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How to Make a Yo Yo

Last Updated: March 5, 2023 Tested

This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff . Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. The wikiHow Video Team also followed the article's instructions and verified that they work. This article has been viewed 238,458 times. Learn more...

Creating your own yo-yo is a fun, simple project. The easiest way to make this classic, entertaining toy is with a pair of bottle caps. Join the caps with a small screw, tie on a string, then add character with unique decorations. For a slightly more complex project, try making a wooden yo-yo. Whichever method you choose, have fun crafting your yo-yo, and enjoy learning cool new tricks with it!

Making a Yo-yo with Bottle Caps

Step 1 Make holes in the centers of 2 bottle caps.

  • After drilling the hole, turn the screw counterclockwise to remove it from the first bottle cap. Then repeat the steps on the second cap.
  • The towel or wood will keep the screw from scratching your tabletop.

Variation: If you’re using metal bottle caps, punch a hole in the center using an awl or metal hole punch pliers. [2] X Research source

  • The screw’s point should be coming out of the flat top of the bottle cap.
  • Note that your screw needs to be long enough to hold the spacer with at least 1 in (2.5 cm) of length leftover to secure the bottle caps. A 1   1 ⁄ 2  in (3.8 cm) screw should do the trick.
  • A bearing makes it easier for the yo-yo to spin, but you can skip this step if you don’t have a spacer that fits your screw.
  • If you’re making your own string, cut it so it’s about the length between your belly button and the floor.
  • Tie the string right onto the screw if you’re not using a spacer.
  • Drive the screw through the caps tightly enough to hold them in place, but make sure the spacer can still rotate.
  • Once you’ve finished making the yo-yo’s main structure, it’s time to personalize it with unique decorations.

Decorating a Bottle Cap Yo-Yo

  • Running a metal putty knife over the surface can help you level the glue with the caps' rims. To remove glue from the knife, allow it dry completely, peel it off, then wipe away residue with rubbing alcohol.
  • The extra weight of the glue will help the yo-yo work better.

Safety precaution: Never touch the tip of a hot glue gun or freshly poured hot glue. Additionally, don't let the tip of the hot glue gun touch the plastic.

  • Repeat the steps to trace and cut out another circle. You’ll use the 2 circles to decorate the sides of the yo-yo.
  • You could use clear plastic lids or thick plastic freezer bags. Trim excess plastic after you’ve stuck the circles to the pieces. The plastic backings will help protect the cutouts from wear and tear.
  • That’s all there is to it! Enjoy your new yo-yo!

Creating a Wooden Yo-yo

  • If you don’t have a hole saw bit, trace 2   1 ⁄ 2  in (6.4 cm) circles on the plywood, then use a jigsaw to cut them out. Picture each disc as a clock, and draw lines from 12 o’clock to 6 o’clock and from 9 o’clock to 3 o’clock. Then, for each disc, drill a 1 ⁄ 4  in (0.64 cm) hole at the center, or the point where the lines intersect.
  • Wear protective goggles and use caution when working with saws and other power tools. If necessary, ask an adult to help you cut the discs.
  • You could also shape the discs by hand with sandpaper, but it'll require a little more elbow grease.

Optional: After sanding the discs, stain them or apply tung oil to protect the wood and add luster.

  • The washer should be between the head of the bolt and the disc.
  • A 1 ⁄ 4 by 1 ⁄ 4 by 1 ⁄ 2  in (0.64 by 0.64 by 1.27 cm) spacer is 1 ⁄ 4  in (0.64 cm) deep with a hole diameter of 1 ⁄ 4  in (0.64 cm) and a total diameter of 1 ⁄ 2  in (1.3 cm).
  • Take care not to over-tighten the locking nut. Practice throwing the yo-yo, and adjust the tightness until it feels comfortable, spins nicely, and returns to your hand reliably.
  • You could also decorate the sides with cutouts as you would with a bottle cap yo-yo. However, you’d need to punch a hole in the cutouts and include them under the bolt head and locking nut. Unscrew the nut and take the yo-yo apart, stick a cutout over the outside of each disc with double-sided tape, then put the yo-yo back together.

Community Q&A

Ashton Gilmore

  • Wear safety goggles and use caution when using a saw and other power tools. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1
  • If necessary, get help from an adult before using a hot glue gun, saw, or belt sander. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 1

Things You’ll Need

Making a bottle cap yo-yo.

