Merlin's Magical Meow: Your Free Wizard Cat Amigurumi Pattern

An Introduction from Patricia to Your Merlin's Magical Meow

Hello, my dearest yarn enthusiast! It's Patricia Poltera, and I am absolutely thrilled to share a pattern that's been sparkling in my imagination: Merlin's Magical Meow, an amigurumi wizard cat! There's something truly special about combining the cozy comfort of a cat with the whimsical wonder of a wizard, isn't there? Crafting those tiny pointed ears, the charmingly oversized hat, and that dapper little cloak brought such a smile to my face, and I just know you'll feel that same joy. I'm delighted to share this Merlin's Magical Meow pattern free of charge. Your enthusiasm and support, perhaps by visiting again for new patterns or sharing your finished creations, truly keep my hooks clicking and allow me to continue designing. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! Now, let’s conjure up some cuteness!

Materials You'll Need for Merlin's Magical Meow

Gathering your supplies is the first spell in bringing Merlin to life! For this particular project, the yarn you choose can really add to his magical charm.

Yarn:

• Worsted Weight Yarn (Aran/10-ply): This weight gives Merlin a lovely, huggable substance. I recommend a smooth cotton or a soft acrylic for good stitch definition, which is key for amigurumi.
  • Cream/Off-White (approx. 80-100g): For the head, body, arms, and outer ears.
  • Purple (approx. 50-70g): For the wizard hat and cloak.
  • Bright Yellow/Gold (approx. 20-30g): For the hatband, star, cloak trim, cloak tie, and arm cuffs.
  • Peach/Light Orange (small amount, approx. 5-10g): For the inner ears.
• Why these choices for Merlin? A smooth yarn ensures his facial features and the clean lines of his outfit really stand out. Cotton gives a lovely matte finish, while acrylic can offer a gentle sheen and is wonderfully soft.

Hooks & Notions:

• Absolute Essentials:
  • Crochet Hook: 3.5mm (E/4) or 3.75mm (F/5). Use a hook size that gives you tight stitches so the stuffing doesn’t show through. For worsted weight, I often lean towards a 3.5mm for amigurumi.
  • Polyester Fiberfill Stuffing: For giving Merlin his cuddly shape.
  • 9mm or 10mm Black Safety Eyes: Choose a size that looks proportionate to your finished head.
  • Black Embroidery Thread or Thin Black Yarn: For the nose, mouth, and whiskers.
  • Yarn Needle (Tapestry Needle): Essential for weaving in ends and assembling.
  • Stitch Markers: To keep track of your rounds – a true lifesaver!
  • Scissors.
• My 'Game Changer' Recommendations for this Project:
  • A Slightly Smaller Hook (e.g., 3.0mm) for the Hat Brim (optional): If you find your brim isn't lying as flat as you'd like, going down a hook size for just the brim can sometimes work wonders for stability.
  • Pins: For positioning pieces like ears, arms, and the cloak before sewing – crucial for getting Merlin's wizardly pose just right!
  • A Chopstick or Hemostat: For precise stuffing, especially in smaller parts like the arms.

Skills Required & Techniques Demystified for Merlin's Magical Meow

This pattern is best suited for those with some amigurumi experience, perhaps an Easy to Intermediate level. Don't fret if you're newer; I'll explain things clearly! The magic is in the making, after all.

Core Crochet Skills:

• Magic Ring (MR): The classic start for most amigurumi pieces, ensuring a tight, closed beginning. We'll use this for Merlin's head, body, and hat.
• Single Crochet (sc): The star stitch of amigurumi! Almost all of Merlin is made with this.
• Increase (inc): Working two single crochet stitches into the same stitch – how we make Merlin grow!
• Invisible Decrease (dec): Decreasing by working through the front loops only of two stitches – this keeps his fabric neat and tidy.
• Working in Continuous Rounds (Spiral): Typical for amigurumi to avoid a seam line.
• Working in Rows: We might use this for flatter pieces like the cloak, depending on the final design.
• Chain Stitch (ch): For starting rows or creating details like the cloak tie.
• Slip Stitch (sl st): Used for joining, finishing off, or sometimes for surface details.
• Changing Colors: We'll need this for his little yellow arm cuffs.

