Shelf elves are a fun thing to do around the holidays. If you are like me and my family, though, you may find the store bought ones just a little creepy.

Last year, my son wanted one, so I decided to make him one instead of buying it. He named him Ernest and just loved him to death and was very sad when Ernest had to go back to the north pole. You see, Ernest was extra special and was allowed to receive a hug every now and again.

This year, I thought I’d spread the love and offer up a pattern for you all to make your own elf. I know there is a lot of patterns out there, but mine’s a little bigger and softer than most. You could even leave off the Velcro and just stuff the arms and legs and have a nice stuff doll to snuggle or decorate with.