How to Cut Monkey Arms on Sock Puppets

Just as you use your hands and arms as a mode of expression, so too will your sock puppet. Proportion the arms in relation to the look you're trying to achieve. For example, you'd opt for longer puppet arms on a monkey or an octopus but cut the arms shorter for a dog or person. This part of making the sock puppet takes less than 5 minutes.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Prepare the sock you'll use for the arms; this can be one you used part of to create other pieces of the puppet. Ensure a straight, even cut by smoothing the sock flat before cutting it. Use your hands or consider warming up the iron to flatten it out.

2. Use the longest portion of the sock from the heel to the top for longer arms. Make your cut above the heel area to square off the arm section.

3. Achieve a more symmetrical and balanced cut by cutting through the top and bottom layers separately instead of making one cut through both layers. Smooth the sock out flat and cut the top layer in half lengthwise.

4. Use chalk or a felt-tip marker to make a guide line for cutting the bottom layer. If you're working with new socks, you can use the creases on each side to guide you with the cutting line on the bottom layer. Cut the bottom layer.

Tips & Warnings

• To add extra style to your sock puppet, use a contrasting color sock for the arms.
• If you have excessive raveling during or after the cut, use a fray preventative spray to hold it together until you begin sewing.
• Extra-sharp scissors ensure a straighter, more even cut with thicker sock material.