Over a hundred years ago my grandfather taught my father and his eight brothers how to make a mouse out of an old handkerchief. Years later he learned how to make the mouse into a bunny.

It was a time when parents could not afford to buy toys for their children. Instead, they used ordinary materials to make their own. These folk traditions were passed on from one generation to the next. I was taught how to make them by my father and now I want to pass this on to you.

Once you have mastered the technique, you can have fun making a mouse right in front of your friend’s eyes. With more practice, you can ask if anyone is brave enough to “pet” the mouse. Some people are afraid of mice and may not want to do this, but later, perhaps, they will have the courage to pet the bunny… but maybe not.

I’m not going to tell you what can happen, so watch the video and learn from a master. You’ll need to practice and practice, and practice some more but when you have mastered the technique you’ll be able to take a hankie and make the mouse right in front of your friend’s eyes. Watching you do this will amaze them and if you’ve practiced a lot, you might just give them a startling surprise. Keep a hanky in your pocket ready to go when the opportunity presents itself.

Use your bunny/mouse any way you choose. It’s fun, entertaining and will give you the opportunity to learn about folk art that has existed for over a century.

Enjoy and good luck!