Pom Pom Maker, great fun!

thingiverse

This is a simple way to create Pom Poms without having to thread knitting wool through a diminishing center in a doughnut shape.\r\n\r\nIt allows the wool to be easily wound around the perimeter, and then the central binding string can be tied. The supporting system can be reused multiple times.\r\n\r\nMaking cute Pom Poms is not rocket science, but with this system it's easy to create them quickly using a few simple steps.\r\n\r\nJust print two parts of each size, and align them so the registration dimples line up. Then start winding the thread. You can wind paired colours simultaneously (like Red/Yellow) or bands of different colors in sequence (like Red/Blue).\r\n\r\nFive sizes are provided here (inner diameter mm/outer diameter mm), including Tiny (16/40), Cute (20/50), Small (25,60), Medium (28,70), and Large(34,80). The OpenSCAD file is available so you can mix your own custom sizes.\r\n\r\nUsing thin threads (fine ply wool) will create more authentic Pom Poms, but with this design it's easy to add more thread. Winding multiple coloured threads or bands of different colors in sequence is also simple. It's the perfect way to use up leftover wool.\r\n\r\nJust print two each of the sizes you want, and get started. The system is robust enough that you'll make many Pom Poms before it wears out.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, this design makes Pom Pom making so simple that anyone - family members, friends, students as young as 6 years old - can do it successfully.\r\n\r\nWhen winding threads near the slit opening, you may get disorientated. To help with this, use your thumb to keep the thread steady while slipping it through the slit with your other hand.\r\n\r\nShort scissors are essential for cutting through the wound thread. Long scissors won't work well at all. My wife's nursing scissors made a big difference - they have short strong blades that can easily cut through the thread.\r\n\r\nTo tie the central thread around the Pom Pom, wrap it twice to ensure it holds strongly. Give it a good hard tug to make sure it's tight, and this will help hold the threads in place when you pull off the formers.\r\n\r\nNow slowly pull off each former, holding onto the opposite side of the Pom Pom threads to prevent them from getting tangled or damaged.\r\n\r\nIf you use thin threads and many winds, your Pom Poms may not need much trimming. Others might require a little shaping to get that perfect ball effect.\r\n\r\nIt's rewarding to share a project that helps kids create handmade goods easily and successfully. I hope this will be enjoyed by Scouts, Guides, and other youth organizations!\r\n\r\nPS The largest pattern had an unintended bump on the base of the print, but it has now been corrected.