by Stephanie Gellepes

Created on: March 12, 2010

Pom-pom's can be used as an embellishment that adorns charm, to any scarf, hat, key chain, zipper, or anything you want. You identify it.  Pom- pom's come in a variety of different colors and textures depending on the type of yarn used.  Mix different colors of yarn, for a wonderful multicolor pom-pom. If you have scrap yarn left over from a previous project, use it for making pom-pom's while you sit watching television.

Some pom-pom's can be soft and fluffy or, rough and slightly feathery and airy.  Some which are used for zippers, can be decorated.  Adhere faces by gluing eyes, a tiny button for a nose, or just be creative for a little added touch. Whatever type of pom-pom you choose, they are great fun, easy, and anyone can make them.

Items you will need to create a pom-pom.

* sharp scissors
* card board (or) use of your fingers
* Yarn ( Your choice and color)
* Sewing needle used for wool
* Fabric shaver ( optional,) It takes the edges of the pom-pom down to a trimmed smooth close shave.


There are a couple of different methods. For a quick, easy method which makes a  mini pom-pom.  

1.  Wrap the yarn around two fingers held slightly apart. Wrap yarn around and count to about 75 to 85 times.

2.  Carefully slide the yarn off your fingers, and hold one end.

3.  Use the end of the yarn to wrap around the center several times really tight and tie it.

4.  Leave a tail of about ten inches long,  push through the sewing needle, and sew yarn through the center again a few more times. This makes the pom-pom secure through the center, so it does not fall apart.

5. Use the sharp scissors and cut through both ends of the loops, each side of the center.

6. Fluff the pom-pom's and smooth the edges by cutting and trimming around, until you have reached the desired size and look.

7.  For added smoothness of the pom-pom's, use the fabric shaver, and just slightly touch the shaver to the edges of the yarn.


Medium or Large Pom-pom's

1. Draw out two circles using a can, cup, or circular utensil as a guide.  Be sure to choose well, as this will be the size of the pom-pom
.
2. Draw two smaller holes in the center, leaving enough room to string yarn through.

3. Cut out the outer circles and also, the inner holes.

4. Place the two circular card board pieces together, and begin to wrap the yarn around the circle, through the hole.  (A small ball of yarn works best.)

5. Continue wrapping yarn around, in even motion, until you are unable to push any more yarn through it. (for a light pom-pom use less yarn.)

6. Once the yarn is wrapped, find the cardboard, by separating the yarn just slightly.  Insert the scissors in between the two pieces of  cardboard and cut the yarn.  

7. Continue to cut until the card board is revealed, and then pull the two apart just enough to wrap yarn through the center.

8. Wrap yarn through the center, and tie really tight!

9. Fluff, and trim. Cut until the desired shape, and consistency is reached. Again get out the fabric shaver and slightly touch at the edges for a smooth, finished look.

 This completes the two simple methods for making pom-pom's. With a little practice, and patience this can be a fun project for girls slumber party or just something to do with all that extra left over yarn.  Remember, have the fun!

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