DIY Pom-Pom Secrets: How to Make Fluffy Pumpkins with Yarn

Have you ever seen pom pom pumpkins? Fluffy pom poms are not only adorable but also perfect for all sorts of projects, like fall-inspired pumpkins! Last year I made different sizes of pom pom pumpkins with my middle school craft students. Today, I'm going to walk you through an easy tutorial on how to create your own pom-poms using different methods and tools.

Whether you're a beginner looking for the easiest way to make small pom poms or a seasoned crafter aiming to master the art of making giant pom poms, this guide has got you covered. Once you’ve made a bunch, experiment with pom-pom Fall garland or Halloween decor.

Full disclosure, you will need a healthy dose of patience – this one is not for little hands! Fine motor skills are an absolute must.

Why Pom-Poms?

Pom-poms are a fun and versatile addition to any craft project. They can be used in everything from DIY home decor to accessories like hats and scarves. With the right materials and techniques, you can create fluffy pom poms in different colors and sizes, perfect for any occasion. Plus, they're a great way to use up scrap yarn!

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of pom-pom crafts and discover the perfect way to make your own pom poms.

DIY Pom-Pom Pumpkin Supplies

Affiliate disclaimer: Although I stand by all of the products I use, I can receive a small commission from any products purchased via my affiliate links.

Orange Yarn

Green Pipe Cleaners

Sharp Scissors

Pom-pom maker set (if you want a variety of sizes)

Glue

*I love ordering supplies on Amazon because there are tons of selection results, free shipping (typically ships within a few business days) and it’s never final sale so if you change your mind, you can send the supplies back.

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Pom-Pom Making Basics

How to Make Easy Pom Poms: Step-by-Step Instructions

There are a few different ways to make DIY pom poms, depending on the tools you have on hand. Personally, I think the best way to make pom poms is with the Clover Pom-Pom Maker. But the good news is, you don't need special tools to make pom poms. You can use materials you probably have at home!

1. Using a Pom Pom Maker

One of the easiest ways to make pom-poms is by using plastic pom pom makers like these ones from Clover. Here’s how you can do it:

Wrap the Yarn: Open your pom pom maker and start wrapping a long piece of yarn around one half of the maker. The more yarn you wrap, the fuller your pom pom will be. If you’re using a Clover pom pom maker, wrap the yarn until you can’t see the inner circle anymore.
Close and Repeat: Close the half circle and repeat the wrapping on the opposite side of the pom pom maker. Make sure you use enough yarn to get a good pom pom.
Cut the Yarn: Take your sharp pair of scissors and cut through the loops of the pom pom. Start at one end and cut all the way around. This is where having sharp fabric scissors comes in handy!
Tie the Knot: Cut a small length of yarn and tie it around the middle of the pom-pom, between the two sides of the pom pom maker. Pull the yarn tight to create a tight knot. For extra security, tie the knot a second time.
Remove and Trim: Gently remove the pom pom from the maker and give it a good trim to shape it into a perfect pom pom. This is where you can get creative with the size and fluffiness of your pom pom.

2. Making Pom-Poms with Cardboard

If you don’t have a pom pom maker, a cardboard template works just as well. Here’s how you can make a pom-pom using cardboard rings or discs:

Create the Template: Cut two identical circles from a piece of cardboard with a smaller circle cut out in the middle. The size of the pom pom will depend on the diameter of the pom pom maker template.
Wrap the Yarn: Hold the two cardboard discs together and start wrapping yarn around them. Keep wrapping until the whole thing is covered and the thickness of the yarn is sufficient.
Cut the Yarn: Once you’ve wrapped enough yarn, cut the strands of yarn by sliding your scissors between the two cardboard rings. Be careful to keep the yarn in place as you cut.
Secure the Pom Pom: Take a small length of yarn and tie it tightly around the middle of the pom pom. Pull it tight and tie a double knot to ensure it stays in place.
Trim and Shape: Carefully remove the cardboard circle and give your pom pom a good trim. This will make it look neat and fluffy.

