Learn How To Make the Cutest Flying Pig

When it comes to creating wonderful and whimsical projects using pin-loom pieces, Margaret Stump is a genius. I knew she was good when I first read her book Adorable Beasts, which featured 30 pin-loom animals, but I didn’t understand just how good until I saw her (Not So) Big Bad Wolf Scarf, which we ended up publishing in the 2019 issue.

While she’s made her fair share of “serious” projects—and I love those, too—the playful ones hold a special place in my heart. One of my favorite examples of Margaret’s genius is a project not from Little Looms, but from Handwoven: her beyond-adorable flying pig, Zoomer.

In fact, I love this project so much, I’m offering it as a bonus project to subscribers! (Not a subscriber yet? Check out more information about subscriptions and all their benefits here). Weave one or a whole passel (flock?)—you’re sure to be delighted either way.

Margaret designed the pig for Handwoven’s Flights of Fancy issue, and I think she knocked it out of the park. While she could have stopped after making a pig with wings, she took her project to another level by adding a flying scarf and goggles. Every time I look at Zoomer, I can’t help but be delighted.

To make Zoomer extra cuddly, Margaret wove the body using a plushy, velvet yarn. While it takes a square or two to get used to weaving with such a fluffy yarn, the results are well worth the effort. Margaret recommends tamping down the yarn with a fork or beater after each woven line and holding it up to the light if you can’t tell where you need to start weaving. (You can also get additional tips on weaving with the yarn here.)