Specific Techniques for Merlin:

• Embroidery (for face and hat star): Simple straight stitches and satin stitches will bring his face and hat to life. Don't worry, I'll guide you. The key is small, neat stitches.
• Assembling Amigurumi Parts: Attaching the head, ears, arms, and clothing. The secret here is careful pinning and patient stitching. For Merlin, getting his hat to sit just so, and his cloak to drape naturally, will be our main assembly focus.
• Creating a Flat Circle (for hat brim): This involves specific placement of increases to keep the circle from ruffling or coning.

Crochet Abbreviations (US Terminology):

• approx. – approximately
• ch – chain
• dec – invisible decrease (sc2tog through front loops only)
• FLO - front loop only
• inc – increase (2 sc in next st)
• MR – magic ring
• Rnd(s) – round(s)
• Row(s) – row(s)
• sc – single crochet
• sl st – slip stitch
• st(s) – stitch(es)
• tog - together
• [...] – repeat instructions within brackets as directed
• (…) – number of stitches at the end of the round/row

A Note on Photos & Your Unique Merlin's Magical Meow

Remember, my dear, every handcrafted amigurumi has its own little spark of personality! Your tension, yarn choice, and even the way you stuff your Merlin will make him uniquely yours. The photos are a guide, but the true magic comes from your hands. Embrace any little quirks – they are part of his charm! For Merlin, perhaps his hat will have a jauntier tilt, or his whiskers a more curious twitch – that's the beauty of handmade.

Onwards, creative spirit, let's bring our Merlin's Magical Meow to life! The full pattern is next, waiting to be conjured by your hook.

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The Merlin's Magical Meow Amigurumi Pattern

Important Notes Before You Begin:

• Work in continuous (spiral) rounds unless otherwise stated. Use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch of each round.
• Stuff pieces firmly but carefully as you go, unless otherwise instructed. The head and body should be very firm to support the hat and cloak.
• Gauge is not critical for this pattern, but ensure your stitches are tight enough so that stuffing does not show through. Consistent tension is key. My finished Merlin is approx. 7 inches tall with the hat, using worsted weight yarn and a 3.5mm hook.

Head (Cream/Off-White Yarn)

Rnd 1: Start 6 sc in a MR. (6) Rnd 2: Inc in each st around. (12) Rnd 3: [Sc 1, inc] six times. (18) Rnd 4: [Sc 2, inc] six times. (24) Rnd 5: [Sc 3, inc] six times. (30) Rnd 6: [Sc 4, inc] six times. (36) Rnd 7: [Sc 5, inc] six times. (42) Rnd 8: [Sc 6, inc] six times. (48) Rnds 9-16 (8 rounds): Sc in each st around. (48) Rnd 17: [Sc 6, dec] six times. (42) Rnd 18: [Sc 5, dec] six times. (36) Rnd 19: [Sc 4, dec] six times. (30) Rnd 20: [Sc 3, dec] six times. (24) Begin stuffing the head firmly. Insert safety eyes between Rnds 13 and 14, about 7-8 stitches apart. Adjust placement to your liking before securing the backs. Rnd 21: [Sc 2, dec] six times. (18) Rnd 22: [Sc 1, dec] six times. (12) Finish stuffing the head. Rnd 23: Dec six times. (6) Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Weave the tail through the front loops of the remaining 6 stitches and pull tight to close the hole. Weave in the end.

Inner Ears (Make 2, Peach/Light Orange Yarn)

Rnd 1: Start 4 sc in a MR. (4) Rnd 2: [Sc 1, inc] two times. (6) Rnd 3: [Sc 2, inc] two times. (8) Rnd 4: [Sc 3, inc] two times. (10) Fasten off, leaving a short tail for weaving in. Do not stuff.

Outer Ears (Make 2, Cream/Off-White Yarn)

Rnd 1: Start 4 sc in a MR. (4) Rnd 2: [Sc 1, inc] two times. (6) Rnd 3: [Sc 2, inc] two times. (8) Rnd 4: [Sc 3, inc] two times. (10) Rnd 5: Sc in each st around. (10) Do not fasten off the second outer ear. For each ear, place one inner ear piece against one outer ear piece, wrong sides together. For the first ear (where you fastened off), reattach cream yarn. Next Step (Joining): With the pieces aligned, sc through both layers around the edge to join them. Work 10 sc around. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing to the head. Do not stuff. Gently shape them into a slight curve.