3. The Fork Pom Pom Method

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make small pom poms, the fork pom pom method is a great option. Here’s an easy method to do it:

Wrap the Yarn: Hold the bottom of the fork and start wrapping a large amount of yarn around the tines. Keep wrapping until you have a nice thick layer of yarn.
Tie the Yarn: Cut a small length of yarn and thread it through the middle of the fork, tying it tightly around the wrapped yarn. Pull it as tight as you can and tie a knot.
Cut and Trim: Carefully slide the yarn off the fork and cut through the loops at each end. Give your pom pom a good trim to make it look even and fluffy.

Tips for Making the Perfect Pom Pom

Now that you know the basics of how to make pom-poms, here are some additional tips and tricks to help you create the best pom poms possible:

Experiment with Yarn Thickness: The thickness of the yarn affects the final look of your pom-poms. Coarser yarns create a more rustic look, while softer, ply yarns result in fluffy pom poms.
Use Different Colors: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different colors of yarn to create multi-colored pom poms. This is a great way to add variety to your craft projects.
Try Different Sizes: Use a smaller circle or a larger pom pom maker to create pom-poms of different sizes. This can add dimension to your projects.
Consider the End Use: If you’re making pom-poms for a specific project, like the top of a hat or as part of a garland, consider how they’ll be used when deciding on size and fullness.
Secure the Knot: A tight knot is crucial for keeping your pom-poms intact. Make sure to pull the yarn as tight as possible when tying off your pom-pom.
Give It a Good Trim: A good trim can make all the difference in the appearance of your pom-poms. Don’t be afraid to snip away at any uneven strands to create a perfectly round and fluffy pom pom.

Fall-Inspired Pumpkin Yarn Pom Poms

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Yarn Pom Pom Pumpkin

1. Prepare the Pom Pom Maker:

Start by opening your pom pom maker. Wrap the orange yarn around one half of the diameter pom pom maker template, covering the entire side. The yarn should be wrapped thick enough to ensure a fuller pom pom, but not so thick that the side won’t close. The number of wraps depends on the thickness of the yarn you’re using.

2. Repeat the Wrapping:

Close the side of the pom pom maker and repeat the wrapping process on the opposite side. Ensure that both sides are evenly covered to create a symmetrical pumpkin pom pom.

3. Cut Through the Yarn:

Using a sharp pair of scissors, begin cutting through the wrapped yarn along the outer edge of the pom pom maker. This step requires fabric scissors or another sharp cutting tool to avoid frustration and achieve a clean cut.

4. Secure the Pom Pom:

Cut a small length of yarn, about 12 inches, and tie it tightly around the middle of the pom pom where you just cut. Pull the yarn to create a tight knot, securing the strands of yarn in place. If you’re crafting with kids or using coarser yarns, you might want to use a twist tie or pipe cleaner for extra security. I recommend tying the knot at least twice to make sure the yarn doesn’t come loose.

5. Remove the Pom Pom Maker:

Carefully pull apart both sides of the pom pom maker to reveal your pumpkin. For a more realistic look, trim around the top and bottom of the pom pom, creating the desired shape. This trimming step helps in achieving the best pom pom look.

6. Add Leaf Details:

Draw and cut out leaf shapes from a piece of felt, varying the sizes to mimic natural leaves. Attach the leaves to the top of the pom pom pumpkin using E6000 glue or a hot glue gun. These small amounts of glue should be enough to securely attach the leaves.

7. Create the Pumpkin Stem:

Insert a twig, green pipe cleaner, or any realistic-looking stem into the center of the pom pom. Pipe cleaners can be easily cut with a wire cutter, and they add a crafty, whimsical touch to your pumpkin.

Optional: Make a Garland or Fall Decor:

If you want to create a pom pom pumpkin garland, tie long pieces of yarn between each pumpkin. Alternatively, turn your pom pom pumpkins into fall decor by gluing on name cards for Thanksgiving, adding a festive touch to your holiday table.

Explore Variations:

Now that you know how to make a yarn pom pom pumpkin, experiment with different sizes using the smallest Clover pom pom maker for itty-bitty pumpkins. For an easier way, you can purchase large orange pom poms from craft stores like Michael’s or Hobby Lobby and simply add the leaves and stem. You will incur an extra cost, but it should be just as fun!

