I discovered the new Yo-Yo makers and I'm hooked. I've been making them like crazy. If you want to see the yo-yo maker - click here. I always wanted to make a Yo-Yo coverlet for my bed. It seems like a daunting project so I've never attempted it. Then I got a bright idea! We make quilts a block at a time, why not a Yo-Yo coverlet that way too! So here are the instructions to make a Yo-Yo block! Gather up your scraps in these colors:
Now make Yo-Yos. If you want to make them the old fashioned way, instructions are offered by this website - http://heatherbailey.typepad.com/photos/how_to_make_a_yoyo/hbyoyotutorial1.html This is the slow way. I don't recommend it. The Clover Yo-Yo maker is just wonderful. You can order a Yo-Yo maker here: http://sunbonnetsue.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=8&products_id=648 To make each block you'll need 81 Yo-Yos. They are sewn together in a 9 x 9 grid.. Here are your quantities:
I like to carry a baggie with the yo-yo maker, a pair of sissors, thread (make sure to use quilting or button thread so the Yo-Yos hold together for a long time), needle and the scraps of fabric. That way I'm ready to go! Since the Yo's Finish up at 1 3/4", your finished block is 15 3/4" square. You'll make enough block to sew together for coverlet in no time. With the Yo-Yo maker I can turn out finished Yo-Yos in less than 3 minutes! No joke. Here is the color chart for sewing the Yo-Yos together:
Simply tack them together at the edges of each circle. Use a sturdy thread to hold them together. The blocks look completely different when sewn together. Here is what four blocks look like:
Of course, if you don't want to make a larger piece, one block looks great on a table. I have the one above on my nightstand with a lamp on it. You can also sew three for four block together to make a table runner. So have fun making those Yo-Yos. In the coming months you'll be able to buy additional Yo-Yo makers. There are heart shapes, flowers and diamonds! ENJOY! Kim Bunchuck |
