Learn to make a spun cotton mouse - spun cotton art tutorial - make a mouse doll from cotton balls

Hello everyone!
I'm so excited to share this very lengthy and I hope very thorough make-along with you! It has been a labor of love... it took so much longer for me to pull all of this together than I originally expected but I feel very happy that I took the time to take photographs and write a blog tutorial and make a little pocket picture book and put together a supply kit because now I think you all have everything you might need to be successful at making a little cotton mouse at your fingertips.
You can find the blog photo tutorial here: sweethavensanctuary.org/rosan...
I hope you have lots of fun trying this out and that you love your sweet little mouse. You can of course use this method to make almost any type of animal but so many people have asked about making a mouse that I wanted to start here. I think mice are fun and sweet and I love that you can make a mouse essentially its actual size and then use it in a dollhouse or other miniature settings.
If you make a little mouse and share, please do tag me @rosannadellart as I like to see what you make!
I wish I didn't have to add this, but it's become an issue so please respect what I share here and do not impersonate me or present work that is indistinguishable from mine without attribution.
Please leave comments and questions below (and if you have criticisms please present them courteously)
Many thanks for watching, liking, and subscribing!
Happy making!
xo, Rosanna
00:00:00 - Start
00:00:29 - introduction
00:02:33 - supplies you'll need
00:06:15 - making the wire armature
00:11:59 - wrapping the body with cotton
00:20:11 - wrapping the legs
00:26:50 - wrapping the tail and securing the joints by adding cotton layers
00:35:18 - making the ears
00:40:27 - drying your mouse/ how to dry or bake it
00:40:47 - talking about/showing the difference between cotton balls and "fancy fibers"
00:45:33 - adding more layers of cotton/size/details to the mouse
00:51:09 - adding bead eyes
00:54:46 - finishing the cotton sculpting for the head and face
00:59:19 - painting the mouse
01:13:15 - painting details, finishing the face
01:17:38 - painting eyes
01:22:12 - comparison of two mice and conclusion
find the spun cotton supply kit here: sweethavensanctuary.org/shop
follow my art on Instagram and tag me @rosannadellart if you share what you make using these make-alongs 😊 I love to see what you create!
rosannadellart?...
find all the links for the materials I use in the blogpost here: sweethavensanctuary.org/rosan...
chenille pipe cleaners: www.amazon.com/Bundles-Zen-Pi...
paper covered wire: www.amazon.com/Decora-Gauge-B...
black beads: www.amazon.com/1200Pcs-Spacer...
cotton punis fiber: woolery.com/cotton-punis-from...
all music by Epidemic Sound

[@cherylmacedo5521]

You are NOT very bad at making identical mice, you are VERY GOOD at making unique characters 🥰

[@sillybeeful]

Yes indeed…. Remember your mice are sisters not quadruplets 🐭🐭🐭🐭…🐭

[@Rosannamakes]

😅 that's a good way of reframing it 😅 thank you Cheryl 🥰

[@elisabettadesimoni7807]

Ciao 😊sono Lisa e i tuoi topini sono dolcissimi ❤❤❤❤ volevo chiederti,io abito in un posto molto umido eventualmente con cosa posso proteggere queste piccole sculture dopo la rifinitura in pittura acrilica?! Grazie e sei fantastica ❤❤❤

[@shilohndrah]

So agree with you there!❤️❤️❤️

[@jessicafedele8595]

You don’t talk too slow. It’s very relaxing to watch you create and hear you discuss how to do it. Don’t change.

[@faylenekeep6235]

If viewers want you to talk faster, they can speed up the video. I appreciate your calm voice. Thanks for sharing your videos with us. 😊😊😊

[@aprildomer422]

YES! Exactly! Very good point….speed up the video a little bit to suit the speed at which you’d like to hear Rosanna speak. I too love listening to your calm, soothing voice.😊I think you are delightful & very creative & your little mice are ADORABLE! I’m so happy that your vid just appeared like magic today… how did the YT algorithms know that I wanted to learn how to make little cotton creatures? I’ve been think about it for months, thanks for sharing your talents & techniques with us Rosanna. I can't wait to learn to make the mice & them move on to other little critters. What joy! THANK YOU! 🐀🐁🐿🦨🦝🦦🐇🐑🐩🐈‍⬛🐕‍🦺

[@difficult.e]

Agreed. I need a slow talking tutorial. My audio processing is not as good as others.

[@roxyb3323]

I find your videos calming and peaceful. Much needed in the world so please don’t change ❤

[@carolinapalacios7982]

Thank you for this wonderful tutorial. I’m 60 years old and love your soothing voice plus the length of your video. I normally needle felt but love to learn new ways to make sculptures.

