I have two of the most cuddly ferrets you would want.  How I did it was
that I'd pick them up and walk w/ them in one arm, w/ the other petting,
messaging, and giving treats.  I find that feel that keeping on your feet
helps this process.  Sitting gives them too many tantilizing escape routes!
Keep the session brief.
 
If you have ferrets that tend to be over-anxious when they take treats
(both mine did at first) make sure you offer them in a flat palm so they
know what is the treat!
 
Put ferretone on your nose or cheek to encourage kisses...same w/ your
hand.
 
If they struggle to be let down don't give in immediately.  Continue to
hold them.  They need to know they can't just always have their way.  If
they stop struggling for 5 sec.  (at first) reward them by putting them
down.  Extend the time gradually.
 
Mine seem to like to lay in my left arm like a baby.  With my right hand I
message there cheeks, ears, and necks.  Make it worth their while to be
there.  But remember, they need to be down playing for a chunk of time.
 
Oh, I almost forgot one of the things that I did that probably helped
enormously.  I'd let them get really tired playing, I'd put them to bed,
then, when they were really zonked out I'd take them back out of the cage
very qently, sit or lay down w/ them nestled against my chest.  I think
the warmth and the rhythm of my heart appeals.
 
Good luck! I'm sure in time you'll have fuzzies who crawl into your arms to
take naps just like my Amadeus does!
 
Pat
Tess (hey, don't forget, I'm a lap dog, too!)
Shiloh (ooh, that's the spot! please please please don't stop!)
Amadeus (mom, drop everything, I'm tired. I wanna' nap!)
[Posted in FML issue 2549]