Wowzers! I would LOVE a crocheted sock monkey! Those are ADORABLE!!!
I actually craft quite a bit. I have my undergraduate degree in fine arts in sculpture so I've learned to work with all sorts of media and how to craft and which materials work well and which don't. I experiment a lot obviously as well.
During the holiday season, I make photo ornaments. I get pretty elaborate with them but unfortunately, don't have any photos of them handy. I take clear craft bulb ornaments and insert laser printed photos on the interior. Then decorate in various ways. I will have to start taking photos of them.
My description really sounds lack luster but they really turn out great most of the time. Tricky craft but worth it with a little patience.
I also make homemade lip balms and am researching how to make chapsticks and experimenting with different recipes.
**Edited to show a photo example of my craft:Unfortunately, this isn't a great photo to show the detail. The images are on the inside wall of the bulb. I usually coat the inside with all glitter, but this time, I only coated the bottom of the interior with a fine shimmery glitter, filing it with fuzzy, fancy craft snowballs: a look and feel inspired by the soft dusty snowfall. The interior of this particular design, unlike many of the ornaments I create, can be seen so I fill it with fun lightweight things. Other designs include exterior designs with gems or beads or glittery designs and such. On this one: The outside says "Roman's First Christmas 2009" - which is the name of my nephew. The hook on the top is not shown but I take a thin gauge wire (used for things like beaded jewelry) and twist designs, threading tiny decorative beads and really tiny jingle bells on it. It's tricky not to break the beads.
These are much more fun to see in person....trust me. This is NOT a great image unfortunately. More photos will be taken during the holidays, when everyone I know has their home made ornament out. There are many out there but few photos exist. I don't photograph my work much...though I should.