[@ImGinaMarie]

Thanks for sharing, don't change how you present your art, then it wouldn't be you!! Always be YOU! Don't let the naysayers steal your sparkle!

[@cherylmacedo5521]

First off…I LOVE your intro, and the music, and the thought, time, and creativity that went into it. Brava…ok, back to it 😘

[@shilohndrah]

Warching and listening to your channel Rosanna, is so calming and therapeutic!❤❤❤🤗🤗🤗so soft and sweet!!!

[@betzie2]

I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed your video. Don’t dare change your style or process for anyone! You are so articulate and I love the pace of your tutorial. I just finished writing a story about a little mouse for my grandson. Now I am so excited to make one to go with it! I just happened upon your video today …fate! Absolutely love your little mice! Thank you so very much for sharing! ❤❤❤

[@susanmacdonald4288]

I loved the video, and all of your little mice are totally charming! I can see this technique working for other little creatures as well...birds would be partucularly sweet.

[@jessiehaislet3625]

@Roseanne- This is one of the coolest art projects I’ve seen so far. I love how the mice work up so fast and the end result gratifying. They are adorable and you are amazing! Thank you!

[@maryjolowe631]

I’m so excited to have found you! I’ve just recently discovered this craft and the fact that you’re providing free tutorials is so generous! Pay no attention to the complainers. I’ve never understood why people can’t just move on!

[@heatherwise8450]

I agree. I think your pacing of speech and working is so much more soothing, peaceful, and feels like you’re sitting with a friend. Many tutorials by others I have to pause it frequently. Your cadence and vibe is perfect for me. Then again, I’m 50. So I’m your demographic. lol.

[@shaanblamires6751]

Don't think I have the patience for this lovely craft...but I just LOVE listening to you and watching because your voice and manner are SO CALMING! Your videos are a soothing moment in a chaotic world. Thank you!

[@user67883]

Look at these tiny mice! How cute are they! You remind me of a modern-day Beatrix Potter! How utterly enchanting these little animals are! You have a wonderful imagination and creativity. I can almost see each character moving around in their quick, lively way, whiskers, noses, and tails twitching and black eyes glinting. Your sweet voice adds to the charm of it all.

[@lioness5953]

Be yourself. You are perfectly wonderful as you are. I love watching you create. Love the mice❤

[@kathyallen8323]

Thank you so much for showing us your process. I have wanted to make a mouse for a very long time. I’m almost 66 and I love every minute of your videos. Don’t change a thing.

[@daisygirlstitching]

You are very sweet and lovely! Ignore all the others that may not like your voice. Each precious soul is unique in God’s eyes. I ordered your kit and I’m looking forward to creating my own sweet mice!

[@jphskw]

I absolutely LOVE your tone, speed and sound of talking. Before you began mentioning it, I was thinking I should turn this site on to listen to when I go to bed. It relaxes me and puts me in a comfy cozy state of mind. I hope you don't change it.

[@Rosannamakes]

Oh my goodness, that's incredibly kind of you to say. I guess that's an example of "different strokes for different folks" 🤭 thank you so much for the encouragement ❤

[@crm208]

❤love the darling little mice. Thank you for all you do for the animals at the sanctuary. I love all of God's precious creatures, they are his gifts to us. 😘❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🤍💗

[@lindaokane6986]

How wonderful to see you at work Rosanna. All your little mice are sweet and lovely. You are so generous to share so much. I look forward to having a go later in the year. 🐭🐭

[@flolangley5034]

Awww! These are the cutest creations. Absolutely adorable. Thank you for taking the time to share.

[@Rosannamakes]

You're so welcome and thanks for your kind comment 🥰

[@salliegottula467]

Love how you do your videos. Your calm voice, how you explain how to do things. I have an art degree I am so impressed don’t change a thing in your videos. Your sweet daughter has a real gift. Just ignore the negativity.❤

[@karateana7593]

I love the speed you speak, you have a very soothing voice, if people dont like it than can watch something else.

[@marthaperez9740]

Hello, I love how you talk for people like me that English is a second language is very nice because I can understand everything that you say, your work is adorable what a talented you are, thank you for the amazing tutorial ♥️🌹

[@cynthiamolenaar770]

Exactly!! And the world around us is already as crazy as it is...

[@martamccool2740]

I don’t care how you talk. I am grateful that you share with us your knowledge wish is beautiful. You have nothing to be ashamed of! The people who criticize and have never enough, and do not know other thing but comen to make you feel bad is who must be ashamed and regrets of being unfair ungraceful. Thank you for generosity and show us how to do your beautiful creations.

