How to Sew a Pocket

Sewing pockets onto your clothes is not just a practical skill it’s an essential part of sewing that can improve the function and talent of any piece of clothing. Whether you aim to sew a pocket on a shirt, jacket, or pants, mastering this technique will open up new possibilities for modifying your wardrobe.

This article is tailor-made for sewing enthusiasts in the United States eager to learn this valued sewing skill. We’ll take you through the basics of pocket-sewing with a full game plan that ensures you fix it on the first try. So this article will help you: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners on how to sew a pocket.

Table of Contents

What You Need

Before we dive into the stitching and flipping, let’s ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials:

Fabric of choice (complementary or matching your garment)
Sewing machine (or a needle for hand sewing, if you prefer)
Thread (colour-matched to your fabric)
Fabric scissors
Pins or clips
Iron and ironing board
Tailor’s chalk or fabric marker
Ruler or measuring tape

Instructions

Cut Out Two Pocket Pieces

Start by directly selecting a pocket pattern or sketching one to your desired size onto the fabric. Remember to include a 1/2 inch seam allowance around the pocket’s perimeter for seam space. Cut out two identical pieces.

Mark Your Pocket Placement

Place your garment flat and use the tailor’s chalk, a fabric marker, and your ruler to mark where the pocket will be positioned. Precision here is critical, determining how your pocket sits on the finished piece.

Pin Your Pockets

Align your cut-out pocket pieces to the markings on your garment, right sides together, and secure them with pins or clips. Ensure the pockets are even and correctly oriented before moving forward.

Bonus

Thread a Needle for Sewing

Start Stitching

Using your sewing machine or needle, stitch around the three sides of the pocket, leaving the top open—Backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the stitches. Reinforce the pocket entrance by stitching a small triangle at the top corners for a neat finish.

Turn Out Your Pockets

Carefully clip the corner triangles and turn the pocket right-side out. Use your fingers or a pointed tool to push out the corners for a sharp edge. Then, press the edges with an iron to flatten and define the shape.

Pin and Sew the Side Seams

Once your pockets are turned out, pin them along the side seams of your garment, ensuring they don’t shift while you sew along these edges to attach the pocket to the garment.

Press and Flip

After the pockets are attached, give them one final press with your iron. This helps them lie flat against the garment and gives a professional-looking finish.

Conclusion

Sewing a pocket on a shirt may look like a detailed task at first look, but by breaking down the process into controllable steps, anyone can add functional and stylish pockets to their garments. Practice makes perfect, and soon enough, you’ll find yourself adding pockets surely to all your projects.

Whether to keep your hands warm or stash essentials, pockets are more than a fabric patch. They are a blend of utility and style. So, grip your sewing kit, and let’s sew those pockets on. By reading this article, you will learn how to sew a pocket on a shirt.

FAQs

What type of fabric is best for sewing pockets?

For durable and long-lasting pockets, consider using sturdy fabrics such as denim, canvas, or twill. For lighter garments, like dresses or blouses, opt for lightweight cotton or silk fabric to maintain a smooth and seamless appearance.

Do I need a particular sewing machine to sew pockets?

While a primary sewing machine can handle most pocket sewing tasks, having a machine with a free arm feature can make it easier to maneuver around smaller pockets, like those found in pants or skirts. Additionally, a machine with multiple stitch options can add decorative flair to your pocket designs.

Should I pre-wash the fabric before sewing the pockets?

Yes, it’s advisable to pre-wash the fabric to account for any shrinkage that may occur. This ensures that your finished pockets maintain their shape and size after the garment is laundered.

What are some creative ways to customize pocket designs?

Consider adding embellishments such as contrasting fabric trims, decorative stitching, or embroidery to personalize your pockets. You can also experiment with different shapes and sizes to create unique pocket styles.

How can I ensure the pockets are securely attached to the garment?

To ensure durability, reinforce the pocket edges by backstitching at the beginning and end of each seam. For extra security, consider topstitching around the pocket edges or adding bar tacks at stress points.