How to Make a Pom Pom with Yarn: The Ultimate Guide
This post will show you how to make a pom pom with yarn. Here are three different techniques to make the perfect pom pom every time!
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If you love crafting, learning how to make pom poms with yarn is a must! They are versatile, fun, and can be used in so many creative ways. Whether you’re making small pom poms for a garland, a giant pom pom for a cushion, or even mini pom poms, the process is simple and satisfying.
I learned how to make a pom pom when I was about 6. My Granny taught me the old-age technique of using a cardboard template! You can also create pom poms with a fork, although the fastest method I have found is using these Clover pom pom makers.
Let’s get started and create some fluffy pom poms.
How to Make a Pom Pom with Yarn: The Ultimate Guide
Materials You Need for Pom Pom Making
Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
- Yarn– You can use scrap yarn or a full skein of yarn in your favorite color. Wool yarn and cotton yarn are both great options.
- Sharp scissors– A good trim makes for a nice dense pom pom.
- Cardboard– Make cardboard templates or circles for your pom pom shape.
- Special tools– A Clover pom pom maker can make the process quicker.
- Fork– Great for making small pom poms or mini pom poms.
- Tapestry needle or yarn needles– To finish your yarn pom pom.
Method 1: Using a Clover Pom Pom Maker
For an easier way to create perfect pom poms of different sizes, try a Clover pom pom maker. These tools have curved arms that make the process foolproof!
The pom pom maker I have can be made in four sizes, and I love it!
What You Need:
- A set of pom pom makers
- Yarn
- Sharp scissors
Steps:
Open the Clover Pom Pom Maker. Extend the curved arms.
Wrap the Yarn. Wrap yarn evenly around the curved arms on both sides.
Cut the Yarn. Close the arms, and use sharp scissors to cut along the sides of the pompom.
Tie the Middle. Slide a piece of yarn through the middle of the pom-pom and tie a tight knot.
Trim the Pom Pom. Remove the tool, fluff, and give your pom pom a final trim.
A Clover pom pom maker is the easiest way to create more oversized pom poms, small pom poms, and everything in between.
Method 2: How to Make a Pom Pom with a Cardboard Template
A cardboard template is one of the easiest ways to create yarn pom poms at home. I usually use old Amazon boxes for crafts like this, which are a great way to repurpose paper and cardboard.
What You Need:
- Pieces of cardboard
- Yarn
- Sharp scissors
- Yarn needle (optional)
Steps:
Create Your Cardboard Template. Cut out two cardboard discs with a smaller circle cut out of the middle. You can also make cardboard rings with two circle sizes that suit the size of pom pom you want.
Wrap the Yarn. Start to wrap yarn around the cardboard discs.
Wrap until you’ve used enough yarn to fill the disc. The thickness of the yarn determines how dense it will be.
Cut the Yarn. Carefully insert your scissors between the two cardboard rings and cut the wrapped yarn all the way around.
Tie the Middle: Slide a piece of yarn between the discs and tie a tight knot in the middle of the pom-pom. Double-knot it to secure it.
Shape and Trim: Remove the cardboard discs and give your pom pom a good trim with sharp scissors. The next step is fluffing the yarn to achieve a nice, dense look.
Method 3: Making a Pom Pom with a Fork
If you don’t have a pom pom maker or cardboard, a fork is a good way to make little pom poms.
What You Need:
- A fork (preferably a large one)
- Yarn
- Sharp scissors
Steps:
Wrap the Yarn. Before you start, cut a piece of wool and place it between the prongs. Then, wrap the yarn tightly around the fork prongs. The amount of yarn will depend on how fluffy you want the pom pom to be.
Tie the Middle. Take the small piece of yarn you slid through the bottom of the fork, bring it around, and tie a tight knot around the yarn bundle.
Cut the Loops. Use sharp scissors to cut through the loops on either side of the pom pom.
Trim and Shape. Fluff your pom pom and trim the excess yarn to create a round shape.
The fork pom pom method is perfect for mini pom poms and quick craft projects.
Here is an excellent example from Red Ted Art.
Tips for the Perfect Pom Pom
- Use thicker yarns for a fuller pom pom.
- Make sure to tie a tight knot in the centre for durability.
- Fluff and give your pom pom a good trim for a professional look.
- Use a yarn or tapestry needle to attach pom poms to hats, garlands, or other craft projects.
