Crochet Vlog Episode 6: Mandala Stools & Crochet Cat Toys

Welcome back to Episode 6 of The Secret Yarnery Vlog! It’s another day here with the sheep grazing on my back field, kids off to school, and my husband heading to work. Today, I’m feeling extra productive because I’ve got a bunch of exciting finished crochet projects to share before I run off to deliver them!

Here’s a quick peek into what’s been happening around here—crochet cat toys, mandala stools, and even some yarny adventures to Uganda. Let’s get right into it.

Check out the full video here:

Crochet Cat Toys for All

Let’s start with the cutest project from this week—crochet cat toys. My kids had a blast with these quirky little toys, which double as helicopter spinners. It’s always fun when a project can serve multiple purposes, right?

What the Cat Toys Look Like

I experimented with wooden spoons as the base, drilling two holes in them to act like buttons, and then crocheting around. These toys have little “springy” bits attached and are perfect playthings for both kids and cats. And, yes, I momentarily thought about adding eyes to them, but decided to simmer down after realizing they’re already cute and functional as they are. Minimalist wins yet again.

I also whipped up some mini crochet balls—some of which took around 45 minutes to make. They’re solid, durable, and make for fierce kitty fun. But I’m leaning towards faster options for toy-making since time is precious. Making one ball for a cat toy for over an hour? Not me, not again!

Mandala Stools, and More

I also finished some beautiful Mandala Stools. I made six in total, though I’ve only completed the edge on four (I’ll still be taking them in for delivery). The colors turned out great, all using the same yarn but switching up the placements for a gorgeous variation between each stool. It’s a simple pattern, but it brings the colors to life.

Also hitting the delivery pile today are DIY slipper kits. These two-hour slipper kits include everything a crochet beginner might need: yarn, a hook, and instructions on how to hold the yarn and hooks. I’m even walking through the basic stitches step by step in the pattern. Who doesn’t love quick slippers?

Of course, I’m also packaging up my first-ever yarn delivery to Uganda. No small feat, but I’ve got it all wrapped up and ready to go (even if it feels weird not to seal it completely for customs).

My Design Process

For the next set of toys, I streamlined the design and reduced the complexity. Instead of the intricate accordion-style toys I tried earlier, I switched to simpler three-round crochet circles, single crocheted together, with little bits like tassels or chains extending out. Plus, they bounce! They were kid-tested (and spoiler: kid approved).

I’ve got four of these cute toys ready to go today, and I’m excited to see how they turn out with the kitties they’re intended for. If you’re thinking of creating your own crochet cat toys, remember that sometimes simplicity rules the day!

Mandala Stool Project

I’m equally thrilled about this one! I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—mandalas make everything better. I finished six mandala covers for my stools. These stools have a larger base, and the mandalas worked out beautifully on them. The colors are bright, vibrant, and, honestly, to die for.

The Design and Colors

I used alternating yarn colors—starting with one in the center and building the pattern up. Even though the colors are different, all the covers follow the same pattern, giving each stool a unique look while maintaining a cohesive vibe. And let me tell you—those bursts of colors are bringing so much joy into my space.

I haven’t finished the borders on two of the mandalas yet, but that’s coming up soon. Still, I’ve got four of them heading out for delivery today!

If you love playing with mandala designs as much as I do, check out the Christmas Mandala Crochet Placemat. It’s one of my favorites, and you’ll get tons of ideas to start on your crochet journey.

Slipper Kits and Yarn Deliveries

Also on the agenda today are slipper kits! These little kits include everything you need to whip up a pair of cozy slippers—yarn, a hook, and a pattern. If you know someone who’s just starting out, this kit breaks down all the basics, from holding the hook to making your stitches. I’ve got six kits going out the door this afternoon, bundled and sealed up for my customers.

Yarn Delivery to Uganda

Another exciting part of my day is my first yarn delivery to Uganda. It’s all packed and ready, though I can’t seal it just yet. Border control’s got to inspect everything, so I’ll leave it open. But it feels good sending a little yarn joy across the border. I’ll keep you updated on how that turns out!

Upcoming Crochet Plans

Now that I’ve wrapped up some deliveries, I’m debating what’s next with my crochet ladies. I was thinking of switching them over to making granny square triangles. Changing up the design from the usual squares means more versatility, especially if the squares seem too loose. Plus, granny triangles make excellent bunting decorations. I even considered adding little bauble stitches at the bottom—though not pom-poms, maybe a popcorn stitch for a bit of fun.

Speaking of more fun… I still haven’t made lanyards for the ID cards I wanted to, but when you’re up till midnight making cat toys, priorities can shift, right?

Tim Tam Challenge at Crochet Class

Let’s talk about Monday’s crochet class humor. One of my lovely ladies just got back from Australia and brought Tim Tams! Ever tried them? They’re Australian biscuits filled with icing, and there’s this bizarre (but fun) “Tim Tam” challenge where you bite off opposite corners of the biscuit and use it like a straw to drink your hot chocolate or tea. We had a go at it during class, and, let’s just say, it was hilarious and delicious.

These moments make crochet classes even more enjoyable. Who knew crochet classes would lead to such chocolatey adventures?

Wrapping it Up

That’s all for this week’s update! From crocheting cat toys to experimenting with granny triangles, there’s always something fun going on around here. And I can’t wait to share more adventures with you—especially when I start devouring Shark Tank on my new Galaxy Tab while working on more crochet projects.

Thanks for tuning in, and if you have any questions or you’d love to know more about life here in Kenya, ask away in the comments below. Also, I’d love to hear what’s on your hook right now!

Don’t forget to check out my mandala creations here for even more inspiration on your next project. Until next time, stay hooked!