Crochet-a-long: Padma part 1

OK so a few of you out there are into a crochet-a-long and I'm so glad because I think this could be really fun... here's the twist, I'm not going to show you my finished piece until the end! What I will share are the sketches I used to design the pattern, I call her Padma...

Padma is worked in a continuous spiral pattern for most of her parts, starting from the bottom up, then the top down. I'm using a bulky weight wool and size G hook, but gauge doesn't matter here so use what you like to get the results you prefer. With my supplies I will get an elephant about 5-6 inches tall, and 3-4 inches wide. You will also need some stuffing, 12-14mm eyes(optional), and any other embellishments you would like to adorn her with. Did I mention, I am going to provide a basic pattern here... so it's up to you to come up with your own way to dress her up! This makes the big reveal even more awesome ;D

The complete pattern is broken into 4 installments that I'll post here 2x a week(Sat & Wed).


As always, there must be rules, so here they are:
1. Ask any question or feedback that comes to mind while working on this project, that's why we're here!
2. Please share your pics, we want to see how it's going!
3. Even though this pattern is free, please don't copy and distribute it... but feel free to link to it here!


So here's the first installment of Padma:
LEGS(make 4)
Start with a magic circle into which 6 SC are made.
R1: INCR1 in each stitch across (12 sts)
R2: *SC 1, INCR1* repeat across (18 sts)
R3: In back loops only, SC across.
R4-7: SC across.

BELLY(make 1)
Start with a magic circle into which 6 SC are made.
R1: INCR1 in each stitch across (12 sts)
R2: *SC 1, INCR1* repeat across (18 sts)
R3: *SC 2, INCR1* repeat across (24 sts)
Next row joins legs to the belly
R4: *With yarn still attached to belly piece, pick up one of the legs and SC next 6sts through both belly and leg.* Repeat with each remaining leg, and bind off.