[@ladyyvonneelainehickerman117]

The little mice look so real as if they could come to life and run or just sit there and eat cheese, you have a amazing talent, very gifted artist, please keep the videos coming please x❤

[@MargaretePum]

Einfach süß! Du bist großartig! Danke für das Tutorial

[@maggibrowncardlife]

This was your first video that I’ve seen… I just turned 40, and I like how soothing your voice is, and that you don’t talk too fast! I’m in awe of what you can make with cotton! These mice are Adorable!!!🥰🫶🏻🤗

[@sarahlongshore2605]

I opened one of my drawers the other day and there was a little grey mouse looking back at me!!! Then I saw this video and thought. I WANT THAT!!! Thank you for the tutorial. And never apologize for how you talk. I'm from the the south. We don't apologize for the way we talk. Neither should you ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@vickinoeske1154]

These little darlings look so real. I'm so happy Jolene at Tiny Keyhole Minis referenced you.😊❤

[@KASH10043]

So glad your tutorial showed up on my home page! Many so-called tutorials are nothing more than someone selling every possible thing under the sun whereas you actually teach us how to make something adorable with things many of us might already have at home. With time an patience we may turn out something as nice as you one day or close enough . And I loved your chatting us throughout, not a bad to say about any of it!

[@RuaWaterwalker]

Any artisan knows that any hand made item, is unique! So don't worry about identical items, just create! Thank you for sharing!

[@shilohndrah]

Rosanna you and your creations are adorable. The first one I watched was the rustic Easter chicks. It made so much sense to celebrate the day without the live chicks. Love your little troupe of mice characters, each so unique and individual. Also I envy your beautiful steady hands. Have had a tremor all my life, and I love making critters, flowers, you name it. When I'm in a zone, my hands don't tremble. I know one thing for sure, we're here to learn, share and enjoy. I'm Susan, a 77 year old grandma in Northern California. Much love and appreciation for your explanations and slower speech; it's very comforting.❤🙏

[@Rosannamakes]

Susan, I'm so happy to meet you and thank you for your kind and generous message. I know what you mean about being in the zone.. when my anxiety is high my hands are not as steady. Making is usually very calming. Sending love to you and wishing you happy making! 🩷

[@shilohndrah]

@@Rosannamakes just bought a roll of masking tape for making the charming little beings from cotton balls!🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️

[@lesleybailey6924]

Matilda jumping up to look at your gorgeous mice is so cute....just checking they're not real... because they certainly look real. A delight thankyou so very much!!🌸

[@marilynstevens2809]

You are so kind to offer such an honest and detailed demonstration. I love your work and how cute these little characters are. I especially enjoy how explanatory you are and I appreciate you don't speed things up just because you showed how to do one arm or something. Bravo sweetie and can't wait to see what else you do.

[@lucyl6425]

Oh, he came out so cute. Oh my goodness so enjoyed watching your video and I truly appreciate that you speak softly. Thank you.

[@lauralayton3996]

I remember my grandmother making dolls like this for her collection of miniature clothes she made. She was a serious collector of antique dolls, but this was her hobby, and the dolls were her investment. I need some mice for my doll cabinet.

[@Pee_Weee]

You talk perfect to me. I don't know why you'd get any complaints. I think this is my favorite youtube tutorial ever and I've watched alot of youtube.❤

[@sarahyates6055]

These are so cute! They are all individual in their own way just like real mice, they have their own little personalities which makes them more realistic and adorable.

[@toniprutch8956]

I like the way you talk. Your voice is very soothing.

[@janet7287]

Here's my tuppence worth 😀I was so disappointed I could not create a masterpiece in 5 mins flat, as demonstrators do. You are realistic, it takes time to create. I can actually do it with you, not pause and then panic as with the ffwd's. So u do u as you say the others can go where their needs are met, plus it's relaxing listenig to you, I guess you are for those among us who have learned patience - don't change please

[@jrenewermelinger2156]

Dear Rosanna Thanks for your Video and your Time to show us your work! It is wonderful and beautiful. I love all yours nice Things! Jrène🐁

[@sarahs5340]

Literally the cutest project ever! I love love it. 🤎🤍🖤🩶 thank you for filming it.

[@barbaraness4507]

I’m 61, and haven’t done a lot of sculpting in my life, but a few years ago I made a huge project. It was a spooky tree that was taller than me. I usually make miniature pieces, and have dabbled with making wire armatures covered with foil, and tape. I can see where this would give a more realistic look.

