how to make tassels with embroidery floss

3 min read 05-02-2025

how to make tassels with embroidery floss

Making tassels with embroidery floss is a fun and rewarding craft. The possibilities are endless – from adding a touch of elegance to your handmade jewelry to creating beautiful bookmarks or keychains. This detailed guide will walk you through the process, step by step, so you can start creating your own unique tassels in no time.

What You'll Need to Make Embroidery Floss Tassels

Before you begin, gather these essential materials:

Embroidery floss: Choose your favorite colors and quantities. The amount you need depends on the tassel size you want to create.
Scissors: Sharp scissors are crucial for clean cuts.
Tape or binder clips: To secure the floss bundles while you work.
Cardboard: A piece of sturdy cardboard, approximately 2-3 inches wide, will act as your tassel maker.
Needle (optional): A needle can make it easier to wrap the floss around the cardboard.
Glue (optional): A strong craft glue for securing the top of the tassel.
Embellishments (optional): Beads, charms, or other decorative elements to personalize your tassels.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Embroidery Floss Tassels

1. Prepare Your Cardboard Template

Cut a strip of cardboard approximately 2-3 inches wide and as long as you want your tassel to be. The width of the cardboard will determine the width of your tassel.

2. Wrapping the Embroidery Floss

Method 1 (Without a Needle): Wrap the embroidery floss tightly around the cardboard. The more strands you wrap, the fuller your tassel will be. Aim for at least 50-100 wraps for a medium-sized tassel.
Method 2 (With a Needle): Thread your needle with several strands of embroidery floss. Wrap the floss around the cardboard using the needle to guide it. This method can be faster and more even.

3. Securing the Wrapped Floss

Once you have enough wraps, carefully slide a piece of tape or a binder clip around the center of the wrapped floss to hold it securely in place on the cardboard.

4. Cutting the Floss Loops

Carefully remove the tape or clip. Using your sharp scissors, cut along one edge of the wrapped floss, freeing the loops from the cardboard.

5. Creating the Tassel Top

Gathering the loops: Gently gather the loops together at the top.
Adding a small piece of floss Cut another piece of embroidery floss, approximately 6-12 inches long, depending on the length of the tassel. Tie this tightly around the gathered loops, creating a secure knot. Leave enough extra floss to act as a hanger or loop.

6. Trimming the Tassel

Trim the bottom of the tassel to create an even, straight edge. You can use your scissors to create a slightly pointed or rounded bottom, depending on your preference.

7. Adding Embellishments (Optional)

Now’s the time to get creative! Add beads, charms, or other embellishments to the top of your tassel before securing it permanently.

8. Securing the Top (Optional)

If you wish, apply a small amount of glue to the knot at the top of the tassel to further secure it. Allow the glue to dry completely.

Tips and Variations for Making Tassels

Experiment with different colors and combinations. Create ombre effects or use contrasting colors for a striking look.
Vary the length of the tassels. Make a set of tassels with varying lengths for a unique effect.
Try different types of thread. Experiment with other materials like yarn or metallic threads for different textures and appearances.
Make larger or smaller tassels. Simply adjust the number of wraps and the width of your cardboard to achieve your desired size.

Making tassels with embroidery floss is a versatile and creative craft. With a little practice, you’ll be able to make beautiful tassels for a variety of projects. So gather your materials, and start creating! Share your creations with us – we’d love to see what you make!