How to Make a Fabric "Yo Yo"

Co-authored by Lois Wade

Last Updated: September 6, 2020

Ever wonder how grandma made those cool/interesting gathered circles? You can copy and improve upon that idea with the right materials and a little planning.

Steps

1
Obtain fabric. Loose weave works easiest, but this can be done with nearly any fabric (avoid thicker fabrics at first).
2
Create or purchase a template. You can make your own template from a margarine tub lid or cardboard from a cereal box.
3
Place your fabric on the round template.
4
Sew a "running stitch" evenly around the outside edge of the circle.
5
Gather the fabric by pulling gently on the thread while tucking the raw edges inside the pouch that is created.
6
Knot the thread tightly closed.
7
Connect multiple yoyo's into patterns, or use singly as flowers in an applique.