Notions needed: darning needle for weaving in ends, 2 stitch markers, optionally 2 slide buckles or 2-4 buttons.

You will need to know the following skills: CO/BO, knit, purl, SSSK and k3tog decreases, picking up stitches. You will also need to choose a closure method which will include one of the following:

• i-cord
• knitted or crocheted buttonholes and sewing on buttons
• Installing a slide buckle and creating a strap-wrap.

I do not provide directions for either i-cord or buttonholes. There are myriad tutorials online (I provided links to one buttonhole tutorial, though).

Colorwork is OPTIONAL.

This pattern includes a written pattern, for those not doing colorwork. For those who want to do colorwork, I’ve included a complete chart of the plain apron (so you can design your own), and 2 charts of the shield (one with an M, and one without, so you can substitute a different letter).

Designed for a kitty named Marty who has Cerebellar Hypoplasia (CH) and must be spoon fed, and it also happens to fit American Girl dolls

If you like this pattern, please consider making a charitable donation. Here are some ideas:

• Your local animal shelter. (Use the pulldown at left to filter for your state).

• Your local Humane Society. (Use the pulldown at left to filter for your state).

• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

The above links are to the charity page in Charity Navigator which allows you to donate directly, either anonymously or not. Here’s info about Charity Navigator.

To substitute a different letter in the Superman shield, I’ve provided a blank shield, and you can chart your own letter. Here’s a good starting point/letter model, but it will probably require some tweaks to make it look right.