Yo-yos by the Hoopful

Pin It

Threads Magazine, editor

12 users recommend

Here is a fast way to machine-embroider yo-yo circles in multiples instead of hand basting around each circle individually.

Here is a fast way to machine-embroider yo-yo circles in multiples instead of hand basting around each circle individually.

Add Comment
Print

by Jennifer Stern
from Threads #137, pp. 26-27

Making traditional fabric yo-yos by hand is a time-consuming process: you cut circles from fabric, hand-baste around their edges, and then gather them into perfect little round pillows with neatly finished holes in their centers. Here’s a fast way to machine-embroider yo-yo circles in multiples instead of hand basting around each circle individually.

Machine-embroidered straight stitches don’t gather as easily as hand-basted running stitches do. But a second concentric circle of short stitches made on your embroidery machine just outside the seam allowance of the longer gathering stitches makes it easy to gather the circle while also neatly finishing the opening.

You can easily create your own custom-sized yo-yos with digitizing embroidery software. Simply choose the automatic circle-drawing tool, and create an outline circle twice the diameter of the finished yo-yo you want to make. Using the copy/paste feature, create a second circle. Make it 1/8 inch larger in diameter, and center it around the first circle. Choose a 12mm stitch for the inner circle so that it will gather easily when the bobbin thread is pulled. Made with shorter stitches, the larger circle gives the seam allowance some weight and encourages it to turn under as the bobbin thread is pulled tight.

Use silk chiffon, silk charmeuse, or lightweight cottons to make yo-yos. The sheer fabric is easy to gather and creates lighter yo-yos. The yo-yos made from cotton fabric have neat, well-defined holes. After you’ve stitched a few hoopfuls, use them to embellish your favorite summer project.

Add Comment Print

Not Your Ordinary T-Shirt

Make a Quick Summer Wrap

Comments (2)

KathleenSews writes: To make pressing the 1/4" seam allowance easier, cut a piece of very lightweight cardboard or heat-resistant template material, such as Templar, the size of the finished circle. Lay the circle template against the wrong side of the yo-yo circle and pull the gathering threads. The seam allowance will fold itself against the template for you to press. Remove the template and continue per directions above.
Posted: 8:53 am on September 6th

nakpunar writes: Yo-Yo's great for all kind decoration. If you don't have time you can buy ready to use Yo-Yo's. This Lady http://www.iloveyoyo.etsy.com also sew customize Yo-Yo's.
Posted: 10:03 am on February 6th

You must be logged in to post comments. Click here to login.