Mochi the Tanuki is a yokai spirit found in the mountains and forests of Japan in the shape of a raccoon dog. Tanukis are mischievous creatures who like to play tricks on people by shapeshifting. They’re often represented with the following symbols: big eyes to perceive their environment, a friendly smile, a bold big belly, a steady tail, a hat for protection, a sake bottle for virtue, a promissory note for trust, a lantern to guide their way, a leaf to represent nature, and a giant scrotum that transforms as part of their ruses.

The pattern is written in U.S. terminology. The main part of this project is worked in rounds so you might want to use a stitch marker to mark the end of each round. There is no specific gauge for this project, just try to keep it tight and even throughout each piece. Mochi the Tanuki measures approx. 13cm (5.1in), when using the same yarn/tools as indicated below and working with the “x” single crochet technique (yarn under, yarn over). Make sure to also start the other stitches with yarn under to keep the same tension throughout.

Skill Level: Intermediate

Materials

• Hobbii Friends Cotton 8/4, 100% cotton yarn, 50g / 160m, in Light brown (approx. 26g), Brown (approx. 11g), Off-white (approx. 6g), Pink (approx. 1g), Light green (approx. 1g), Yellow (approx. 11g)
• 2.5mm crochet hook
• 10mm safety eyes
• Black embroidery thread
• Sewing needle
• Toy stuffing
• Yarn needle
• Scissors