Lucky Piglets for New Year's Eve
A Charming Symbol of Luck and Success
With Crochet Pattern
Crocheted Lucky Piglet
Lucky Piglets for New Year’s Eve: Tradition and DIY Idea
Learn about the meaning of lucky piglets as a New Year’s tradition and discover creative ideas like crocheted piglets to spread joy and luck!
New Year’s Eve is a time for wishes and traditions. One of the most endearing symbols of the turn of the year is the lucky pig. Whether as a marzipan figure, a decorative item, or a small gift, the lucky pig is a classic that cannot be missed. But why pigs? What is the story behind this adorable tradition?
The History of Lucky Pigs
Pigs have been considered symbols of good luck for centuries. In agriculture, they were a sign of wealth because owning pigs meant having food and prosperity. In Germanic mythology, pigs were associated with fertility and strength. These positive attributes eventually evolved into the modern lucky pig, which has become a staple of New Year’s traditions.
Why Give Lucky Pigs on New Year’s Eve?
- Symbol of Wealth and Prosperity: Pigs were traditionally seen as signs of abundance and financial security.
- Wishing Luck for the New Year: Giving a lucky pig means wishing the recipient success, happiness, and good fortune.
- A Creative Gesture: Handmade lucky pigs, whether crafted, crocheted, or baked, show extra care and affection.
Lucky Pigs in Different Forms
- Marzipan Pigs: The classic! Sweet and delicious, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
- Ceramic or Wooden Figures: Charming decorations or lucky charms for the home.
- Crocheted Lucky Pigs: A unique DIY project that will warm hearts.
- Baked Piglets: Whether made of bread or cookies, edible lucky pigs delight young and old alike.
The Custom Around the World
Other countries also have traditions symbolizing luck. In Spain, people eat 12 grapes at midnight; in Greece, a special New Year’s cake brings luck; and in the USA, roasted pork is served – pigs are also seen as symbols of progress and success.
DIY: Crochet Your Own Lucky Pig
If you want to start the New Year creatively, crochet your own lucky pig. It’s not only an original gift but also a wonderful project for anyone who loves handmade gifts. At the end of this article, you’ll find an easy crochet pattern to create an adorable lucky piglet!
Conclusion: Lucky Pigs – A Heartwarming Symbol for New Year’s Eve
The lucky pig is more than just a cute tradition. It represents hope, joy, and success in the coming year. Whether bought, baked, or crocheted, it brings positive energy to any New Year’s celebration. Follow me for more creative ideas and DIY tutorials for the perfect New Year’s celebration!
Crochet Pattern for Lucky Piglet
The piglet is crocheted in one piece, from head to toe.
Head and Body
- Rnd 1: 6 sc into a magic ring (6)
- Rnd 2: Inc in each st (12)
- Rnd 3: Inc every 2nd st (18)
- Rnd 4-5: 18 sc (18)
- Rnd 6: Inc every 3rd st (24)
- Rnd 7: Inc every 4th st (30)
Place safety eyes between Rnd 6 and 7 with 4 sts apart.
- Rnd 8-9: 30 sc (30)
- Rnd 10: Dec every 4th and 5th st (24)
- Rnd 11: Dec every 3rd and 4th st (18)
Stuff the head with fiberfill.
- Rnd 12: Dec every 2nd and 3rd st (12)
- Rnd 13: Dec every 1st and 2nd st (6)
Stuff with more fiberfill.
- Rnd 14: Inc in each st (12)
- Rnd 15: Inc every 2nd st (18)
- Rnd 16: Inc every 3rd st (24)
- Rnd 17-24: 24 sc (24)
Legs
Divide the body into 2 rounds and crochet 12 sc for each leg.
- Rnd 25: 12 sc (12)
- Rnd 26: Dec every 2nd and 3rd st (8)
- Rnd 27-31: 8 sc (8)
- Rnd 32: Inc every 2nd st (12)
Stuff with fiberfill.
- Rnd 33: 12 sc (12)
- Rnd 34: Dec every 1st and 2nd st (6)
Finish stuffing and close the small opening. Fasten off and weave in the ends.
2nd Leg: Attach yarn and crochet 12 sc in one round, then continue as for the 1st leg starting from Rnd 25.
Arms (Make 2)
- Rnd 1: 6 sc into a magic ring (6)
- Rnd 2: Inc in each st (12)
- Rnd 3-4: 12 sc (12)
- Rnd 5: Dec every 2nd and 3rd st (8)
- Rnd 6-12: 8 sc (8)
Lightly stuff the hands, but do not stuff the arms.
Fold the arms flat and crochet together with 4 sc. Attach the arms to the sides of the neck.
Snout
- Rnd 1: 6 sc into a magic ring (6)
- Rnd 2: Inc in each st (12)
- Rnd 3: Work in BLO: Inc in the 1st and 2nd st, 4 sc, inc in the 7th and 8th st, 4 sc. Finish with a sl st (16).
Fasten off and leave a long tail for sewing. Attach the snout to the center of the face, lightly stuffing it as you sew. Position the eyes close to the snout.
Ears (Make 2)
- Rnd 1: 4 sc into a magic ring (4)
- Rnd 2: Inc every 2nd st (6)
- Rnd 3: Inc every 3rd st (8)
- Rnd 4: Inc every 4th st (10)
- Rnd 5: Inc every 5th st (12)
Fold in half and crochet together with sc. Fasten off and attach to the head.
Curly Tail
Chain 5. Starting in the 2nd ch from the hook, work 2 sc in each chain. Fasten off and sew to the center of the pig’s back.
Embellishments
- Embroider a smiling mouth and nostrils with black thread.
- Add a cloverleaf to the chest:
- Rnd 1: Chain 4 and join with a sl st to form a ring.
- Rnd 2: Ch 3, work 3 dc cluster, sl st, ch 3, sl st – repeat 3 more times for 4 leaves. Chain 7 for the stem, then sl st back along the chain.
Attach the cloverleaf to the chest as a final touch