Body (Cream/Off-White Yarn)

Rnd 1: Start 6 sc in a MR. (6) Rnd 2: Inc in each st around. (12) Rnd 3: [Sc 1, inc] six times. (18) Rnd 4: [Sc 2, inc] six times. (24) Rnd 5: [Sc 3, inc] six times. (30) Rnd 6: [Sc 4, inc] six times. (36) Rnds 7-12 (6 rounds): Sc in each st around. (36) Rnd 13: [Sc 4, dec] six times. (30) Rnds 14-15 (2 rounds): Sc in each st around. (30) Rnd 16: [Sc 3, dec] six times. (24) Rnds 17-18 (2 rounds): Sc in each st around. (24) Begin stuffing the body firmly. Rnd 19: [Sc 2, dec] six times. (18) Rnd 20: Sc in each st around. (18) Fasten off, leaving a very long tail for sewing to the head. Finish stuffing.

Legs (Make 2, Cream/Off-White Yarn)

Rnd 1: Start 6 sc in a MR. (6) Rnd 2: Inc in each st around. (12) Rnds 3-5 (3 rounds): Sc in each st around. (12) Rnd 6: [Sc 2, dec] three times. (9) Stuff lightly. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing to the body.

Arms (Make 2, start with Yellow/Gold Yarn)

With Yellow/Gold yarn: Rnd 1: Start 5 sc in a MR. (5) Rnd 2: Inc in each st around. (10) Rnd 3: Sc in each st around in FLO. (10) This creates a nice defined edge for the cuff. Change to Cream/Off-White yarn: Rnd 4: Sc in each st around in BLO of Rnd 2 (working into the unworked loops behind Rnd 3). (10) Rnds 5-10 (6 rounds): Sc in each st around. (10) Stuff the hand part (yellow) lightly. Do not stuff the rest of the arm too much, or leave it unstuffed if you prefer a more poseable arm under the cloak. Rnd 11: Fold the top of the arm flat and sc 5 across through both layers to close. (5) Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing to the body.

#### Wizard Hat (Start with Purple Yarn)

• Brim: Rnd 1: Start 6 sc in a MR. (6) Rnd 2: Inc in each st around. (12) Rnd 3: [Sc 1, inc] six times. (18) Rnd 4: [Sc 2, inc] six times. (24) Rnd 5: [Sc 3, inc] six times. (30) Rnd 6: [Sc 4, inc] six times. (36) Rnd 7: [Sc 5, inc] six times. (42) Rnd 8: [Sc 6, inc] six times. (48) Rnd 9: [Sc 7, inc] six times. (54) Rnd 10: [Sc 8, inc] six times. (60) Optional: For a flatter brim, you could do one more round of sc in each stitch, or even a round of slip stitches if desired. Sl st to the first sc to join. Do not fasten off.

• Cone of the Hat (Continuing from Brim): Now we will work upwards to form the cone. The next round is crucial for turning upwards. Rnd 11: Ch 1, working in BLO for this round only, sc in each of the 60 sts around. Sl st to first sc to join. (60) (From now on, work in continuous rounds unless stated, you can switch back to spiral working here or continue joining rounds. For a hat cone, joining rounds can sometimes look neater). If continuing in spiral, place marker. If joining, ch 1 and turn if you prefer, or just ch 1 and continue. For simplicity here, pattern assumes continuous rounds from Rnd 12: Rnd 12: Sc in each st around. (60) Rnd 13: [Sc 8, dec] six times. (54) Rnd 14: Sc in each st around. (54) Rnd 15: [Sc 7, dec] six times. (48) Rnd 16: Sc in each st around. (48) Rnd 17: [Sc 6, dec] six times. (42) Rnd 18: Sc in each st around. (42) Rnd 19: [Sc 5, dec] six times. (36) Rnd 20: Sc in each st around. (36) Rnd 21: [Sc 4, dec] six times. (30) Rnd 22: Sc in each st around. (30) Rnd 23: [Sc 3, dec] six times. (24) Rnd 24: Sc in each st around. (24) Rnd 25: [Sc 2, dec] six times. (18) Rnd 26: Sc in each st around. (18) Rnd 27: [Sc 1, dec] six times. (12) Rnd 28: Dec six times. (6) Fasten off, leaving a tail. Weave through remaining stitches and pull to close. Weave in end.

