Shoppers Rule Blog

Fabric Yo-Yo’s have been around forever. But this embellishment is way more than an old-fashioned has-been. This versatile little ring is popping up on quilts, table toppers, shirts, skirts, even shoes! They are great for three-dimensional cards, crafts and wall-art.

Making a yo-yo is fairly simple. You can start by either buying a pattern – Clover has a number of inexpensive templates – or by making your own using a compass or bowl to trace onto heavy cardstock.

The main advantage of a template is the consistency that it ensures. Not only do you need to consider the size/shape of the fabric, but also the stitch length. Shorter stitches create a larger, more open centered yo-yo. Longer stitches make for a tighter yo-yo center. The grooves on a template ensure consistent stitches, therefore consistent looking yo-yos.

Technique: Stitch a ¼” seam around the entire perimeter of the fabric circle. Then, gently pull the thread until the edges gather to the center. Make a couple of stitches to secure the gathers. Tie off and trim thread ends. Flatten.  That’s all there is to it!

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For ideas using yo-yos, try the Yo-Yo Fashions Book # 4590 or for seasonal ideas, try the Yuletide Yo-Yo’s pattern #9487 or ornament pattern #qri-93-2908.

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Clover Yo-Yo Makers:

CL8702 Extra Small Round (3/4″ yo-yo)

CL8707 Large (1 3/4″) Flower Shaped Yo-Yo Maker.