I've looked and looked and dont seem find any tutorials....would like something like any of the ones below. Maybe ideas on how the body effect  (fur?) is achieved would alteast help.  

https://img0.etsystatic.com/020/0/6418210/il_570xN.578517078_fto3.jpg

https://img1.etsystatic.com/000/0/5910173/il_570xN.229081041.jpg

https://img1.etsystatic.com/060/0/5910173/il_570xN.762054159_610u.jpg

Thanks :)

Anyone? :)

You can snip the fondant with a small pair of scissors.  Look up some tree tutorials and they will show you how.

Or, Laura from Krazy Kool Cakes has a tutorial on her youtube channel on how to make and elmo topper.  She used a certain piping tip to make the fur.  You can try that as well.

Hth :)

Thanks @jinkies! Ended up using the Elmo body way!  She turned out quite cute!

Wow, came out adorable!  Great job!!