This is the perfect introduction to simple sewing. The yo-yos are made from scraps of patterned fabric, stitched onto a shop-bought cover to create an inexpensive but very decorative cushion. If you’re making a cushion in a different size, remember that the finished yo-yos will be about half the size of the original circle. It’s also best to make all the yo-yos from the same weight of fabric; lightweight dress cotton is ideal.
Rosettes: 5 minutes each
Whole project: 4 hours
1. Using a compass, draw a circle 12 cm/4¾ in. in diameter on paper. Cut out and pin the template onto your fabric. Cut out 36 circles from a variety of fabrics. Turn over about 5 mm/¼ in. to the wrong side and press all the way around.
2. Work a line of running stitches around each circle close to the fold. Pull the thread to gather and secure with a few stitches.
3. Arrange the rosettes on your work surface in six rows of six, making sure that no two rosettes of the same fabric are next to one another. Stitch each row together with a few small stitches, and then stitch the six rows together in the same way to form a panel.
4. Lay the panel on the front of the cushion cover and hand stitch it in place by working a few stitches at the widest point of each rosette and a few stitches around the inner edges to hold everything securely in place.
