One of the simplest toys to make is a ball. All this requires is some of those leftover odd or holey socks that seem to accumulate in most households. You can make a ball of any size depending on the number of socks you use. These balls are soft so can be used indoors and out. They can also be thrown in the washer and dryer. If your dog likes to chew on them till they're shredded, you can make more in just a few minutes.

For a basic Sock Ball, use 3 or 4 socks:

• Take your longest sock with the least number of holes for the base
• Roll and stuff the other socks inside
• Tie a firm knot in the base sock above the stuffed area
• Double the end of your base sock back over the entire ball
• Tie another knot and double the remaining end back over the ball
• Repeat until you run out of sock
• Trim off the remaining end

For a bigger ball, use as wide and long a sock as possible for the base and add more socks for the stuffing.

If you want a ball with a handle on it so you can throw it further or play tug-o'-war, make a Sock Swing Ball using 4 or more socks:

• Use your two longest socks for the base
• Roll and stuff the other socks inside
• Tie a knot in the base socks above the stuff area

That's all there is to it! Happy playing!