How to Make Fabric Yo-Yos

This year I vow to work on small manageable projects, and a yo-yo is just the thing to kick start this new found philosophy. Yo-yos are both fun and easy to make, and another way to use up those fabric scraps. You can take this fun to make craft project with you where you go, as it is easily portable in your sewing/craft bag. Fabric yo-yos were once joined to make coverlets for the bed, and recently I have seen these small fabric wonders adorning decorative throw pillows in popular magazines. I say in 2008 we yo-yo!

How to Make a Yo-Yo

Trace a pattern for the yo-yo twice the size of the finished yo-yo. Add ½ inch seam allowance. I have used a coffee mug or saucer to trace the pattern. Anything will do. Use a sturdy (but not too thick) material to trace your pattern on. A thin cardboard works well.

• Cut out your yo-yo pattern
• Trace the yo-yo pattern onto the wrong side of the fabric.
• Cut out the fabric circle.
• Fold under about a 1/2 inch of the raw fabric edge-right side towards wrong-and stitch a running stitch close to the folded edge.
• Once completely around the circle-pull the thread until your circle puckers- fasten off. Flatten your yo-yo

You are done! I told you it was easy and fun!

How to Join Yo-Yos

Place all the yo-yos facing the same side up. Arrange in the desired design or placement for the project at hand. Join yo-yos together with three or four small stitches.　

Project Ideas

• Pillow
• Throw pillow embellishment
• Bedspread
• Table runner
• Vest
• Book marker
• Wreath
• Embellishments for other craft projects

I found another fun yo-yo pattern on the internet the other day- heart shaped yo-yo! Have fun:

http://pennysanford.typepad.com/penny_sanford_porcelains_/2007/02/pattern_for_hea.html