[@ronelsnyders148]

These is the cutest little mice ever! I'm definitely going to try! Thank you so much for sharing your skills!😊

[@JennCadyFiddlyBits]

33:43 What many people (often young but not always) don’t understand is that in order to become masterful at whatever they choose, you must first have patience to repeat making the same type or family of products over and over. There is value in listening to someone talk through their thinking process so that they can absorb HOW you make creative decisions. That part of the process is how your craft is honed, and it is an honor to come with you into your studio and listen. If you make your videos authentic, your audience will continue to watch. They may not be the audience you expect, but those who appreciate long form videos like me will stick around.

[@Rosannamakes]

Thank you for such a kind and supportive comment. What you say is very true and very insightful 🥰

[@DaisyDebs]

🐭🐭I so enjoyed watching you making adorable little mice today ! 🐭🩷

[@annsmith4739]

Just found your channel!love these mice Ann uk 🇬🇧🇬🇧❤️❤️❤️

[@terryolsson4145]

Love your adorable little mice. You bring them to life.

[@healingspace1772]

Your voice is perfect and calming and this is a perfectly calming activity to be exactly the Way You Are describing. No apologies for this.

[@kathfindlay1612]

I think the way you talk is perfect, a lot of people talk too fast and we miss things, please don't change

[@iartistdotme]

Adorable with good instructions - can't wait to bring one to life myself. Thanks!

[@user-fm5yx5mf4i]

Какие прелестные мышки❤

[@jeanmarie4368]

Thank you for doing this video. I spent all day yesterday making these and had so much fun. I used only what I had at home so mine are made with cotton balls and they came out really nice. Please keep making these videos.

[@Rosannamakes]

I'm so glad to hear that!! Yay! Hope you continue to enjoy spun cotton and thanks for your kind comment 🥰

[@user-os3jk1kd1c]

Rosanna your videos are amazing! Your voice is very relaxing and I really appreciate you taking the time to make such beautiful tutorials! People need to learn if they cannot say something nice to go make their own videos! Also, if they want your tutorial to go faster they can click the settings widget on the bottom right corner of the video and increase the speed. Do not change a thing! Your art is magnificent! Thank you again!🐁🐁🐁🐀🌷🌷

[@heatherwise8450]

Agreed!

[@cherylmacedo5521]

Ahhhhh, that kit is so sweet. You do such a lovely job, creating, teaching, and presenting your adorable handmade treasures 🤍🤍🤍

[@maureenp7082]

You have a very relaxing voice! Don't feel like you have to change for anyone. It bothers me that people complain about FREE tutorials. Pretty sure they're in the minority. Thank you for your great tutorials. ❤

[@MargaretePum]

Einfach süß! Du bist großartig! Danke für das Tutorial❤

[@karinmeira]

Dearest Rosanna, you are The Kindest Artist I have ever met! Thank You for being Y♥️U. I will be continuing to follow you eagerly, share your work with other like-minded people and I look so much forward to what you have in mind to develop throughout this year. Much love to you!

[@carolinejones8677]

In a park near me someone dresses and decorates inside a hollow of a tree. They do this for each season or holiday. It delights so many families with children who peer into the hollow. It is hidden unless you peer right into the tree . A cute display of rat family with clothes and mini furniture, sometimes lighting. Your little mouse family remind me if this. The Joy is a childlike innocence

[@Rosannamakes]

That is magical, how wonderful ✨️

[@MasterofScrutiny]

I like the way you talk. You sound calm and cool.

[@dianecrouthamel9626]

I love your video and can hardly wait to start making these adorable little critters! Thank you for sharing your time and talent. 💖

[@linzertube]

Awww! These little mice are so sweet! Your tutorial was perfect and I hope to one day make a few anthropomorphic animal characters of my own. Cheers to you and your fine work, Rosanna!

[@karenheidelberger4535]

You are an amazing talent! So sweet of you to share your skills. I’m going to enjoy trying my hand at this.

[@blancatirado576]

Great tutorial. I appreciate your time I learned a lot. I’m 70 yrs old😊

[@godschildyes]

Old Worlde! My kind of Artisan! New Subscriber! Thank You So Much! 😁

[@carolinapalacios7982]

Mice eyes stick out. Beads are perfect! Your mouse is so cute. I excited to try making a mouse using this technique.!

[@charlesfrost5126]

What a fab video thank you. There’s nothing wrong with the speed of talking.

[@bonnieclark5307]

I absolutely loved your video! Your voice is so calming! I am amazed at how you can make cotton balls and basically wire come alive into this precious mouse! I can’t wait to watch more of your content! Great job!

