Intro: The year of 2026 celebrates the Horse in the Chinese zodiac! The start of Lunar New Year corresponds with the lunisolar calendar, putting it at February 17th - however, countries who celebrate often begin weeks before the official date. It is believed that the year of the Horse will bring dynamic, passionate, and fast-moving energy. Bold transformation and innovation are invited. In honor of celebrating, let's make this an action-driven year!

NOTES:
Please do not copy/redistribute any part of this pattern as your own. This includes reposting/translating without permission. Feel free to sell your finished products in small quantities as long as you give credit to help support my work. Tag your creations with @curiouspapaya so I can feature you!

The whole pattern is worked in a continuous spiral. The snout is the only part that is worked in an oval spiral.

I use the "yarn under, yarn over" method of crocheting when using chunky chenille yarn. This creates a pretty, slanted X-shaped stitch. Yarning under also creates tighter tension. You may crochet however you'd like but note that the gauge may be affected.

Rather than using the Magic Ring, use the "Ch 2" method when working with this type of chenille yarn. This will prevent the yarn from snagging.

Difficulty: intermediate+ due to working with an oval spiral, surface crocheting, and color changes.

Measurements: 6 in. x 4 in. [~15 cm x ~10 cm] if using the prescribed materialsef