How to Sew Fabric Yo-yos

Yo-yos are small, gathered circles of fabric that are used to embellish clothing, home decor, gifts, pillows and scrapbooking project. When selecting a circle template, remember the circle will become about half the original size when you make it into a yo-yo. For example, a 1 ½-inch circle makes a ¾-inch finished yo-yo and a 3-inch circle makes a 1 ½-inch finished yo-yo.

Things You'll Need

• Circle template
• Scissors
• Fabric scraps
• Needle
• Strong sewing or quilting thread

Instructions

1. Trace around your circle template on the "wrong" side of your fabric.

2. Cut out the fabric circles.

3. Thread your needle and tie a knot at the end of the thread. With the "wrong" side of the fabric facing up, turn over ¼ inch of fabric toward the center. Push your needle up through the wrong side of this little bit of turned fabric so the knot is in the fold.

4. Work a running stitch around the circle, turning the fabric over ¼ inch as you go. Try to make your stitches about ¼ inch apart.

5. Sew all the way around the circle. The yo-yo will start to curl up a bit.

6. Hold the fabric circle at the knotted end of your thread and pull the needle firmly to gather up the stitches. Your flat circle will bunch up and become a 3D yo-yo. Make a couple little stitches where the thread comes out to secure your yo-yo in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Fabric yo-yos can be made from many fabrics, such as cottons, silks and lighter weight wool.

• Make a variety of yo-yos in advance so they are ready when you want them for a project.

• Sewing yo-yos can become addictive

References

• Fabric Jewelry: 25 Designs to Make Using Silk, Ribbon, Buttons, and Beads; Teresa Searle