  • 2 plastic or thin metal bottle caps
  • 1   1 ⁄ 2  in (3.8 cm) #4 screw
  • 1 ⁄ 4  in (0.64 cm) #4 nylon spacer
  • Cotton yarn or store-bought yo-yo string

Decorating a Bottle Cap Yo-yo

  • Hot glue gun and glue
  • Colorful paper or printed image or design
  • Double-sided scotch tape
  • Clear plastic lid or thick freezer bag
  • 3 ⁄ 4  in (1.9 cm) thick plywood board, at least 6 by 3 in (15.2 by 7.6 cm) in size
  • Safety goggles
  • Power drill
  • 2   1 ⁄ 2  in (6.4 cm) hole saw with 1 ⁄ 4  in (0.64 cm) pilot bit
  • Belt sander with 60-grit and 220-grit belts
  • Stain or tung oil (optional)
  • 1 ⁄ 4 by 2 in (0.64 by 5.08 cm) bolt with locking nut
  • 1 ⁄ 4  in (0.64 cm) washers (2)
  • 1 ⁄ 4 by 1 ⁄ 4 by 1 ⁄ 2  in (0.64 by 0.64 by 1.27 cm) nylon spacer
  • Store-bought yo-yo string or cotton yarn
  • Felt-tip pens or paint (optional)

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Use a Wood Lathe

  • ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uoldaHVt0s&feature=youtu.be&t=37
  • ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ju5KcdbvyQQ&feature=youtu.be&t=17
  • ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ju5KcdbvyQQ&feature=youtu.be&t=47
  • ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uoldaHVt0s&feature=youtu.be&t=98
  • ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uoldaHVt0s&feature=youtu.be&t=111
  • ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkvUo9Q4CeU&feature=youtu.be&t=51
  • ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uoldaHVt0s&feature=youtu.be&t=194
  • ↑ https://boyslife.org/hobbies-projects/projects/142533/build-a-wooden-yo-yo/

About This Article

wikiHow Staff

To make a yo-yo with bottle caps, start by making a hole in the center of 2 bottle caps using a screw and a screwdriver. Then, drive a screw through one of the holes so the pointed end is coming out of the top of the bottle cap. Next, slide a 1/4-inch nylon spacer over the pointed end of the screw to make a bearing, and tie cotton yarn or string to the bearing using a slip knot. Finally, slide the other bottle cap onto the pointed end of the screw to finish your yo-yo. To learn how to make a wooden yo-yo, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How To Make A Perfect Yo-Yo Every Time

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Lazies, It’s easy to make perfect yo-yo’s for your next sewing or quilting project. You know I love yo-yo’s. So, while I was making some recently, I put together a tutorial. Here is a step-by-step tour of using the Clover Yo-Yo Maker tools. And once you’re hooked on yo-yos, use the link below to hop over to our Yo-Yo Cutie Pins post and grab a free pattern .

how to make a paper yoyo

Subscribe to our blog so you don’t miss a juicy morsel.

Yo-Yo Maker: Each Clover Yo-Yo Maker has two parts: a disk, shown in dark yellow to the left, and a tray, shown in light yellow to the right. Place a piece of fabric between the disk and tray, snap together and go.

How to make a perfect yo yo every time

The tray and disk need to be aligned with each other on the round yo-yo makers only. Match the ridge lines on the disk to the notches at the edge of the tray. You can see a couple of details better with the disk snapped into the tray.

how to make a paper yoyo

Yo Yo Maker Details: 1. Use the hole in the center of the tray to pop the disk out when done. 2. This slightly raised ridge is the finished size (outside edge/ fold line) of the yo-yo made with this tool. Each tool has a finished-sized indicator (either a ridge, or a hole the size and shape of the yo-yo). 3. Area inside the ridge will be the back of the finished yo-yo. 4. Area between the ridge and the edge of the tray will be on the front of the finished yo-yo. See Note below. 5. Use these notches to align the disk for round yo-yo makers only.

how to make a paper yoyo

Cut a piece of fabric slightly larger than the disk. Place fabric, right side down against the tray. Place disk on top of the tray. Be sure to match the ridge lines on the disk to the notches on the tray (for round yo-yo makers only as shown in the first photo above).

how to make a paper yoyo

These little crescent shaped openings (circled above) on the tray are the stitch guides. Bring your needle up at one end of the crescent and back down through the other end of the same crescent as shown above. Catch the seam allowance in this stitching.

Note: Remember the round ridge line marked #2 on the tray in the second photo from the top? You’ll be able to see your fabric through the tray making it easy to know which part of your fabric will end up on the back (area #3 above) and the front (area #4 above) of the finished yo-yo. Use the tray to fussy-cut your fabric if desired.

how to make a paper yoyo

Fold the fabric seam allowance over the disk and pinch with your finger and thumb to secure for stitching. – With a needle and thread (knot the end or leave a tail) stitch from the disk side, through the folded seam allowance, finding the opening of the crescent on the tray and pull needle/thread through. Continue holding the seam allowance flat against the tray. – Finish the stitch by sewing through the other end of the same crescent.

how to make a paper yoyo

Work your way around the rest of the yo-yo. Pop the disk out of the tray by pushing through the hole on the tray. If you have too much seam allowance, trim the excess now. Be sure not to cut the stitching thread.

how to make a paper yoyo

Gently fold the seam allowance over the edge of the disk to remove the disk. Your project should resemble the picture above at this point.

how to make a paper yoyo

Gently pull on each end of the stitching thread to gather the fabric into a yo-yo. Gently shape the yo-yo as you go to keep the gathers in the center.