• Hatband (Yellow/Gold Yarn): Ch 50 (or enough to fit snugly around the base of the hat cone, where it meets the brim). Row 1: Starting in 2nd ch from hook, sc in each ch across. (49) Fasten off, leaving long tails for sewing. Sew the band around the base of the cone.

• Star for Hat (Yellow/Gold Yarn - Embroidery): Using yellow/gold yarn or embroidery floss, embroider a small five-pointed star onto the front of the hat, above the hatband. You can draw a small guide with a removable fabric marker if needed. Simple straight stitches forming a star shape will work perfectly.

Wizard Cloak (Purple Yarn)

This cloak is worked flat in rows, then joined slightly at the neck. It's designed to be simple and effective. Ch 37. Row 1: Starting in 2nd ch from hook, sc 36 across. Ch 1, turn. (36) Row 2: [Sc 5, inc] six times. Ch 1, turn. (42) Row 3: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (42) Row 4: [Sc 6, inc] six times. Ch 1, turn. (48) Row 5: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (48) Row 6: [Sc 7, inc] six times. Ch 1, turn. (54) Rows 7-15 (9 rows): Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (54) At the end of Row 15, do not ch 1. Fasten off Purple.

• Cloak Edging & Collar (Yellow/Gold Yarn): Join Yellow/Gold yarn at one top corner of the cloak (the end of Row 15, or the beginning of Row 1 if you prefer to work around in a specific direction). We will now sc evenly around the entire outer edge of the cloak (the two short sides and the long bottom edge). Edging Rnd 1: Ch 1. Work sc stitches evenly down the first side, work 3 sc in the corner stitch, sc evenly across the bottom edge (the initial chain edge), work 3 sc in the next corner stitch, and sc evenly up the second side. Now, to create a slight collar effect along the top edge (Row 15): Still with yellow, sc across the stitches of Row 15. For a more pronounced collar, you could work (sc 1, ch 1) in each stitch across this top edge, or even add a second row of sc just along this top edge. For simplicity, we'll do one row of sc. Sl st to the first sc of the edging. Fasten off, weave in ends.

• Cloak Tie (Yellow/Gold Yarn): Ch 60-70 (long enough to tie a small bow). Fasten off. Weave this chain through the stitches at the neckline of the cloak (around the top of the Yellow/Gold edging) and tie in a bow at the front.

Assembly Instructions for Your Merlin's Magical Meow

Take a deep breath, my dear – this is where your magical companion truly comes together! Pin pieces in place before sewing to ensure you’re happy with the positioning.

1. Facial Features:

   • Eyes: Already placed if you used safety eyes.
   • Nose/Mouth: Using black embroidery thread, embroider a small 'Y' shape for the nose and mouth. Position it centered below and between the eyes. I find it helpful to make a small vertical stitch for the nose, then two angled stitches downwards from the base of the vertical stitch for the mouth.
   • Whiskers: Using black embroidery thread, add 2-3 whiskers on each cheek. Simple straight stitches radiating outwards. Keep them delicate.

2. Ears:

   • Sew the assembled ears (inner and outer pieces joined) to the top of the head. Position them so they will peek out nicely when the hat is on – generally on Rnds 5-10 from the center top of the head, about 8-10 stitches apart at their base. Angle them slightly upwards and forwards.

3. Body to Head:

   • Using the long tail from the body, sew the body securely to the base of the head. Ensure it's centered and very well attached, as it needs to support the head.

4. Legs:

   • Sew the legs to the bottom front of the body, positioning them so Merlin can sit stably. They should angle slightly forward. Attach them around Rnds 5-8 of the body.

5. Arms:

   • Sew the arms to the sides of the body, just below where the head is joined, around Rnds 18-19 of the body. Position them so they look natural, perhaps angled slightly forward as if ready to hold a tiny spellbook!

6. Hat:

   • Place the hat on Merlin's head, adjusting its tilt to your liking. You can tack it in place with a few stitches of purple yarn through the hat (just above the brim) and into the head if you want it to be permanently attached. This is usually a good idea to keep it from falling off. Ensure the embroidered star is at the front.

