How TO
SEW POM-POMS

Similar to tassels, page 164, pom-poms bring welcome bursts of color and soft texture to apparel and home décor, without too much extra effort. A clever little tool assists in putting all those yarn remnants to use in embellishing everything from hats (see page 166) and mittens to curtains, throws, and pillows.

Supplies

  • Pom-pom maker (such as by Clover)
  • Yarn
  • Sewing scissors
  • Sewing supplies
  • Upholstery needle (optional)

how to make pom-poms

  1. 1. Open up arms on both sides of center body of pom-pom maker. Holding one end of yarn against side of arm, begin wrapping yarn around the half-moon shape from outside end to the other. Close arm, running yarn through notch in center and then repeating to wind yarn around other arm in the same manner (A). Close up other arm and snip end of yarn with scissors.
  2. 2. Using scissors, cut through the loops, using the notch on the body of the pom-pom maker as your guide (B). Make sure arms are tightly closed when snipping.
  3. 3. Tie off the center with a length of the same yarn, sliding it in the opening between the two arms and then looping the ends to secure (C). Snip the ends as desired.
  4. 4. Open up arm pieces on either side, then pull apart center pieces to remove the pom-pom, trimming it as needed with scissors.

how to attach pom-poms

  1. 1. To sew a pom-pom onto fabric, stitch straight through the pom-pom, being sure to pierce through the tied yarn at the center.
  2. 2. To attach to heavier textiles, such as a blanket or coverlet, leave a tail of about 8 inches when making the pom-poms; thread both ends of the tail through an upholstery needle, stitch through the blanket and then back through the center of the pom-pom, and tie.
  3. 3. Otherwise, use the loose strands to tie pom-poms to key chains, purses and totes (and other items with a zipper enclosure), and decorative objects that have a handle or other appurtenance (think baskets and bins, lamps and sconces, chairs and bedposts). Or just rest a bunch in a pretty bowl and keep on a bedside table or desk.