Purpose and Traditional Beliefs

The goat is one of the most common images in Russian folk toys. In traditional beliefs, it was considered a symbol of home and security, a favorable sign. The goat was associated with good luck, fertility, and prosperity, as well as with joy and merriment.

During the Christmastide period, children dressed up as goats and went caroling. The toy is still used as a charm and a home decoration.

Materials

• fabric for the base (a piece about 20 × 30 cm);
• fabric for the strips (strips about 5 cm wide are cut);
• red and white threads;
• red satin ribbons for a bow;
• a bell.

Making Procedure

1. Base (Body)

1. Fold the fabric in half.
2. Tightly tie the middle with thread. This forms a rounded base that shapes the goat's body.
3. Place a core inside the base, symbolizing the goat's chest.

2. Handles

1. Braid strips of fabric into a plait.
2. Tie the plait with a knot that secures the structure.
3. Position the handles symmetrically so that they are identical in length and shape.
4. Attach the handles to the middle of the base.

3. Wrapping with Red Thread

1. Wrap the handles with red thread.
2. Guide the thread so that crosses form on the piece.
3. By tradition, the cross is considered a protective element. Extra crosses can be left on the chest, where they pass through the body.

4. Muzzle

1. Shape the upper part into a muzzle.
2. Open the middle to form the mouth.
3. The ends of the strips in this part can be left loose.

5. Dress

1. Fold one end of the strip and form folds.
2. Smooth the folds so that they lie evenly and symmetrically.
3. Fasten the dress to the goat's body.
4. Trim the excess ends.

6. Decoration

1. Tie knots at the ends of the plait.
2. The knots can be decorated with bows made of red satin ribbons.
3. Attach a bell to the piece. It symbolizes joy and merriment.

Wishes Made During Creation

By tradition, wishes are made while the goat is being created. The wishes are bound with a red thread. Among them are prosperity, luck, coziness, and housekeeping skill.

Conclusion

After all the steps are completed, the braid is ready. The toy can be used as a charm, a decorative element, or a gift.