DIY a Spinning Scratch Ball for Bunnies or Cats

Furry and fun pets for dolls can use this simple homemade toy to scratch and nuzzle.

      Unlike the old-stand-by for pets, the ball of yarn or twine, this toy contraption's twin cannot be unraveled all about the house! Either cats or rabbits may spin the suspended ball just barely in reach and dull the nails on their paws just as they would do with a scratching post. The doll version of this amusing toy may be embellished with decorative scrapbook papers and cardboard cutouts of triangles.

       I also suggest a second version below using an empty masking tape roll and a ball of yarn twisted about a skewer instead of covering a Styrofoam ball with glue and twine. Use what you have and craft something cute for your doll's favorite pet!

       To make either version of this toy you will need the following supplies plus a foam ball for the first version: yarn or twine, white school glue, scrap cardboard, a wooden skewer or toothpick, beads to hold the ball of yarn in place and decorative papers.

Left, step 1. Next, step. 2. Center, step 3. photographed. Right, see from different angle.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. To make the first version of this toy you will need to poke a long skewer through the center of a  small Styrofoam ball. 
2. Spread small amounts of white glue around the foam ball while you cover it with yarn or twine. 
3. Poke both ends of the cut skewer through the peak ends of two identically cut cardboard triangles. 
4. Glue a wooden bead at both end tips.
5. Glue the yarn covered sphere and triangles to the bottom of a cardboard base. Let dry.
6. Cover the sides of cardboard with decorative papers and white glue.
7. Decoupage to finish if you wish.

The second variation of the same kind of toy. This one
includes a yarn ball wrapped around itself instead of 
a foam form. It is also mounted on top of a masking
tape dispenser that has been cut in half.