand part and lower arm. 

Round 13: Inv dec x 5. (5) Fasten off, leaving a tail for sewing. Do not stuff the very top.

Legs (Make 2 - Start with CC1: Off-White/Cream, then MC: Light Grey-Blue)

Round 1: Make a Magic Ring, sc 6 into ring. (6) 

Round 2: Inc in each stitch around. (12) 

Round 3: (Sc 1, inc) x 6. (18) 

Round 4-6: Sc around. (18) 

Round 7: (Sc 1, inv dec) x 6. (12) 

Round 8: Change to MC (Light Grey-Blue). Sc around. (12) 

Round 9-16: Sc around. (12) (8 rounds) Stuff firmly as you go. 

Round 17: Inv dec x 6. (6) Fasten off, leave a long tail for sewing. Finish stuffing and close hole.

Tail (MC: Light Grey-Blue)

Round 1: Make a Magic Ring, sc 5 into ring. (5) 

Round 2: Sc around. (5) 

Round 3: Inc in each stitch around. (10) 

Round 4-10: Sc around. (10) (7 rounds) Lightly stuff. 

Round 11: Inv dec x 5. (5) Fasten off, leave a tail for sewing.

Overalls (CC3: Muted Brown/Taupe)

Work the two legs first, then join.

Leg 1: 

Round 1: Make a Magic Ring, sc 6 into ring. (6) 

Round 2: Inc in each stitch around. (12) 

Round 3: (Sc 1, inc) x 6. (18) 

Round 4-9: Sc around. (18) (6 rounds) Fasten off. Do not cut yarn after the second leg.

Leg 2: Repeat Leg 1 instructions. Do NOT fasten off the second leg.

Joining Legs: 

Round 10: Ch 2. Join to any stitch on 

Leg 1 with sc. Sc 17 around Leg 1. Sc 2 into each of the 2 chains. Sc 18 around Leg 2. Sc 2 into the other side of the 2 chains. (40) 

Round 11-19: Sc around. (40) (9 rounds) 

Round 20: (Sc 8, inv dec) x 4. (36) 

Round 21: Sc around. (36) Fasten off, weave in ends.

Overall Straps (Make 2 - CC3: Muted Brown/Taupe) Ch 20 (or adjust length as needed to fit your cat). Fasten off, leave a tail for sewing.

Beret (CC1: Off-White/Cream)

Round 1: Make a Magic Ring, sc 6 into ring. (6) 

Round 2: Inc in each stitch around. (12) 

Round 3: (Sc 1, inc) x 6. (18) 

Round 4: (Sc 2, inc) x 6. (24) 

Round 5: (Sc 3, inc) x 6. (30) 

Round 6: (Sc 4, inc) x 6. (36) 

Round 7: (Sc 5, inc) x 6. (42) 

Round 8: (Sc 6, inc) x 6. (48) 

Round 9-10: Sc around. (48) 

Round 11: (Sc 6, inv dec) x 6. (42) 

Round 12: Sc around in the front loop only. (42) (This creates a slight ridge for the brim) Fasten off, weave in ends.

Assembly Instructions for Your Monsieur Purl

Now for the magical part where Monsieur Purl truly comes to life! Take your time, use pins, and don't be afraid to adjust until everything looks just right.

1. Embroider Face: Before attaching the muzzle, use black or dark grey embroidery floss/yarn to embroider whiskers on either side of where the muzzle will be. Use a "V" shape for the mouth.
2. Attach Muzzle: Pin the muzzle to the head, centered just below the eyes. Sew securely in place using the long tail, ensuring it's lightly stuffed for a subtle protrusion.
3. Embroider Nose: Using pink yarn, stitch a small triangular or oval nose on top of the muzzle, positioning it just above the mouth.
4. Attach Ears: Pin the ears to the top of the head, slightly to the sides and forward, ensuring they stand upright and are symmetrical. Sew securely.
5. Attach Head to Body: Using the tail from the head, center the head on top of the body. Pin securely all around the neck join. Stitch firmly in place using a whip stitch or mattress stitch, making sure the head is stable.
6. Attach Arms: Pin the arms to the sides of the body, just below the neck join, with the flat opening facing the body. Sew firmly in place.
7. Attach Legs: Pin the legs to the bottom of the body, ensuring they are evenly spaced and Monsieur Purl can stand. Sew securely.
8. Attach Tail: Pin the tail to the back of the body, centered, at roughly Round 17 of the body. Sew securely.
9. Dress in Overalls: Gently pull the overalls onto Monsieur Purl.
10. Attach Overall Straps: Position the two overall straps coming over the shoulders to the front of the overalls, securing them with a few stitches. You can cross them in the back, or run them straight up.
11. Place Beret: Gently position the beret on Monsieur Purl's head, slightly angled for that dapper look. You can stitch it in place with a few small stitches to secure it, or leave it unattached for adjustability.

