How to crochet a pig for beginners

Written by: Jeff Tse

August 7, 2024

Time to read 5 min

Table of content

Introduction Step by Step: How to crochet a pig Step 1: Crochet the Head Step 2: Crochet the Body Step 3: Crochet the Legs (Make 4) Step 4: Crochet the Ears (Make 2) Step 5: Crochet the Tail Step 6: Assemble the Pig Step 7: Add Features Selecting the Perfect Crochet Pig Supplies Basic Classification of Crochet Pig Selection

Introduction

Crocheting a pig is a delightful project that allows you to create an adorable and cuddly toy. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, making a crochet pig can be a fun and rewarding experience. This charming project is perfect for gifts, decorations, or simply to add to your collection of handmade toys.

To get started, gather your materials, including medium-weight yarn in pink for the body, black for the eyes, and any other colors you wish to use for embellishments. You will also need a 4.5mm crochet hook, safety eyes, stuffing, and a tapestry needle for assembly.

The process begins with creating the pig's head, where you will use basic crochet stitches to form the snout and face. After completing the head, you will move on to the body, legs, and tail, each crafted separately before being sewn together.

Adding details like ears and nostrils will bring your pig to life. You can also customize your pig with unique features, such as a curly tail or fun accessories. With just a few hours of work, you’ll have a charming crochet pig that is sure to bring joy to anyone who sees it!

💡 Did you know

The history of crochet pigs is intertwined with the broader development of amigurumi and decorative crochet. Pigs became popular crochet subjects in the mid-20th century, coinciding with the rise of amigurumi techniques from Japan. Their appeal grew due to their cute appearance and the versatility of designs. In the 1970s and 1980s, crochet pig patterns for toys and home decor items became trendy. The internet age has since led to an explosion of creative pig patterns, from realistic designs to whimsical interpretations. Today, crochet pigs remain beloved projects for crafters of all skill levels, appearing in various forms from plush toys to appliques on clothing and accessories. Their popularity continues to grow in the crafting community, with new patterns and techniques constantly emerging.

Step by Step: How to crochet a pig

Creating a crochet pig can be a delightful project, whether for yourself or as a gift. By learning how to crochet a pig with our step-by-step instructions, you will be able to create a charming crochet pig that is not only fun to make, but also pleasing to the eye. In addition, the crocheting skills are all connected, after learning how to crochet a pig, you can also refer to our previously published articles and try to crochet a tiger, chicken, snake, cow and so on.

Step 1: Crochet the Head

Start with a Magic Ring:

Work 6 single crochets (sc) into the magic ring. Pull tight to close.

Increase Rounds:

Round 2: 2 sc in each stitch around (12 stitches).
Round 3: 1 sc, 2 sc in next stitch; repeat around (18 stitches).
Round 4: 2 sc, 2 sc in next stitch; repeat around (24 stitches).

Straight Rounds:

Rounds 5-10: Work 1 sc in each stitch around (24 stitches).

Add Safety Eyes:

Insert safety eyes above the pig’s muzzle between rounds 8 and 9.

Decrease Rounds:

Round 11: 2 sc, sc2tog; repeat around (18 stitches).
Round 12: 1 sc, sc2tog; repeat around (12 stitches).
Round 13: Sc2tog around (6 stitches).

Stuff the Head:

Fill the head with polyester fiberfill and close the opening.

Step 2: Crochet the Body

Start with a Magic Ring:

Work 6 sc into a magic ring.

Increase Rounds:

Round 2: 2 sc in each stitch around (12 stitches).
Round 3: 1 sc, 2 sc in next stitch; repeat around (18 stitches).
Round 4: 2 sc, 2 sc in next stitch; repeat around (24 stitches).
Rounds 5-10: Work 1 sc in each stitch around (24 stitches).

Decrease Rounds:

Round 11: 1 sc, sc2tog; repeat around (18 stitches).
Round 12: Sc2tog around (12 stitches).

Stuff the Body:

Stuff the body with fiberfill and close the opening.

Step 3: Crochet the Legs (Make 4)

Start with a Magic Ring: Work 6 sc into a magic ring.

Increase Rounds:

Round 2: 2 sc in each stitch around (12 stitches).
Rounds 3-6: Work 1 sc in each stitch around (12 stitches).

Stuff the Legs: Lightly stuff each leg and close the opening.

Step 4: Crochet the Ears (Make 2)

Start with a Magic Ring:

Work 5 sc into a magic ring.

Increase Rounds:

Round 2: 2 sc in each stitch around (10 stitches).
Rounds 3-5: Work 1 sc in each stitch around (10 stitches).

Shape the Ears:

Fold the ears slightly and sew them to the head.

Step 5: Crochet the Tail

Chain 15: Make a chain of 15 stitches.
Single Crochet: Work 1 sc into the 2nd stitch from the hook and into the remaining 13 stitches.
Finish: Slip stitch and cut off a long end.

Step 6: Assemble the Pig

Attach the Head: Sew the head securely to the top of the body.
Attach the Legs: Sew the legs to the bottom of the body, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
Attach the Tail: Sew the tail to the back of the body.

Step 7: Add Features

Embroider Details: Use black yarn to embroider the nostrils and mouth.
Final Touches: Weave in any loose ends and ensure everything is securely attached.

Selecting the Perfect Crochet Pig Supplies

Yarn: Choose a soft yarn in pink or another pig-like color. Medium-weight yarn (worsted weight) is commonly used, but check your pattern for specific weight recommendations.
Crochet Hook: Use a hook that matches your yarn weight, typically a size G (4.0mm) or H (5.0mm) hook.
Safety Eyes: 7mm or 8mm safety eyes to give your pig an adorable expression.
Stuffing: Polyester fiberfill is ideal for giving your pig shape and making it cuddly.
Tapestry Needle: A needle with a large eye for weaving in ends and sewing the pieces together.
Scissors: Sharp scissors for cutting yarn and trimming loose ends.
Black Embroidery Thread or Yarn: For embroidering the pig’s eyes and nostrils.
Stitch Markers (Optional): Helpful for marking the beginning of a round or specific stitch patterns.
Crochet Pattern: Choose a crochet pig pattern that suits your skill level and desired design. Patterns can be found online or in crochet books.