Meet The Author of Knit Mini Amigurumi Cats!
Knitting and cats are a classic pairing - we all know a cat-loving knitter, and now you can treat them to the book of their dreams with Knit Mini Amigurumi Cats! by Anna Hrachovec!
This adorable collection features 20 patterns for quirky amigurumi kitties; with clear instructions and step-by-step projects, you can bring a whole world of whimsical cats and their accessories to life.
To celebrate the release of this one-of-a-kind book, we sat down with author Anna Hrachovec to learn all about how where she finds inspiration, how she designed each fun project and her top tip for beginner knitters!
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m a designer, artist, and animator who loves to knit small and somewhat odd creatures. I learned to knit many years ago when I was an exchange student in Japan, and since then I’ve created a world of knitted toys that I call Mochimochi Land. I live in Chicago with my husband, two kids, and two cats.
Tell us a bit about Knit Mini Amigurumi Cats!
Knit Mini Amigurumi Cats! is filled with 20 patterns for tiny, adorable cats to knit. Some are in classic poses, some come with containers, some with jobs, and others are cat/food hybrids. These are intermediate level patterns, so there’s lots to explore technique-wise in the book. And because the projects use so little yarn, they’re ideal for little bits of leftover yarn that you might already have in your stash.
Where did you draw inspiration from when creating the adorable projects in the book?
I have two cats of my own, so they’re a constant source of inspiration. Anyone who’s lived with cats knows that they’re full of surprises with the odd things they get up to and the funny positions they put their bodies in.
What was the creative design process of developing the book like?
The book started with a series of cats in containers—I love the way cats can take the shape of whatever they’re in, so I designed the container first, then made a cat that’s basically the same shape. Playing with unusual shaping is a big interest of mine in knitting—and I think that makes the projects fun, full of variety, and also an occasional enjoyable challenge for my fellow knitters.
What’s your favourite project in the book, and why?
They’re all my favorites, of course! But one that I’m particularly pleased with is the Scratching Post Royalty—a crown-wearing cat sitting atop a classic cat tree (the kind made of wood and carpet). I loved the idea of knitting a miniature cat tree, and it was a fun challenge to figure out the design. And of course any of the cats in the book can play in it!
What can knitters get from your book that they can’t find anywhere else?
I think the sheer variety of forms and ideas that I’m incorporating within the limited theme of knitted cats is unique. My goal is to create designs that people will find a strong desire to tackle, even if that means learning new techniques or dealing with some small fiddly bits. Plus, these are mini cats—once you’ve mastered a design, you can knit literally knit dozens of cats out of one skein of yarn!
What is the most challenging part of being a knitter?
The challenge is also a feature—you’re using both of your hands, and you probably need your eyes on it, and there’s no speeding it up beyond a certain point, so it’s a pastime that requires time and focus.
What makes up for the challenges?
I think spending time working with your hands, using time and focus to create something beautiful or cute, is one of the most healthy things we can do. It’s good for your brain and spirit!
What advice would you give to crafters only just beginning their knitting journey?
My practical advice would be to work with yarn that is springy and forgiving, to work with wood or bamboo needles that aren’t too long for your project, and to remember to breathe as you’re working the stitches. When you have a lot of tension in your body, that translates to tension in your knitting and that only makes it harder to do!
If you could invite anybody alive or dead to your ideal knitting retreat, who would it be and why?
I love this question and my answer would have to be a group of fascinating beginners. Artists and writers who have never knitted before but who are unafraid of trying something new, and who would inevitably bring insights into the craft that I wouldn’t have thought of. The beginner’s mind is one of my favorite modes to be in and to witness.
In one word, how would you describe Knit Mini Amigurumi Cats!?
One word? CUTE!
Get your paws on Knit Mini Amigurumi Cats! today at the link here!
About the Author
Anna Hrachovec
Anna Hrachovec has been knitting toys since 2007, and now she is a renowned designer, author, educator...