How to Make a Neuron

Who doesn't need an extra brain cell from time to time? I mean with all the 'zombies' out there, it seems only right to contribute to the plus column. Enter: Hairy Bobb. He's a brain cell for needy adults. I began making these creatures after a debilitating movement disorder kept me in bed for 18 months. I needed something that was relatively "unmessy" but satisfied my deep need to MAKE stuff! (I come from fine maker stock!) I know these are really just sock dolls, but they seemed to be manifestations of what my brain was doing at the time, and my husband started calling them Neurons. I haven't been able to stop making them since and no two are alike, each having a distinct personality! Watch out, these are rebellious Neurons! 
(I have since made a miraculous recovery thanks to the Mayo Clinic.)

What you need to make a Neuron:
  - one polka dot sock (but most places make you buy them in pairs)
  - matching thread
  - ball of yarn
  - yarn needle
  - an old sock 
  - beans
  - poly stuffing

Step 1 The Unsuspecting Sock

Any sock will do. As it turns out, most socks are not expecting to be snatched and cut up, so they are easy to nab (must be why a dryer can separate and out wit them). I lay it out flat, not like a boot (aka: not Christmas stocking-wise) but as if it were on my foot. Then I snip off the toe below the seam. I like my Neurons to have short legs (if any at all) and so will trim off the leg of this knee-high sock also. Leave around 5"-6" between the heel and the leg opening.

Comments

[ahoneybee]

You can buy socks in almost matching threes at littlemissmatched.com.

[Sunny124613]

Oh, well this is just cool. I can't wait to get another PAIR of socks! (even neurons need a friend)

[pencilwit]

Yes, never enough brain cells in my house..head...thanks:) (Love the salt dough! That's what our mom made for us growing up...no fancy pants store bought stuff! Thanks for the short trip down memory lane)

[Sunny124613]

Yes, no problem, just had to master the mix of salt and flour.. Also, what size sock would you need for your project ( what size did you use?)

[pencilwit]

I use a ladies knee high sock. I've uses kid size white tube socks too as well as adult tube socks, not a lot of color there. Women's knee highs give me the most freedom to add extras and you need the length for legs that anklets don't provide.

[Sunny124613]

Thanks, I guess I'll buy some socks for my graduation present :D

[BeanGolem]

 So Silly! Love it. I like the youthful/aged juxtaposition of polka dots and facial hair. This world needs more stuffed things.

[pencilwit]

Thanks! Love your stuffed fellows too! Getting compliments from the likes of you and other, makes me smile...a lot.

Actually didn't get the juxtaposition till you pointed it out...smiling again.

[nickhoefer]

 Nicely done.  I feel as if I have made one myself.  This excites my neurons delightfully. And, without any bloodshed.  Colorful technical terms are very helpful (nobbies!)

Great pics, too!

[pencilwit]

You are too kind. Wow, tickling YOUR brilliant brain is quite a compliment! Thanks! ...cool...

[Treasure Tabby]

Ditto on the absolutely adorable. Oh and yeah nice instructions too.
Oh and my pompoms would be perfect on your Neuron creatures. Just click in to my parlor said the web spider to the cyber fly. ;)

[drseuss]

 OH.MY.GOD! These are absolutely adorable. What a wonderfully clear instructable. Well done. Thanks so much.

[ChrysN]

I love it!