DIY Tassel Tutorial

Since I don't have any real sewing to write about, and since I've been meaning to write this tutorial for  a while, I guess I'll just get to it now.  


Making a tassel is really quite easy.  All you really need is a good heavy-weight thread, such as crewel thread.  It's used for embroidery and crewel work and is heavier than embroidery thread.  


Choose a color that will work well with your home decor, and you can use your tassel for any number of decorating projects: stitch, glue or tie it on to

• pillows
• curtain tie-backs
• Christmas tree 
• wreath
• teapot
• cup 
• photo frame
• book mark
• cell phone
• zippers

Once you've chosen your thread, you might gather a few other items to embellish your tassel: ribbon, beads, cording, and thin fabric strips.  You can stop once the basic tassel is complete or continue and add some of these embellishments to the tassel.  Today's tutorial will cover the basic tassel.  Tomorrow I'll tell you how to add beads, ribbon and other embellishments.


Step 1: Slide the paper rings off the skein of thread but do not unroll the thread.  It's easiest to handle while still twisted and is pre-measured.  Your tassel will be half the length of the skein.   Gently unwind about 12 inches of thread and cut off.  Cut this piece in half.  Measure the skein and find the center, then tie one of the 6 inch threads very tightly around the skein at the center point.  

Step 2: Cut the threads apart at the folds on each end of the skein.  Fold the entire skein in half so that the center thread is on top of the tassel.  Tie the second piece of 6 inch thread around the tassel about 1/2 inch below the fold tying tightly.  Wrap the end of the thread around several times and tie off.  Use a needle or pin to tuck the ends into the center of the tassel.  Tie the two ends on the top of the tassel so that you have a hanger.  Snip off the extra edges.


You now have a basic tassel.  Tomorrow we'll add beads, cording, or ribbon to the tassel.