[@jenniferh4603]

SO adorable! I’ll be watching this a second time to create a mouse friend along with you.

[@katfyte]

The longer the better!

[@lorindaannleighton4194]

😃I am totally inspired to try and make my own. You made a wonderful moment in time and you have a beautiful soothing manner. Thank you ❤🇦🇺

[@lyndamchugh249]

The mice are sooo cute. You do a nice job on the painting. Thanks for😅sharing with us.

[@user-ty8fo8zh2u]

Super cute, I love them! I think I like the texture from the cotton balls a little better than the other cotton. Both are lovely.

[@Handmemoretramadol]

This is one of the most wonderful things I have ever seen how talented you are

[@suestabb5869]

Just watched and I'm enchanted! I can't wait to start making them. Thank you so much for a relaxing and informative tutorial. They're perfect!

[@janeperry5890]

So enjoy your presentations! Thank you for sharing your methods with us all. Looking forward to receiving my kit. You work magic in almost everything you do, Rosanna!🐁🐁🐁

[@kimcox6497]

Those are absolutely adorable!!!

[@alison614606]

These are the cutest thing I’ve ever seen!

[@American_Honey]

So inspired! Love your work! Thank you for taking your time and walking thru each step. Excited to see the accessories and all your ideas come to life!

[@catherinefrisbie1342]

Thanks so much for this tutorial. These mice are adorable! Painting while they're wet is genius

[@CobwebCottage]

Absolutely beautiful video demonstration tutorial. I loved every single minute of it and the end results are spectacular! I can't wait to have a go at making my own mouse. Thank you so much Rosanna. Bless you. Many regards ~ Cobs (GB) xxx

[@kathypatrick427]

I absolutely love your videos and your adorable cotton creations! Thank you for sharing with us!

[@betsyvanek9275]

personally i think as a beginner the fast talking would add stress and people missing parts od instructions or not understanding. This is relaxing and very good. Always remember...This is YOUR channel! You are teaching in your own method. People can find faster or simply fast forward if they choose to do so. Thank you for your sharing , time & patience ❤

[@Complexity-in-the-Grey]

Absolutely brilliant. Your work, your description, you video, your talk through. Wonderful project. I so want to create some of these now.

[@user-dr9ji3qs7u]

This is sooo interesting. I appreciate you taking the time to show us. Don’t change the way you present your art!

[@lauralayton3996]

I use the really small black pins for eyes. It makes adjusting them better, and the shine gives life to them.

[@MartyYokawonis]

Excellent video and presentation

[@greatdanelady6956]

Totally adorable! Your presentation was excellent. Try not to be so hard on yourself, I know it’s hard but you are really very good at what you do. Thanks for making these videos 🥰 ❤

[@genevieveguerin8482]

Wow!!! 🤩 Really, I'm impressed! 😮❤ You must have " le coup d'œil" to make so identical mouses like that!!❤ Congratulations and thank you really really much for this tutorial.❤ Geneviève du Québec xxxx

[@shiningstar328]

So cute. The intro with the little mice reminded me of the movie "Babe" and the little singing mice.

[@monaferrell9403]

How cute! Thanks for the video!

[@ohkdkitty]

They're so adorable. You've inspired me to try to learn this skill. You're so good at it. Thank you for sharing it with us. I love your video & voice. ❤

[@doriskarloff964]

How adorable are these! Thank you for sharing your talent and creativity. 💖

[@Valen_Wolf]

Your little kit is so cute! What a grand idea to collect all the materials for us.. Thank you for this cuteness!! 🐀

[@shirleykathan-sayess5764]

Wonderful!!! I love your mice! ❤

[@ladylee8364]

Hi there I’ve just found your channel and I have to say you are very well spoken and I very much enjoyed your turtorials And I’m really enjoying the making of your mice 🐁 And as far as talking it’s your channel you do what you want as far as I’m concerned it’s wonderful listening to you you are wonderful Thanks for the wonderful videos

[@SamPoole]

Awww Humphrey and Mona are so adorable ☺️ I truly appreciate you taking your time to share this process 😘 I cannot wait to give this a go ☺️ PS, the intro was so cute 🐭🐭🐭 Hugs, Sam xoxo

[@celestee.garcia2571]

Very very cute!!! I like your method and manner. You can make all types of expressions such as sleepy eyes with a whisper of an eyelid. Adding a tiny piece of cotton halfway over the bead. ❤ You are doing great.

[@beverleyroach-macdonald3919]

I love this idea! I want to make mice decorations for my Christmas tree! I will definitely give this technique a try.