Common Pom-Pom Making Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Even with the easiest method, making pom-poms can sometimes go wrong. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Not Using Enough Yarn: If you don’t use enough yarn, your pom-poms might end up looking sparse. The secret trick to a full pom is wrapping as much yarn as possible around your template or pom pom maker. You need a lot of yarn!
Cutting Too Much: While trimming is essential for shaping your pom-pom, be careful not to overdo it. Cutting too much can result in a smaller, less fluffy pom pom.
Loose Knot: A loose knot can cause your pom-poms to fall apart. Make sure to tie a tight knot and secure it well to keep everything in place.
Using Dull Scissors: Using dull scissors can make it difficult to cut through the yarn, leading to uneven edges. Always use a sharp pair of fabric scissors for the best results.

Where to Find the Best Yarn and Pom Pom Makers

When it comes to finding the best yarn and tools for your pom-pom projects, craft stores like Michael’s, Hobby Lobby, and even online retailers like Amazon are great places to start. You can also find high-quality yarn at thrift stores or local yarn shops. If you're looking to invest in a set of pom pom makers, the Clover pom pom makers are highly recommended for their ease of use and durability. They come in various sizes, allowing you to create everything from mini pom poms to large pom poms. Additionally, using the right yarn can make a big difference in the quality of your pom-poms. Brands like Red Heart Super Saver Yarn are popular choices for their affordability and wide range of colors.

What's the Best Type of Yarn to Use for DIY Pom Poms?

The best type of yarn to make pom poms depends on the desired texture and the specific project you're working on.

For fluffy and soft pom poms, wool yarn is an excellent choice. Wool's natural fibers create a dense, full pom pom, making it ideal for projects where you want a cozy, textured look. Additionally, wool's flexibility allows you to easily shape and trim the pom poms to your liking.

Acrylic yarn is another popular option, especially if you're looking for a more affordable alternative. Acrylic yarn tends to be more durable and comes in a wide variety of colors. While it might not be as soft as wool, it still produces beautiful pom poms that hold their shape well. This type of yarn is especially great for beginners or for projects where you need a large quantity of pom poms.

Ply yarn refers to yarn that is made by twisting together multiple strands. A higher ply yarn, with more strands, can result in a fuller and more substantial pom pom. This type of yarn can be found in both wool and acrylic varieties, allowing you to choose the right material based on your project needs.

When making pom poms, it’s important to ensure you’ve wrapped enough yarn around your pom pom maker or template to achieve the desired fullness. After cutting the loops, don’t forget to secure the end of the yarn tightly to keep your pom pom intact.

For a soft, fluffy finish, and ease of shaping, soft yarn—whether wool or acrylic—is often the best choice. Ultimately, the best yarn for your pom poms will depend on the look and feel you’re aiming to achieve in your craft projects.

Creative Pom Pom Crafts

Now that you know how to make fluffy pom poms, here are some fun and creative ways to use them in your craft projects:

1. Pom Pom Garlands

One of the most popular pom-pom crafts is making garlands. String together a lot of pom poms of different colors and sizes to create a festive garland for any occasion. This is a great way to use up small amounts of yarn left over from other projects.

2. Pom Pom Pumpkins

As mentioned above, pom pom pumpkins are a fantastic craft for Fall. You can make them in various sizes using your Clover pom pom makers and add stems and leaves for a realistic look. This is a good way to get into the Halloween spirit! You could also make apples with red yarn.

3. Pom Pom Flowers

Create a bouquet of pom-pom flowers by attaching your pom-poms to pipe cleaners or sticks. Use different colors and sizes to make a vibrant and fun floral arrangement.

4. Pom Pom Rugs

If you’re feeling ambitious, why not try making a pom-pom rug? This project will require lots of pom-poms, but the result is a soft and cozy rug perfect for a bedroom or nursery.

5. Pom Pom Keychains

Make mini pom poms and attach them to keyrings for a cute and colorful accessory. These make great gifts and are a fun way to show off your crafting skills.

Advanced Pom-Pom Techniques: Getting Creative

Once you’ve mastered the basic methods of making pom-poms, it’s time to explore some advanced techniques that can take your pom-pom crafting to the next level. These techniques allow you to experiment with different shapes, textures, and even patterns within your pom-poms.

1. Multi-Color Pom-Poms

One way to add visual interest to your pom-poms is by using different colors of yarn. To create a multi-color pom-pom, simply switch colors as you wrap the yarn around your pom pom maker or cardboard template. You can create stripes, polka dots, or even a marbled effect by varying how you wrap the yarn.

