There are a lot of great things about making yo-yo's and now it is easier than ever to make a lot of them. For a quick introduction on what yo-yo's are and to learn the traditional method of making yo-yo's, see the Quilting site at About.com.
The fast and easy method is to use a yo-yo maker. I use a 45mm size maker by Clover. The makers come in various sizes and shapes, including hearts and flowers. Each yo-yo took me approximately 5 minutes to complete (after making a few practice ones).
To make the yo-yo's:
- Cut a scrap of fabric larger than your yo-yo maker. I keep the scraps at least one inch larger than the maker at the smallest point.
- Place the fabric face-down onto the base of the maker.
- Put the disc part of the maker on top of the fabric and then snap it into place. Make sure that you properly align the disc and the plate.
- Trim the fabric leaving a 1/4" - 1/2" seam allowance.
- Fold the seam allowance toward the center of the disc and insert your threaded needle into the starting point on the disc side.
- Push the needle all the way through to the base side of the maker.
- Bring the needle up by pushing it through the notch on the base side up and then through to the disc side.
- Continue doing this all the way around the maker.
TIP: Do not sew outside of the holes in the maker. - Push the maker apart, and gently remove the fabric from the disc.
- Pull your needle and thread to gather the yo-yo.
TIP: Shape the yo-yo as you pull.
TIP: Pull gently so you do not break the thread. - Knot the thread and cut it.
Yo-yo's are a perfect way to use up some of your small squares of leftover fabric. You can make up the yo-yo's from leftover fabric when you complete a project. Each time you finish a project, add to your yo-yo stash. Before you know it you will have enough to make a blanket, toy animal, or wall-hanging. Check out Yo-Yo Cat & Mouse Pattern By Indygo Junction.
Pick one up and give it a try. I'd love to see some of your creations!
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