Tie the threads and feed them into the center of the yo-yo for a clean finish.

how to make a paper yoyo

The finished size of the yo-yo matches the round ridge on the tray for this tool.

Quick Yo-Yo Makers from Clover Needlecraft Inc. This is an affiliate link to Amazon.com and I will make a small commission if you buy through this link. Original Sizes: Round – Small, #8700 Round – Large, #8701

That’s Pinterest-ing! Join me on Pinterest here , remember to ‘Follow’ me there, and pin this post and pics to your Pinterest boards.

How to make a perfect yo yo every time

Free Pattern Hop over to our Yo-Yo Cutie Pins post and grab a free pattern!

how to make a paper yoyo

New to our blog? Subscribe to get emails so you don’t miss a juicy morsel. Like and share this post with your stitchy friends. Join me in the Lazy Girl community on Facebook here: Facebook Lazy Girl

Enjoy! Joan

Facebook Lazy Girl Pinterest Joan Hawley Pinterest Lazy Girl Community Instagram @JoanHawley Twitter LazyGirlJoan

Tutorial fabric is ‘Garden Party’ by Gerri Robinson of Planted Seed Designs from Troy Corporation.

Freebies Tutorials & Hacks

Tags: #LazyGirlDesigns , Clover Needlecraft , Embellishments , sewing tutorial , tutorial , Yo Yo

posted by admin on May 21, 2007 — 62 Comments »

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62 comments on “How To Make A Perfect Yo-Yo Every Time”

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Thanks so much for this tutorial! I’m so new to sewing that my machine is still sealed in the box. (And has been for months.) I’ve been reading your blog for a few weeks, and really didn’t understand how the yo-yos work, even though you’ve had great explanations. This tutorial was just what I need! The funny thing is, I don’t need my machine! Yet…

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Clover is so creative! So many neat tools to make sewing so easy. Thanks Clover. Doris

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Hi My husband had surgery today. While my mom and I were in the waiting room, another lady was making yo-yo’s using your tool. She said she got it at Joanne’s we searched, searched so I decided to look on the internet, and I found you. Yeahhhh How do I get the yo-yo makers. can i buy them from you. I hope so. Thanks, Miriam Bates [email protected] – – – – – Hi Miriam, You can find all of the Clover Yo-Yo Maker tools at their website here: http://www.clover-usa.com/cat.php?k=67640 Joan

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I just want to thank you for such an informative piece about yo yo’s. I have a whole box of old fabric yo yo’s and circles that I have been trying to finish. They have to be at least 50 years old. My friend who is a quilter too had a new book and lo and behold they had a pattern for a yo yo basket. I am slowly getting it sewed together. thank you again and I love the free patterns. Nikki Bramante

Pingback: Yo-Yo Maker Tutorial : Craft Blog

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Hi, I have heard all about these fantasic yo-yo makers and would love to purchase them. Unfortunately, as I live in England I dont seem to be able to get hold of them here. Does anyone know a company online that will ship them to England? Thanks Jayne Maill England

Pingback: Purse Patterns, Tote Bag Patterns, Quilting and Sewing Patterns from Joan Hawley of Lazy Girl Designs

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I can’t seem to find how or where to purchase this product. Also, what are the finished size of the small/large yo-yo makers? Are they available retail? Website only?

Thank you, Connie Legge

– – – – –

Try Clover’s website here: http://www.clover-usa.com/catalog/16.html

Pingback: Create A Perfect Yo-Yo Every Time · Quilting @ CraftGossip

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Hi ladies! Some of you were inquiring where to purchase these wonderful little gadgets and just wanted to let you know that we handle them–and yes, we ship worldwide. Send us an e-mail with your request and shipping address for a quote. Contact us at [email protected]

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I’ve always wondered how these gadgets were used. Thanks for the tutorial! You should do one on some of the other shapes.

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I just bought a book at this web site for yo-yo ideas. The name of the book is “Yo-Yos and Fabric Flowers” from http://www.clotilde.com/

This book might inspire you.

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These yo yo makers look like they would be a great idea. I have been using the old coffee can lid method. I think I will invest in some and see if it is as easy as it appears to be. Thanks for the great ideas.

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I have just met a lady who had a little yoyo maker and she sent to Fla. to get me one where she got hers. It is wonderful. She and I are making them as fast as we can and are looking for different ways to put our coverlets together. These little gagets are WONDERFUL!!

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I just bought one of these at AC Moore last week and can’t wait to have time to sit and make a slew of yo-yos! Thanks SO very much for your informative and easy to follow tutorial! My mind is swimming with ideas of how to add yo-yo accents to my life. Thanks again for your tutorial!

Pingback: B e n t e B’ s B l o g » Blog Archive » Søt sydd topp / Cute Tie Top

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hello, My girl friend and I were wondering how many yo yo do you need to make a quilt just with all yo yo like a twin or a king??

