My first mistake was thinking I was going to go make a sock monkey real quick. He will never get a brother and I nicknamed him Lumpy, but he’s finished and my daughter loves him. That’s what counts.
Codi had to move to a new dorm room last week, and I was trying to come up with a little dorm-warming present for her. She had mentioned several months ago that she loves sock monkeys and I happened to find these fun socks, so it seemed like a great idea.
I used the tutorial from Craft Passion. It’s a great tutorial, and most of the hiccups I faced were my own fault.
What’s cuter than a basket of sock monkeys? Well, Craft Passion’s sock monkeys at least.
I don’t think starting with knee socks was the best idea. It makes for very long legs, arms and tail, which are very difficult to stuff. I didn’t have any problem cutting the pieces though. Her illustration made it easy.
I made my seams too skinny and had to sew some of them a second time when they started popping loose. I also didn’t leave the area for turning large enough, so my sock developed a run when it was pulled too much. I was able to stitch it up, but it added more time to my already very long project. These socks were a very stretchy nylon, so I think a natural fiber with less stretch would work better.
I had a little difficulty with the method for stuffing the tail, but I think it’s because I pulled it too hard and the batting broke. Again, all me.
In the end, Lumpy took 4 hours to finish. Take a look at those arms and you might understand how he got his name.
When I was finished, I showed him to my son, who looked at me like I had just had a conversation with a potted plant. The look of relief when I told him I didn’t make one for him was almost insulting.
As I said before though, the girl with whom Lumpy will be spending his days thought he was adorable. She was even surprised when I said I made him. That, or someone did a great job teaching her some manners.
I think he is adorable! You did a great job.
Thanks Pam!
I think Lumpy is gorgeous and you’ve inspired me to have a go. I’ve never seen a sock monkey before but I think my family is soon to see several! Gorgeous!
Sock monkeys are pretty popular right now, so there are LOTS of tutorials for them out there. I’m sure yours will turn out great Elizabeth!
I think he is really cute. Had to laugh reading the story of your kids reaction to Lumpy. Very cute.
Thanks – they definitely keep me laughing!
Awesome project!
Thank you!
I think he is lovely. There is a Japanese philosophy known as wabi sabi which concentrates on recognizing beauty in imperfection. I think it fits the bill. I love him. Laura
Wabi sabi
Oh, I love that Laura! I think I need something for the wall in my sewing room that says “Wabi sabi!”
Hee! Lumpy looks fantastic! Your daughter has very good manners too, though, and your son is hilarious.
He’s 17 and thinks he’s hilarious too…sometimes he’s right!
I love Lumpy! Cute socks!
I thought so too – I almost just gave her the socks instead of making the monkey!
I love him and his unique touches make him even more adorable and much more special to your daughter!
You have all made me feel so much better about Lumpy! My husband visited her at school last week and sent me a photo from her dorm room. Over her shoulder was her new monkey sitting on her desk!