Tips & Tricks for Your Monsieur Purl

Crocheting is a journey of continuous learning, and I love sharing little nuggets of wisdom that make the process smoother and more enjoyable!

Troubleshooting Common Crochet Challenges

• Stuffing Showing Through? This usually means your stitches aren't tight enough for your yarn. Try going down a hook size, or practicing your tension. Don't overstuff!
• Wobbly Head? Ensure you're stuffing the neck area of the head and the top of the body very firmly before joining. Stitching securely all around the join, perhaps with a second pass, also helps.
• Uneven Limbs? Count your rounds meticulously! Even a single missed stitch can throw off the symmetry. Pinning before sewing is your best friend here.

Customization Corner

• Yarn Choices: Feel free to experiment with yarn! A super bulky chenille yarn would make a wonderfully squishy, oversized Monsieur Purl, just remember to adjust your hook size accordingly.
• Facial Expressions: You could try different eye placements for varying expressions, or even embroider sleepy eyelids for a calm look. A little blush with fabric chalk on the cheeks can add extra cuteness!
• Outfit Variations: Why not try different colored stripes for his shirt, or even a tiny crocheted scarf? The overalls could be in denim blue for a different vibe!

Gifting Your Handmade Masterpiece

• Personal Touch: Add a small embroidered initial or a tiny charm to his overalls for a truly personalized gift.
• Care Instructions: Always include a small tag with care instructions for handmade items (gentle hand wash, air dry) to ensure your recipient can cherish their gift for years.
• Presentation: Wrap him in a sweet fabric bag or a simple box tied with a yarn bow. A thoughtful presentation makes your gift even more special.

Frequently Asked Pattern & Finishing Questions for Monsieur Purl

I often get asked wonderful questions, and I've gathered a few common ones that might pop up as you're stitching Monsieur Purl!

Q: Can I use different yarn weights for this pattern? A: Absolutely, my dear! You can certainly use different yarn weights, but remember that your finished Monsieur Purl will be larger or smaller depending on your choice. Just be sure to adjust your hook size to match the yarn weight for a tight, amigurumi-appropriate fabric, and remember your yardage might change!

Q: My safety eyes feel a little loose; what should I do? A: Sometimes the backings can be a little tricky. Make sure you press them on very firmly until you hear a distinct click. For extra security, some crafters put a tiny dab of strong fabric glue on the post before attaching the backing, but do be careful not to get it on the eye itself!

Q: How do I make my color changes look neat for the stripes? A: For seamless stripes, when you make the last single crochet of the round before a color change, don't complete the very last yarn over. Instead, drop the old color, pick up the new color, and yarn over with the new color to finish the stitch. This pulls the new color through neatly.

A Final Word & Caring for Your Adorable Monsieur Purl

What a joy it has been to guide you through the creation of Monsieur Purl! Seeing these little characters come to life through your hands is the greatest reward. Remember, your continued engagement and support—whether it's sharing your finished makes, leaving kind comments, or exploring patterns in my Pattern Parlour—make it possible for me to keep these detailed patterns freely available for our wonderful crochet community. Happy stitching, my dear, and may your crochet hooks always be filled with inspiration!

Caring for Your Handmade Monsieur Purl

To keep Monsieur Purl looking dapper for years to come, a gentle hand wash with mild soap in cool water is best. Gently squeeze out excess water (don't wring!), reshape, and lay him flat on a clean towel to air dry. Avoid machine washing or drying, as it can distort his charming shape.