YO YO QUILTS

Yo Yo quilts were first seen in the 1920's and were popular through the 1940's. This type of quilt is very simple to make and allows the quilter to express their creativity in an unique way. These quilts were considered "pick up" and "take along" work because they could be done anywhere.

Yo Yo quilts are made up of tiny circles of fabric. The circles are gathered by making a running stitch along the outside edge of small circles of fabric, then gathering them to the center. This creates a smaller circle still with all raw edges inside. It is very easy to do but......it takes many yo yos for one quilt!

To get an idea of just how long it takes to make a yo yo quilt, make just one yo yo and time how long it took you. Multiply that by how many you need to make your bedspread or pillow cover and it will give you an idea of the worth of your project.

Many quilters bypass the yo yo making stage by purchasing the yo yos already made. For example, I make miniature yo yos which are perfect for doll quilts. Each yo yo measures about an inch in diameter.  You can see some here.

To make a yo yo yourself you will need cotton material in the colors of your choice.

 Cut the yo yo about twice the size you want for the finished yo yo plus about 1/4 inch for the seam allowance.  Turn the seam allowance over to the wrong side of the fabric (wrong side should be facing you) and gather with a running stitch. Flatten your yo yo with your hands and take a few small stitches to secure the inner circle. Repeat with more circles of fabric until you have as many as you need.  You can use anything circular for a template. I use a small footed glass for my miniature yo yos. It handles easier than a circle of cardboard for me.

How to use your yo yos:

The traditional use for yo yos is for quilts, or pillow tops. But you can also use them as accent pieces on belts and vests and other pieces of clothing.

A yo yo quilt does not require any backing but often the quilter will lay a contrasting color under the quilt if using it as a bedspread.