7. Cloak:

   • Drape the cloak around Merlin's shoulders. The yellow tie should be at the front. You can secure the cloak with a few hidden stitches at the shoulders if you wish, to keep it perfectly in place. Adjust the bow.

8. Final Touches: Weave in all remaining ends securely. Admire your magical creation!

Tips & Tricks for Your Merlin's Magical Meow

A few little enchantments to help your Merlin be his best self!

Troubleshooting Merlin's Magic:

• Wobbly Head? If Merlin's head seems a bit unstable, ensure you've stuffed the neck area of the body and the base of the head very firmly. You can also insert a small dowel or a few chenille stems (pipe cleaners, folded and twisted) into the neck area before sewing for extra support, though usually firm stuffing is enough for this size.
• Hat Not Sitting Right? Play with the stuffing in the top of the hat cone. A little bit of stuffing can help it hold its shape. Also, the placement of the ears can affect how the hat sits.
• Cloak Edges Curling? If the yellow edging on the cloak tries to curl, a very light steam block (hovering a steam iron near it, never touching, especially with acrylic!) can sometimes help it lie flat. Always test on a swatch first.

Customization Corner for Your Kitty Caster:

• Accessorize! Crochet a tiny scroll (a small rectangle rolled up and tied) or a miniature wand (a thin stick wrapped in yarn, or a chain-stitched piece stiffened) for him to hold.
• Color Magic: Why not a grey, black, or even a calico wizard cat? Or change his robe and hat colors to match a favorite magical house or theme!
• Embellishments: Add tiny seed beads or sequins to his hat or cloak for extra sparkle. Perhaps a little felt patch on his cloak.

Gifting Your Merlin's Magical Meow:

• Presentation: Wrap him in some tissue paper sprinkled with star confetti, or present him in a little box as if he's just arrived from a magical academy!
• Care Card: Include a small, handwritten card with care instructions (spot clean only, gentle handling) – a lovely personal touch.
• Story Starter: Maybe write a tiny "origin story" for your specific Merlin to go with the gift, sparking the recipient's imagination.

Frequently Asked Pattern & Finishing Questions for Merlin's Magical Meow

Let's address a few magical queries you might have!

• Q1: My hat brim is ruffling a bit. What can I do?
  • A: Sometimes, even with careful counting, brims can get a little wavy. You can try going down a hook size for the brim next time. For this one, you could try to crochet a round of slip stitches very tightly around the outermost edge. Another option is to lightly block it by pinning it flat and gently steaming (again, carefully with acrylics!).
• Q2: How do I make the embroidery for the star on the hat really neat?
  • A: Take your time, my dear! Use a good quality embroidery floss or split your yarn so it's thinner. Sketch the star lightly with a pencil or removable marker first. Use short, even straight stitches for each point of the star, working from the center outwards, then back to the center for the next point. Securing your threads well on the inside of the hat will also keep it looking tidy.
• Q3: Can I make the cloak longer or shorter?
  • A: Absolutely! To make it longer, simply add more rows of single crochet (like Rows 7-15) until it reaches your desired length before adding the yellow edging. To make it shorter, work fewer of these central rows. Just remember to adjust your yarn quantities accordingly!
• Q4: My safety eyes look a bit stark. Any tips?
  • A: For a softer look, you can embroider eyelids just above the safety eyes using the main head color yarn. A simple arc shape can make a big difference. Alternatively, you could use felt circles behind the safety eyes (a white or contrasting color) before attaching the washer – this gives a nice, defined look too.

A Final Word & Caring for Your Adorable Merlin's Magical Meow

And there you have it, your very own Merlin's Magical Meow, crocheted with your own two hands! I truly hope you enjoyed this journey from a simple ball of yarn to an enchanting, spellbinding friend. Seeing your Merlin's Magical Meow come to life is the greatest reward for me as a designer. Your engagement, your shares, and your love for the craft are what make these free detailed patterns possible. Keep those hooks happy, and may your days be filled with creativity and joy. Happy stitching, my dear friend!

For care, Merlin prefers gentle spot cleaning with a damp cloth if he gets into any wizardly mishaps. He's more of a display magician than a rough-and-tumble apprentice!