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I like yo-yos and I know how to do them without the tool, but I never seem to make more than two or three at a time. I tried this tool and I made like 100 all at once. Clover makes the absolute best tools and I think I’m going to buy this in every size.

Pingback: How to make yo yo's - Hip Girl Boutique Free Hair Bow Instructions--Learn how to make hairbows and hair clips, FREE!

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I am wondering where are the craft projects for the yo yo’s. Does anyone know of some new sites to visit? I am working on two quilts one is a large yo yo quilt with 899 yo yos on it and the other is goin to be a small quilt and another project is a yo yo centerpiece with my new last aneme on it. Have any ideas I would be greatly appreciative!

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Can these be made with any type of fabric? I’m thinking about gold lame or organza. The tutorial is great. Marta

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I’ve made yoyo’s for years I make my own, don’t use yoyo maker. Have made 2 king size coverlets will soon be ready to assemble the 3rd. Would like to sell them as I plan to make more, don’t quite know how to go about it. I am pretty much a shut-in with alot of time on my hands. Can anyone help me

Thanks Carol

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so much easier to make yo yos the original way… and more frugal too. we don’t need so many gadgets.

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Do you wash the fabric before making the Yo-Yo’s??

Pingback: Yo Yo's - I'm in Love! - Splitcoaststampers.com

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What a genius invention! I had no idea such a thing existed.

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I love these disk-I several different sizes always always always a perfert yo yo we even have the young (ages 8-12) girls in our church making them!!!!!!!!

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HI, I love your site, thank you, very much for your tips, and for this in special, I buy this disk in long time away but a never used because I don´t konw how…. thank you again Esther from Panama, C. A.

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Pingback: {make it} Having fun with Yo-Yos! – FabTalk - It's All About Fabric

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Where can I order the yo yo make?

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Pingback: Lazy Girl | Blog » New Pattern: Yo Yo Cutie Pins are Pin-tastic!

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Thank you Joan.

I love the tutorial you made for us. I took my yo yo makers to the hospital last year when I accompanied my sister as she waited for her husband to get his chemotherapy. I was trying to make a Santa’s head for a Christmas decoration.

Have a wonderful holiday!

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WoW! It’s perfect! Congratulations 🙂

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ilike to if there is i make yo yos and would thnlikth thetoknowifthereisawebshowingcenterpiecepatternsforthem

Pingback: Friday Finds – Yo-Yo Maker Inspiration | Clover Needlecraft

Pingback: 100 Things Every Quilter Should Do | Quilty Pleasures Blog

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I was so glad to find your site. I made yo yo’s when I was a child but that’s all I can remember about it. I got the notion to make a quilt/comforter for my bed and thought about how beautiful it would be with the yo yo’s on top of it. I’m also thinking about putting buttons on the yo yo’s if I can find my box of old buttons. I won’t buy that many buttons. Thanks so much for the Yo yo maker and how to make them. I will be looking at your site since I found it.

Pingback: Cómo hacer un yo-yo de tela reciclada | El blog de trapillo.com

Pingback: Life Is Like a Bowl of Cherries (Or Why My Five Year Old is Still Up at 9:17 PM) | chica and bubba

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I own a yo yo maker and made many years ago. Lost the directions and found your site. You say you can print these directions but I cannot find where/how you do this. Think the directions are excellent but would like a copy of my own. Please advise.

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Thank you. I have recently purchased the yo yo maker but found the instructions that came with it rather confusing. Having read yours I am now looking forward to having another go as they are much easier to follow.

Pingback: 100 Things Every Quilter Should Do in Their Lifetime | The Quilted Edge

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I am dreaming of making a king sized “yoyo” quilt while I am recovering from major back surgery. Recovery time will be at least 6-12 months and thought this would help to pass away the time. My question is: how many extra large yoyo’s will it take to make a king sized quilt. HELP! Thanks in advance for your assistance. And happy holidays to all who will be having fun making their holiday gifts… Lin

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So, you are showing the yo yo with a hole in the middle-which I think looks neater than mine cause the tighter I pull the yo to closed-it kind of puckers. It goes askew if that makes any sense

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Hi Ladies, I noticed that some of you are wondering how to use these pretty little things. I have a book called SIMPLE GRACES Charming Quilts and Companion Projects by KIM DIEHL who is always fantastic, and I am at present making a couple of her quilts, one called WELCOME WAGON YO YO QUILT, and it is gorgeous, have a ook I am sure the quilters in the group will agree.

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Very nice tutorial. Even though I had figured out how to use the gadget, the instructions on the packaging were terrible. This was a nice refresher and a great tutorial for a beginner. Thanks!

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I have been doing yo yo free hand. This would make things much easier and faster. Maybe I will get my quilt finished!

