Addictive Yo-Yo's

These little puffy circles are called yo-yo's. To the best of my knowledge, and research, they originated in the 1930's. During the depression, every scrap of fabric was used for something. They can be connected together to make placemats, pillow covers, and even whole quilts. Sometimes they are strung together to make dolls and used as embellishment on everything from purses, hats, gloves, and clothing to just about anything you can stick them on. Once you start making them, they are addictive.

To make a yo-yo, cut a circle twice the width you want your finished piece to be, plus 1/4 inch for hemming. Trace around a glass or whatever you are using to make your circle on the back side of the fabric so your line won't show. Example: If you want a two inch yo-yo, as you see on this t-shirt, cut circles that are 4 1/4" wide. Turn under 1/4" and hand stitch with a running stitch around the circle to hold it down. When you get all the way around, pull the thread tight. The fabric will gather into a small circle. Tie your thread and flatten the fabric into a gathered circle. You can leave them as is or sew them down with a button in the center for added effect.

Be forewarned: Once you start Yo-Yoing, it's hard to stop!