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Want to learn the basics of hand embroidery with an easy online workshop – totally free?

Sign up for Embroidery 101 here. You’ll learn how to get started, the tools and supplies you’ll need, the four most basic stitches, how to transfer your pattern and how to display your work.

If you already know the basics – sign up for Embroidery 201. It’s also free! You’ll learn how to stitch on specialty fabrics like felt and stretchy T-shirts. Plus you’ll learn lots and lots and LOTS more stitches – all my favorites!

Here’s a free cat embroidery pattern for you to play with!

My daughter has been drawing cat faces all over the place.

It’s her new favorite doodle.

She drew one recently in chalk on a slate stone in our yard and I loved the effect – so that’s what I was going for with this simple line drawing.

The image is just under 6 inches square. It would be cute on a tote bag or T-shirt – or a towel. It also fits perfectly into a 7″ hoop.

This is a great pattern for beginners. You only need one stitch and there’s nothing too fussy or detailed about it.

I stitched it in a pale (chalky) color on a dark background and with a slightly thicker thread than I usually use.

Here’s how to do it. . .

Download the pattern here.

Transfer the pattern to your fabric. I always use Sulky Sticky Fabri-solvy to transfer all my patterns – it’s especially awesome for dark fabrics like this. You can see it in action here.

(If you use an iron-on transfer method, remember that you’ll need to reverse that pattern image.)

Stitch your design. I used backstitch for all the stitching, and a full 6 strands of DMC #519 on a dark grey fabric.

Soak out the stabilizer and iron it dry.

Finish it up however you like! You can use this free cat embroidery pattern on a T-shirt, tote bag, pillow cover, and more.

Happy stitching!