Our elf has discovered a new way to put his feet up. It involves borrowing two mugs and a little cloth. 💤
His tiny hammock is hanging just above the table, and the note says “Rock-a-bye elf.”
This easy elf idea makes a small resting place with a fabric sling, rather than a bed or a tent.
What you’ll need:
- One official Elf on the Shelf doll (paid link)
- A small cotton cloth or handkerchief
- Two heavy, wide-based mugs with handles
- A note and pen
Setup:
Put the two empty, heavy mugs on a level table with their handles facing each other. Tie opposite corners of the cloth through the handles to form a low sling between them. Adjust the gap and knots until the middle of the cloth hangs only a little above the table. Test it with your elf before leaving the scene, moving the mugs closer if the fabric pulls them inward. Recline the elf in the cradle with his face towards the children, his mittens in his lap and his floppy feet resting over the near edge. Add the “Rock-a-bye elf” note. This is a small, still display for a lightweight doll; it does not need to swing. In the morning, the children can decide whether he has been rocking himself to sleep or simply avoiding his Christmas jobs.
Use what you have:
Use a clean handkerchief and mugs already in the cupboard. If your cloth or supports do not make a steady sling, place a folded cloth underneath to carry the elf’s weight and let the tied fabric provide the hammock shape. The snug little cradle still looks lovely.
Try the tea-towel camping trip or counting cotton sheep for another elf scene.
