DIY Cat's Eye Pom-Poms: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 12/05/2025

Cats are undeniably captivating creatures, and their mesmerizing eyes often inspire artistic expression. Today, we're channeling that feline allure into a fun and surprisingly simple craft project: creating DIY cat's eye pom-poms! These charming little ornaments are perfect for adding a touch of playful elegance to hats, scarves, keychains, or even just as decorative pieces around your home. Forget expensive store-bought decorations; with just a few readily available materials and a bit of patience, you can craft a whole collection of these captivating pom-poms.

Their unique design, mimicking the captivating glint of a cat's eye, makes them truly special. From vibrant greens and golds to deep blues and ambers, the color possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor your creations to your personal style. Ready to unleash your inner crafter and create these adorable accessories? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide below, showing you exactly how to make your very own DIY cat's eye pom-poms.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Cardboard pom-pom makers
  • Yarn (3 colors)
  • Scissors
Safety Guidelines
  • Adult supervision is required, especially when working with sharp scissors or hot glue.
  • Keep yarn and small pom-pom parts away from young children and pets to prevent choking hazards.
  • Ensure proper ventilation when using hot glue to avoid inhaling fumes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Materials

    • Prepare your cardboard pom-pom makers and yarn. Decide on your three colors (e.g., black, green, and a lighter color).
    Prepare your cardboard pom-pom makers and yarn. Decide on your three colors (e.g., black, green, and a lighter color).
    Prepare Materials

  2. Create Black Core

    • Wrap the black yarn around the cardboard, starting with a single row. Gradually increase density towards the center to create a diamond shape.
    • Tie off the black yarn securely.
    Tie off the black yarn securely.Tie off the black yarn securely.
    Create Black Core

  3. Create Iris Layer

    • Wrap the chosen iris color (e.g., green) around the black core, overlapping it on the sides. Make this layer thicker on the sides than the top and bottom.
    • Tie off the iris color yarn.
    Tie off the iris color yarn.Tie off the iris color yarn.
    Create Iris Layer

  4. Create Outer Layer

    • Wrap the outer color (e.g., light beige) around the entire pom-pom, ensuring complete coverage. Wrap thoroughly to create a dense, even layer.
    • Tie off the outer color yarn.
    Tie off the outer color yarn. Tie off the outer color yarn.
    Create Outer Layer

  5. Remove Cardboard & Initial Shaping

    • Separate the cardboard pieces. Pull the initial tie strings to loosen the yarn.
    • Using sharp scissors, carefully cut the loops of yarn between the cardboard.
    • Remove the cardboard. Tighten the initial tie and trim the excess string.
    Remove the cardboard. Tighten the initial tie and trim the excess string.Remove the cardboard. Tighten the initial tie and trim the excess string.Remove the cardboard. Tighten the initial tie and trim the excess string.
    Remove Cardboard & Initial Shaping

  6. Final Trimming & Shaping

    • Trim the pom-pom to achieve a smooth, rounded shape, revealing the cat's eye design.
    Trim the pom-pom to achieve a smooth, rounded shape, revealing the cat's eye design.
    Final Trimming & Shaping

Read more: No-Sew Sock Cat Tutorial: Adorable DIY Project

Tips

  • Use a sufficient amount of yarn for each layer to achieve a full and dense pom-pom.
  • Use very sharp scissors for cutting the loops to prevent fraying and ensure a clean finish.
  • Pull the initial tie strings tightly after removing the cardboard to create a firm, well-shaped pom-pom.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Yarn Tension

Reason: Inconsistent pulling of the yarn while wrapping creates a lopsided or bumpy pom-pom.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension throughout the wrapping process to ensure an even, symmetrical pom-pom.

2. Improperly Secured Yarn

Reason: The wrapped yarn isn't tightly secured before cutting, causing the pom-pom to unravel.
Solution: Use extra wraps of yarn around the center and tie multiple secure knots before cutting the loops.

FAQs

What materials do I need to make cat's eye pom-poms?
You'll need yarn in two colors (one for the base, one for the pupil), scissors, a fork (or pom-pom maker), and a needle and thread for assembling.
How do I create the cat's eye effect?
Wrap the yarn for the base color around your fork (or pom-pom maker). Then, create a smaller center circle with the pupil color yarn before securing and trimming.
Can I use different types of yarn?
Yes! Experiment with different yarn weights and textures. However, keep in mind that thicker yarns will create larger pom-poms.