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I love making these with the Clover forms. I did find that finishing them was a little difficult so now after I have gathered and shaped them I take the needle and put it through to the back and make 2 tiny stitches to lock the thread and then bury the thread. You don’t normally see the back of a yoyo. Love them,

Me again! Another tip for making yoyos – use single strand hand quilting thread. It’s light weight but very strong. No more breaking thread when pulling to gather. I love yoyos!

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Hi , i want purchase a yo yo maker the original size numbers : 8700, 8701, 8702, 8703 ,you can help me? I live in Brazil. Excuse my poor english. tanks.

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Hello, I have these yoyo disks in several sizes and I love them., so easy to make. Great for using up extras quilt squares and of course fabric scraps. I sew small scraps together like a little random quilt and make yoyo.. Very nice tutorial.

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I am so excited to try this YoYo Christmas ornament. Thank You 

There’s a Little Lazy in All of Us!

As the Original Lazy Girl, Joan Hawley always found the easy and fun way to a successful project. A self-described geek and armchair engineer, Joan loved creating new twists and techniques for sewing and quilting.

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Treasurie

How to Make Fabric Yo Yos | FREE Templates & Pattern

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Learn how to make fabric yo yos or Suffolk puffs in 5 easy steps. If you are looking for decorating ideas for your girl's dress sewing patterns then DIY fabric yo yos are fast and easy to make. Best of all you can use up some of your favorite fabrics from your scrap pile!

how to make a paper yoyo

How to Make Fabric Yo Yos Tutorial

What are fabric yo yos.

Yo yos from fabric are cut from circles of fabric that have been hand-gathered around the edges and pulled tight to form a puffy textured shape that looks like a flower.

They are often decorated with different button types and can be used to decorate clothing, make hair clips and brooches. They can also be sewn together to create interesting blankets, coverlets, mats and even a yo-yo quilt.

how to make a fabric yo-yo

Supplies for Making Fabric Yo-Yos

  • Cotton fabric
  • Hand sewing needle
  • Strong thread like a hand quilting thread
  • Buttons to decorate

What are the Best Fabrics for Fabric Yo Yos?

Make your fabric yo-yo flowers from your favorite scrap fabrics. Quilting cotton works especially well. You will find you get the best results with light to medium-weight fabrics as they are easier to gather.

Thin vs Thick Fabrics: Thin fabric will result in a flatter flower with smaller gathers. Thick fabric will result in a puffier flower with larger gathers.

How to Make Fabric Yo Yos - Video

Here is a video I made for you on how to make fabric yo yos . Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for weekly sewing and craft videos.

How to Make Fabric Yo Yos Step By Step

Step 1 - make fabric circle template, make your own fabric yo yo template.

In order to make fabric yo yos, you need a circle template to draw around. You can use any circular objects from around the house, like a jar lid, cups, small saucers, or lids. Generally, your fabric yoyo will end up half the size of the circle you draw.

You can buy yo you makers with set sizes but really I don't think they are much quicker than making or printing a perfect circle.

Free Printable Template

Alternatively, download my pattern here for your fabric yo yo flowers template . A new window will open with the PDF file, which you can print. Further Reading: How to Print PDF Patterns

The size of your finished yo-yo will vary slightly from these sizes depending on how small the hole at the center of the yo-yo ends up.

Step 2 - Cut the Template

Cut out the template in your desired size and trace around it on the WRONG side of your fabric with a tailor's chalk or removable fabric pen or markers. Cut out your circle. Further Reading: Marking Tools for Sewing

How to Make Fabric Yo Yos

Step 3 - Stitch Around the Edge

Thread your needle with the thread doubled over and knot the end. Remember, it is important you use a thick thread.

Further Reading:

  • How to thread a needle
  • How to use a needle threader

Try and make your knot as large as possible so it doesn’t pull through. With the fabric WRONG side up, start folding over the raw edge by ¼ inch (6mm).

Use a running stitch (simple up and down) to sew around the circle on top of the folded edge. Try and stitch as close as possible to the outside folded edge.

How to Make Fabric Yo Yos

TIPS for How to Make Fabric Yo Yos: Before you start stitching think about the effect you want. Long stitches will mean you can pull the center of the yo-yo tighter and there will only be a small gap. Smaller stitches will result in a larger gap in the center. This can be great if you have a domed button you would like to sit in the center.  It will also mean your flower size ends up slightly larger due to the gap in the center.

Step 4 - Pull the Thread

Keep stitching all the way around your circle until you reach the end. Don’t worry if the folded edge is not perfect, as you won’t see it once the yo-yo is gathered. Don’t cut the thread.

How to Make Fabric Yo Yos

With the thread still attached, gently pull so the circle starts to gather. Keep pulling until the fabric all meets in the middle. Knot off and cut your thread.

How to Make Fabric Yo Yos

Step 5 - Flatten and Decorate

Flatten your fabric yo yo flowers and pull them into a symmetrical shape.

