What are Fuzzy Dice?

In the time of Elvis and the hula-hoop, big hair and big cars, fuzzy dice hung from the rear-views of every street rod with even an ounce of cool. Fuzzy dice were generally white with black dots just like playing dice, but several times larger, resembling large fuzzy pillows.

Fuzzy dice can come in different colors and sizes, but original fuzzy dice measured about 4 inches (10 cm) per side. They dangled over dashboards at drive-in movies and drive-through malt shops. They jittered with the rev of engines through glass-pack exhaust pipes on drag strips and at streetlights. A lead sled just wasn't complete without a set of large fuzzy dice.

Fuzzy dice were one of the first decorations to hang from rear-view mirrors. This trend was followed over the years by a variety of items, including rosary beads, "love beads," crystals on a chain and air fresheners. Today, fuzzy dice are available in all colors and many sizes as a novelty gift. While considered tacky by some and campy by others, fuzzy dice can still set the tone in a vintage 1950s cherry muscle car or refurbished hot rod.

Fuzzy dice are easy to make for the craft enthusiast. Materials required amount to little more than about ¼ yard of fake, white fur material, 21 small black pom-poms, a 16-inch (40.64 cm) ribbon for hanging, and some polyester fill. To start, create a cross pattern on paper measuring 16 inches (40.64 cm) for the vertical leg of the cross, and 12 inches (30.48 cm) across for the crossbar. Locate the crossbar exactly 4 inches (10.16 cm) down from the top of the cross. Both legs should be 4 inches (10.16 cm) in width. Cut out the cross, then place it down on the backside of the material and snip out the pattern.

When the vertical leg is folded in on itself at 4-inch (10.16 cm) intervals, this pattern forms a hollow box. The top of the cross is the "lid," while the crossbar "flaps" on either side fold up to form the sides. Pin the box together, then sew it by hand or machine, leaving the lid partially open in one corner.

You can stuff the fuzzy dice with polyester fill to the firmness desired and loop the ribbon to form the hanger, sewing the open end into the inside top corner of the fuzzy dice. Now sew the lid closed. All that's left is to stitch the pom-poms to the outside to form the dots on the fuzzy dice.

If you aren't keen on making your own fuzzy dice, they are widely available at automotive shops and novelty shops, and from online vendors. Be aware that large fuzzy dice might not be legal to hang from a rear-view mirror if they block the driver's field of vision. Though unlikely, this could result in a ticket or even an accident. It might be best to remove fuzzy dice while driving.