If you’re a cat parent, you know how much cats love lounging in cozy spots. Instead of buying an expensive pet bed, why not crochet your own hammock? In this tutorial, we’ll walk through the steps to create a crocheted cat hammock sling that fits neatly into a wooden or DIY stand.

This project is perfect for beginners because it uses only basic stitches, works up quickly with chunky yarn, and results in a stylish and comfortable space your cat will love. Plus, it’s customizable—you can choose colors that match your home décor.

🧶 Materials Needed

Before starting, gather your supplies:

Yarn

• Super bulky (#6) or t-shirt yarn – this makes the hammock strong and durable.
• Cotton yarn is ideal for strength and washability.
• Approx. 350–400 yards depending on size.
• Suggested colors: beige, gray, cream, or any shade that matches your furniture.

Hook

• Size 9 mm (M/N) crochet hook (adjust depending on yarn thickness).

Other Tools

• Yarn needle (for weaving ends).
• Scissors.
• Measuring tape.

For the Frame (optional but recommended):

• Wooden dowels or poles (about 1” thick).
• Wood planks for the base.
• Screws and screwdriver.
• Sandpaper (to smooth edges).

👉 If you don’t want to build a frame, you can also hang the hammock between two sturdy chairs or attach it to an existing pet stand.

✂️ Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch = chain
• sl st = slip stitch
• sc = single crochet
• hdc = half double crochet
• dc = double crochet
• st(s) = stitch(es)
• rep = repeat
• RS = right side

📏 Finished Size

• Approx. 20” x 18” hammock sling (suitable for most cats up to 15 lbs).
• You can easily adjust size by changing foundation chains or adding more rows.

🧵 Crochet Pattern – Hammock Sling

We’ll crochet a rectangular panel with reinforced edges for strength.

Step 1: Foundation

• Ch 46 (or any even number depending on desired width).
• This will make about 20” wide with super bulky yarn.

Step 2: Row 1

• Sc in 2nd ch from hook and across. (45 sts)
• Ch 1, turn.

Step 3: Rows 2–40

• Sc in each st across.
• Ch 1, turn.
• Continue until your piece measures about 18”.

👉 This creates a sturdy single crochet fabric, perfect for weight support.

Step 4: Reinforced Edging

To make sure the hammock doesn’t stretch out too much:

• After last row, ch 1 and rotate your work to crochet evenly around all four edges.
• Work sc stitches evenly along the sides, placing 1 sc in each row-end.
• At the corners, place 3 sc to keep edges from curling.
• Continue around, join with sl st to first sc.

Step 5: Hanging Loops

We need strong loops on each corner to attach the hammock to the frame.

• At any corner, ch 10 (or longer if needed).
• Sl st back into the same corner to form a loop.
• Reinforce by working sc stitches around the loop.
• Repeat for all four corners.

👉 These loops will slip over the wooden dowels to hold the hammock in place.

🪡 Assembly & Frame Setup

If you’re using a wooden frame like in the image:

1. Cut four wooden dowels or poles for the top supports (about 24” long each).
2. Create two side panels with angled supports and screw them into a base plank for stability.
3. Place the dowels across the top, creating a rectangular frame.
4. Slip the crocheted loops over the ends of the dowels.
5. Adjust tension so the hammock sags just enough for comfort but not too low.

👉 If you don’t want to build a frame, try these alternatives:

• Tie loops to chair legs.
• Use hooks on walls to suspend the hammock.
• Attach to an existing pet furniture frame.

🌟 Tips for Beginners

• Use strong yarn: Avoid stretchy acrylic for the base. Cotton or t-shirt yarn is best.
• Check size: Before assembly, measure your cat while curled up. Adjust foundation chains and rows accordingly.
• Washability: Choose machine-washable yarn since cats shed and accidents happen.
• Tight tension: Work stitches tightly to make fabric dense and sturdy.

🐱 Styling & Variations

• Color blocking: Use two yarn colors for stripes.
• Chunky braid border: Add a decorative edge using slip stitches with a contrasting color.
• Double layer: Crochet two panels and sew together for extra thickness.
• Seasonal themes: Make different hammocks for holidays or match them with your home décor.

🧼 Care Instructions

• Machine wash on gentle cycle with mild detergent.
• Lay flat to dry to maintain shape.
• Check loops regularly for wear and re-crochet if needed.

🎉 Conclusion

This beginner-friendly crochet cat hammock is both practical and fun to make. With just basic stitches, you can create a stylish and comfortable bed that your furry friend will love. Whether you use a wooden frame or improvise with furniture at home, your cat will enjoy hours of lounging in their new handmade spot.

Not only is this project rewarding, but it also makes a wonderful gift for fellow cat lovers. Try experimenting with colors, textures, and finishes—you’ll soon find yourself making more than one!