How to Make Fabric Yo Yos

Fabric Yo Yos - Decorating Ideas

Add a button or bead to the center of the fabric flower. This can be stitched on or glued with a hot glue gun. Glue is an easy option if you don't plan on washing your fabric yo yos.

How to Make Fabric Yo Yos

This is the headband sewing pattern  with the flowers sewn on the side.

flower headband sewing pattern

Other ideas to use your fabric yo yos flowers template include dresses, hair clips, and cushions. See my tutorial on how to make hair clips for some ideas.

What are you planning on using your fabric yo-yo's for?

how to make fabric yo yos

How to Make Fabric Yo Yos

  • Hand Sewing Needle

Instructions

How to Make Fabric Yo Yos

More Flower Tutorials

Now you know how to make fabric yo yos, here are more flowers you can make from fabric.

  • DIY Fabric Flowers
  • Cloth Flower Making

diy fabric flowers

More Scrap Fabric Ideas

  • How to make a fabric bow
  • How to make a scrunchie
  • Diy fabric mousepad
  • How to make a doll pillow
  • How to make bunting
  • DIY fabric flowers

More Free Sewing Patterns & Tutorials

DIY Sleep Mask

Reader Interactions

December 31, 2023 at 11:29 am

What I do after tying off the gathers is to slide threaded needle under hole and out through edge of yoyo... Leaving enough thread to use for stitching yoyos together or unto something else.

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How to Sew a Basic Fabric Yo-Yo

Although they share the same name as a child's toy, fabric yo-yos aren't playthings at all—but they are great ways to use up fabric scraps to make adornments for a variety of projects. Any light- to medium-weight fabric, even old clothing, is appropriate for making yo-yos. However, avoid heavy fabric, which can bunch up during the gathering process and stop the yo-yo from laying out smoothly.

What You'll Need

Equipment / tools.

  • A circle template, such as a glass, plate, or embroidery hoop
  • Tailor's chalk or quilting pencil
  • Hand-sewing needles
  • Light- to medium-weight fabric
  • Strong thread

Instructions

Cut out the yo-yos.

With your fabric laid out smooth and wrinkle-free, trace around the edge of your template. To cut multiple circles at a time, pin the center of the circle, keeping the fabric flat and smooth. Cut the circles out following the circle that is marked on the fabric. Be sure to keep the fabric aligned if you are cutting more than one at a time.

Start Sewing the Yo-Yo

Thread a hand-sewing needle and knot one thread, leaving a tail after the knot . Working with the wrong side of the fabric toward you, gently turn under approximately 1/8- to 1/4-inch of the edge of the circle.

Insert the needle in the edge of the fabric on the wrong side, so the knot will be inside the yo-yo. Sew a running stitch around the edge of the circle, turning the edge as you sew, stopping when you reach where you started.

Gather the Circle

Holding the needle thread, pull the thread to gather the circle. Tuck the turned edge into the center, keeping the right side of the fabric out as you gather the circle. Gather until you have an almost-closed circle.

Use the gathering thread and the knot-tail to knot the thread multiple times. Trim the threads close to the knots. Finger press the yo-yo flat with the "hole" in the center. Join yo-yos together in any desired pattern.

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Homemade Wooden Yo-Yo

license

Introduction: Homemade Wooden Yo-Yo

Homemade Wooden Yo-Yo

So I figured ou t recently that nobody had posted any make your own yo yo (from scratch). All there is on yo yo's is how to change cheap plastic ones into not as cheap plastic ones that sleep. So I decided to make my own and here it is! This yo yo is made of 3/4 inch birch plywood and can sleep for about 5 seconds and then dies (this is because of my lack of supplies or in other words i just didn't have a bearing to make it spin) it works well and costs less then ten bucks so thats a plus. Hope this helps you guys out!

Step 1: Supplies/Materials

Supplies/Materials

1) 3/4 inch peice of wood (I used plywood) 2) A drill press 3) A a 2 1/4 inch bore i think is what  it is called with a drill bit in the center to get the axel centered (or pick your size) 4) A 2 inch bolt and locking nut (mine is a 1/4 inch bolt and nut) 5) Some sort of spacer for the center (a bearing is perfect but if you don't have one like i don't then a nylon fastener or the little blue spacers in k-nex sets work perfectly. 6) Yo-yo string (LeumasYrrep has a good instructable on this if you want homemade) 7) A sander, sand paper, or file to smooth edges (belt sanders work marvelously) 8) Two washers to go on the outside of the yo yo for stability

Step 2: Cutting the Circles

Cutting the Circles

You need to attatch the bore to the drill press and just cut two circles out of the wood like in the picture. The wood will probably burn because of the hardness but thats no problem just go slow.

