Clover Yo-Yo Maker Large

When we talk about yo-yos in quilting and patchwork, we're not talking about the classic toy we all know. A yo-yo in quilting is (usually) circular pieces of fabric that are ripped around the edge and then pulled together into a flat circular loop. This quilting technique became popular in the 1920s and its popularity lasted right up to the 1940s. Yo-yos were sewn together by stitching them together on four edges to make beautiful bedspreads or decorations.

Here's a clever yo-yo maker from Clover in size Large.

How to make a yo-yo?

• Place your yo-yo maker on the right side of the fabric and trace with a pencil or tailor's chalk. Leave about 1.5 cm between each circle.
• Cut out the circles with about 0.5 cm seam allowance.
• Thread a needle with sewing thread (preferably quilting thread, which is more durable than regular cotton thread). If you are using regular thread, use two strands.
• Tie a knot at the end of the thread and pass the needle through the fabric from the wrong side while folding the circle down along the line. The needle and thread will go through both layers of fabric, creating a seam allowance.
• Continue all the way around, folding the seam allowance down. When you get back to the start, gently pull the thread to pull it into a loop. Leave a hole in the center of the yo-yo.
• Weave the thread properly and finish with a knot for extra security. Cut off the long strands, tie a new knot and make another yo-yo.