NOTE: This project stems from the craft known as Kimekomi developed in the 18th century in Japan for making dolls. The term means "to tuck into a groove." With the invention of polystyrene foam, the craft has become more widely practiced worldwide. Learn more about the ancient craft.
Cut fabric into small irregular shaped pieces (circles, triangles, squares, oblong, oval, etc.). Any shape will work if it is not too small or large. Fabric pieces will depend on the size of the styrofoam ball.
Take time to experiment with fabric and styrofoam. Practice learning how much pressure is needed to push fabric edges into the styrofoam.
Carefully, begin pushing or poking the edges of the fabric pieces into the styrofoam ball in irregular patterns. Avoid having two of the same color and/or print side-by-side. Continue the process until the ball looks like a patchwork design.
Cut a piece of 6" ribbon or cord and attach with glue as a hanger.
JOANN HACKS:
Fabrics can be color coordinated or a mismatched patchwork design.
A variety of styrofoam shapes can be used such as egg or cone.
Balls can be hung or placed in a decorative bowl.
Rather than a random design, draw a pattern on the ball.
Add ribbon, braid, cord, beads, sequins along seams.
Increase the challenge by using a very lightweight batting cut into the shapes of the pattern drawn on the ball. Press fabric edges around the batting shape to create more dimension in the design.