Step 3: Smooth Out the Circles

Smooth Out the Circles

Here you are going to need to smooth out the circles using a file or sand paper or something. This is also where you choose which side is going to be facing in where the string is and which out. I picked the side with the prettier grain to be the outside. Now on the inside you need to round the edges off at more of an angle to that the string has kind of a rail to be fed into the center if it gets off balanced. Make sure there are no rough edges or splinter that could catch the string. (On previous models i have sprayed the yo yo with laquer to give a slicker, smoother surface for the string to rub against and it makes it shiney. But I like the natural wood feel)

Step 4: Putting the Bolt Through (part 1)

Putting the Bolt Through (part 1)

This is a really easy step and it involves putting the bolt throught the washer and one circle. Put the washer on the outside part and then put the bearing or spacer in on the bolt on the inside. Really easy the pictures say all.

Step 5: String It

String It

Now you need to attatch the string to the spacer or bearing. Not too difficult.

Step 6: Putting the Bolt Through (part 2)

Putting the Bolt Through (part 2)

And the last part. You must put the other circle on now. Easy. Just make sure that the side you chose to be the inside is on the inside. Then put the washer around the little remaining bolt and screw on the nut. Do not make the nut and bolt too tight or else the spacer or bearing will dig into the wood and pinch the string. And now you are done. Go out and yo yo it up yo!!! As you use it it will self ballance itself so you don't have to worry about ballance which is a plus. And as I said before it will only sleep for about 5 seconds before it spins out unless you have a bearing or a really slick spacer.

Woodworking Challenge

Participated in the Woodworking Challenge

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IMAGES

  1. How to make paper yoyo

    how to make a paper yoyo

  2. Create a yoyo from paper plates, a cardboard tube (cut in half) and

    how to make a paper yoyo

  3. How To Make YoYo From Cardboard || Diy At Home

    how to make a paper yoyo

  4. How To Make A Perfect Yo-Yo Every Time

    how to make a paper yoyo

  5. HowTo Make A Yo-Yo Easy Way of Simple DIY Toy YoYo

    how to make a paper yoyo

  6. How To Make A Paper YoYo That Works

    how to make a paper yoyo

VIDEO

  1. How do you make a YOYO??

  2. News paper yoyo making , how to make 100% working newspaper , Best newspaper spinning toy

  3. How To Make YoYo With Soda Cans

  4. How to make a yoyo? #batang90s

  5. How To Make A yo yo At home very Easy DIy 😱😱😎😎

  6. paper Yoyo Very easy

COMMENTS

  1. Paper YoYo : 5 Steps

    Step 1: Materials & Tool Materials 1) 1/4 inch Dowel - 12 inches Long 2) Wrapping Paper - 6 feet Long by 5 to 7 inches Wide Tool Glue stick Skill Level Easy Time to Complete 7 - 10 minutes Step 2: Add Glue 1) Turn the Paper over so that the plain side is facing up and 2) Put some Glue on the edge at one end. Step 3: Add Dowel

  2. How to Make Paper Yoyo

    How to Make Paper Yoyo | DIY Paper Yoyo - YouTube 0:00 / 4:37 How to Make Paper Yoyo | DIY Paper Yoyo sir Cactus 36.5K subscribers Subscribe Subscribed 10K views 1 year ago...

  3. How To Make A Yo-Yo

    0:00 / 5:19 In this video I show how to make DIY Yo-yo - really relaxable antistress toy! My way to make a yoyo is really easy - you'll need just 2 plastic bottle caps, ...

  4. 3 Ways to Make a Yo Yo

    Method 1 Making a Yo-yo with Bottle Caps Download Article 1 Make holes in the centers of 2 bottle caps. Place a thick, folded towel or a piece of scrap wood on a tabletop. Set a bottle cap flat-side-down on the towel or wood, then place a 1 1⁄2 in (3.8 cm) #4 (3 mm) pointed screw in the center of the cap.

  5. How to make a Yoyo using paper in easy way

    Like, share and subscribe if you like this video.Background music - Elecktronomia Sky High [NCS]Link - https://youtu.be/TW9d8vYrVFQ

  6. Chinese Paper Yo Yo · How To Make A Toy

    Step 1 Cut the dowel down to 9" long with the saw. If you're using a straw you can obviously just use scissors. Step 2 Cut out a piece of wrapping paper 7' long by 4" wide. Step 3 Tape the wrapping paper to the dowel/straw. Step 4 Wrap the paper around the dowel/straw continuously. Step 5

  7. Make a paper YoYo

    Make a paper YoYo This is a quick and easy way to make a paper YoYo. Step 1: Lay three papers of about 6x6 inches on top of each other. Step 6: All eight sides are the same length. Step 5: Fold over these four lines. Step 2: Prefold in half over these two lines Step 4: Fold the corners to the center. Step 3: Fold the corners to the center.

  8. Paper Yo-Yo : 4 Steps

    Step 1: The Paper Part Fold the A4 paper the long way into thirds. Cut along those lines so you have three strips of paper. Then do that for the rest of your paper. Use the tape to tape all the small sides together so you have an extremely long strip of paper. Step 2: The Straw Part

  9. Fabric Yo-Yo Tutorial with Free Printable Templates

    Hot glue To begin, download and print the yo-yo size templates onto the white cardstock, and cut the templates out. Note: If you wish to make a fabric yo-yo of a size not available in the printable templates, cut a circle that is twice the measurement desired for the finished yo-yo PLUS 1/2″ for seam allowance.

