Gauge is not necessarily important here, however you may need to use a smaller or larger hook depending on your project. When I originally made these, I was making a blanket using a size F hook,
then went down 1 hook size to make the elephants.

If you are making an applique or beginning a piece with the elephants, first chain 23, then sc in 1st st from hook and across. Chain 1 (doesn’t count as a st), turn, and then begin the pattern.

At the end, the sample shown has only 3 single crochet stitches worked. That is fine for applique or stand-alone piece, but if you are making a border, you do need 5 single crochets worked at the end.

I DO have permission from the original designer to post this English translation.