Stripes: Alternate between two or more colors as you wrap the yarn. This will create a striped effect once the pom-pom is cut and fluffed.

Polka Dots: To make polka dots, wrap a small section of the yarn in one color, then continue with another color, leaving gaps between the dots.

Marbled Effect: Mix two or more colors together as you wrap the yarn around the pom pom maker. This will result in a blended, marbled look when finished.

2. Shaped Pom-Poms

For those who want to get really creative, shaped pom-poms are a fun challenge. You can create hearts, stars, or even letters by carefully trimming your pom-poms into the desired shape. This technique requires a steady hand and sharp fabric scissors, but the results are worth the effort.

Heart-Shaped Pom-Poms: Start with a regular round pom-pom and then trim the top into a heart shape. Begin by trimming a V-shape at the top, then round out the sides.
Star-Shaped Pom-Poms: Create a regular pom-pom, then trim the edges into points to form a star. This requires careful cutting to ensure all the points are even.

3. Patterned Pom-Poms

For a truly unique look, you can create pom-poms with patterns, such as flowers, animals, or geometric shapes. This is an advanced technique that involves wrapping the yarn in a specific pattern on the pom pom maker. Tutorials for these techniques can often be found on crafting blogs or a YouTube channel dedicated to pom-pom crafts.

Adding Pom-Poms to Your Craft Projects

Pom-poms are not just decorative items—they can also add a touch of whimsy and texture to various craft projects. Here are some ideas for incorporating pom-poms into your next project:

1. Pom-Pom Wreaths

Create a seasonal wreath by attaching pom-poms to a wire or foam wreath form. Use different sizes and colors of pom-poms to create a lush, full wreath that can be hung on your door. For added flair, mix in other elements like pinecones, ribbons, or small ornaments.

2. Pom-Pom Embellished Clothing

Pom-poms can be sewn onto clothing items like sweaters, hats, or scarves to add a playful touch. Use mini pom poms for a subtle effect, or go bold with larger pom-poms in contrasting colors. This is a fun way to personalize your wardrobe and make your own pom pom maker creations wearable.

3. Pom-Pom Toys

Pom-poms make great soft toys for children and pets. You can create characters, animals, or even monsters using pom-poms as the base. Add felt, googly eyes, and other embellishments to bring your creations to life. This is a great project to do with kids, as it allows them to use their imagination and create their own unique toys.

4. Pom-Pom Home Decor

From pom-pom pillows to curtains, there are endless possibilities for using pom-poms in home decor. A simple project is to create a pom-pom border for curtains, tablecloths, or pillows. This adds a cozy and fun element to your home, perfect for bedrooms or playrooms.

FAQs about How to Make Pom-Poms

What is the easiest way to make a pom pom?

The easiest way to make a pom pom is by using a pom pom maker—it’s quick, mess-free, and gives you perfectly round pom poms every time!

How do you make a pom pom with cardboard circles?

To make a pom pom with cardboard circles, cut out two identical cardboard rings, wrap the yarn around them, cut through the edges, and tie a knot in the middle before removing the cardboard.

How do you make a pompom without cardboard?

You can make a pom pom without cardboard by using your fingers or a fork—just wrap the yarn around, tie it off in the middle, cut the loops, and fluff it up!

How do you make puffy pom poms?

To make puffy pom poms, wrap plenty of yarn around your pom pom maker or template, then give it a good trim after tying it off to ensure it's fluffy and full.

The Joy of Pom-Pom Crafting

Making pom-poms is a simple, satisfying craft that offers endless possibilities. Whether you’re looking to create a big pom pom for a statement piece, a mini pom pom for a delicate touch, or something in between, the techniques and tips provided in this guide will help you achieve the perfect pom pom every time.

With a bit of yarn, a pom pom maker, and some creativity, you can create fluffy pom poms in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colors. So why not give it a try? Whether you’re decorating your home, accessorizing your wardrobe, or simply looking for a fun and easy craft project, pom-pom making is a great way to express your creativity and add a touch of handmade charm to your life.

Good luck with your pom-pom crafting!

Want more yarn crafts? Check out this tutorial on making pom pom puppies!

Want more Fall decor projects? Check out this awesome tutorial on making a no sew sock turkey!

DIY Pom-Pom Secrets: How to Make Fluffy Pumpkins with Yarn