  10. Learn How to Make a Yo-Yo Quilt

    Leave about 1/2" between circles. Cut out circles about 1/4" past the line. Thread a hand sewing needle with hand quilting thread, which is sturdier than typical thread. If you use regular thread, sew with two strands. Knot the end of the thread and bring it up from the reverse side while folding under the circle on the line.

  11. How To Make A Perfect Yo-Yo Every Time

    How To Make A Perfect Yo-Yo Every Time by admin — 62 Comments » Lazies, It's easy to make perfect yo-yo's for your next sewing or quilting project. You know I love yo-yo's. So, while I was making some recently, I put together a tutorial. Here is a step-by-step tour of using the Clover Yo-Yo Maker tools.

  12. How to Make Fabric Yo Yos

    Step 1 - Make Fabric Circle Template Make Your Own Fabric Yo Yo Template In order to make fabric yo yos, you need a circle template to draw around. You can use any circular objects from around the house, like a jar lid, cups, small saucers, or lids. Generally, your fabric yoyo will end up half the size of the circle you draw.

  13. How to make paper yoyo

    In This video i Explain you in detail how to make yo-yo with paper,Basic Item required for Yo-yo :-1- color paper2- gum stick3- scale,scissorall other thing...

  14. How to Sew a Basic Fabric Yo-Yo

    Instructions Cut Out the Yo-Yos With your fabric laid out smooth and wrinkle-free, trace around the edge of your template. To cut multiple circles at a time, pin the center of the circle, keeping the fabric flat and smooth. Cut the circles out following the circle that is marked on the fabric.

  15. How to Make Fabric Yo-yos (And What to Do With Them)

    2. Using a sharp needle and a knotted length of thread, turn under ¼" of the raw edge and sew even running stitches around the perimeter of the circle. (The stitches run in and out through both layers of fabric without overlapping.) Longer/larger stitches will make a smaller opening.

  16. How to Make a Great Yoyo : 9 Steps

    Who needs to buy a yoyo when you can make your own? I will show you how to make a great yoyo with things around the house or office, it is also very cheap and very easy to make. here is a video on my yoyo. Step 1: You Will Need:

  17. Easy Peasy Yo-Yo Bookmark Clips

    Easy peasy yo yo bookmark clips. Create adorable bookmarks by making fabric yo yo's and attaching them to paper clips. Kids will love this easy craft. Hi, everyone! Amy from Positively Splendid here, and I am so happy to be back at Jen's place to share a super quick and easy craft idea! Easy Peasy Yo Yo Bookmark Clips

  18. How To Make YoYo From Cardboard || Diy At Home

    How To Make YoYo From Cardboard || Diy At Home#DIY #CARDBOARD #CREATORGUY #YOYO

  19. How To Make Easy Fabric Yoyo Flowers

    Directions: Make a template on the cardstock for the desired size. When making your yo-yo pattern, keep in mind that it needs to be twice as wide as your intended yo-yo, plus about 1/2″ for seam allowances. Using the fabric marker, trace the template onto the wrong side of a scrap of fabric. Cut your circle out using scissors or shears.

  20. Heart-Shaped Fabric Yo Yo Tutorial

    Shape the yo-yo to resemble a heart shape by pulling the edge gently, and position the gathered stitch in the middle close to the top indent. Cut the ribbon 3" long, then seal the ribbon cutting edge with a lighter to prevent fraying. Fold the ribbon in half, and put it between a button and fabric in the middle.

  21. Homemade Wooden Yo-Yo : 6 Steps

    Step 1: Supplies/Materials 1) 3/4 inch peice of wood (I used plywood) 2) A drill press 3) A a 2 1/4 inch bore i think is what it is called with a drill bit in the center to get the axel centered (or pick your size) 4) A 2 inch bolt and locking nut (mine is a 1/4 inch bolt and nut)

  22. DIY HOW TO MAKE YOYO

    Please watch: "DIY DUMBBELLS FOR FITNESS AT HOME" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LisjarPN0yY --~--SUBSCRIBE HERE! IT'S FREE!! - http://goo.gl/8VQ6lD#TeamNew...

  23. Official K.C.Bonker's on Instagram: "TOYOLOGY 101 "All toys are

    65 likes, 1 comments - kcbonker on February 15, 2024: "TOYOLOGY 101 "All toys are educational. If you play with a toy you'll learn something. You may ev..."

  24. YoYo's Arts & Crafts Time: Paper Airplanes

    125K 49M views 3 years ago It's YoYo's Arts and Crafts Time! 🎨 Join the fun with YoYo and special guest, JJ, as she teaches you how to make paper airplanes! ️ Subscribe for new videos...