Craft Corner: Hand Sewn Sock Monkey

Photo by Jamie Plain

As the back-to-school season kicks off, kids are buzzing with excitement—and maybe a little bit of nervous energy. Help them unwind after a busy day or settle into a weekend routine with a cozy and creative project: turning fuzzy socks into hand-sewn sock monkeys! This heartwarming craft combines imagination, fine motor skill development, and the comfort of a cuddly buddy your child can make all by themselves (with a little help from you).

Materials Needed:

›› 1 pair of fuzzy socks (clean, new or gently used)

›› Scissors

›› Hand sewing needle and thread (or fabric glue for younger children)

›› Polyester fiberfill stuffing

›› Buttons for eyes (or felt pieces for younger children)

›› Ribbon or yarn (for optional accessories)

›› Fabric marker (optional, for facial features)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

›› Prepare the Body and Legs

Turn one sock inside out and lay it flat with the heel centered. Draw a line from the sock opening to the heel and cut to create two legs. Sew along each leg line, leaving a small opening for stuffing. Turn the sock right-side out, and stuff with fiberfill. Sew the opening closed.

›› Create Arms, Tail, and Ears

From the second sock, cut two identical pieces for arms, one long strip for the tail, two small pieces for ears and the heel for the mouth area. Sew each piece with right sides together, leaving openings for turning. Turn them right-side out, stuff lightly, and sew the openings closed.

›› Assemble the Monkey

Attach the arms and tail to the body. Position the ears on the head and sew them in place. For the face, use the oval from the sock’s heel or use felt. Sew it onto the face, leaving a small opening to add stuffing for a 3D effect, then sew it closed. Add buttons or felt pieces for eyes, and use embroidery thread or a fabric marker to create a smile.

›› Add Accessories

Personalize your sock monkey with a ribbon scarf, yarn bow, or even a tiny hat. Encourage your child to get creative with the accessories!

Safety Note:

For children under 8, it’s recommended to use fabric glue instead of a needle and thread, or have an adult handle the sewing portions. Always supervise children during crafting, especially when sewing.

Sock monkeys are a timeless, heartwarming project that repurposes materials you likely already have at home. Whether it’s a rainy day or a creative playdate, crafting these fuzzy friends is sure to bring smiles and sweet memories.