These instructions can be used to make a dog, cat, or any similarly structured animal. Once you have mastered the basic idea, it’s fun and easy to play with the shapes and proportions to make almost any creature you can imagine!

Step 1: Materials

You will need:

1 pair of socks with heels (no tube socks)
matching thread
needle
poly-fill or other stuffing
embroidery floss and/or felt (for facial features)
optional: 2 buttons (for eyes)
10” of 1/2”-wide ribbon (for collar)

Step 2: Cutting

Cut first sock as shown in diagram A, shortening cuff until length is appropriate for back legs. Then flatten sock lengthwise, heel facing up, and cut a slit to separate the two back legs.

Step 3: Stitching

With sock inside out, stitch across feet and up leg seams, leaving an opening at the space between the legs. Turn right side out and stuff through opening. Stitch closed.

Step 4: Stuffing

Now cut second sock into head, front legs, ears and tail as per diagram B. Position head piece onto body and stitch around neck, attaching head to body. Note: you may need to pinch a tuck out of back of neck and stitch it closed in order to raise head to desired position. Stuff head and stitch closed, turning raw edges in and sculpting as you go to create a muzzle-like shape.

Step 5: More Stitching

With right sides facing in, stitch front legs along one short side and the long sides. Turn right sides out and stuff, then position onto body and attach along open top edge.