How to Insert a Pocket into a Side Seam
Adding a pocket to a side seam can be a great way to enhance the functionality and style of a garment. Whether you’re creating a dress, shirt, or pants, inserting a pocket can provide a convenient place to store small items. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to insert a pocket into a side seam, ensuring a professional and seamless result.
Materials and Tools Needed
Before beginning the pocket insertion process, gather the following materials and tools:
– Fabric for the pocket
– Matching thread
– Sewing machine
– Seam ripper
– Scissors
– Pins
– Ruler
– Tailor’s chalk or fabric pen
Step 1: Prepare the Pocket
1. Cut out the pocket pattern from the fabric, ensuring it matches the desired size and shape.
2. Iron the pocket fabric to remove any wrinkles or creases.
3. Fold the top edge of the pocket over by 1/4 inch and press with an iron. Then, fold it over again by 1/4 inch and press again. This creates a finished edge for the pocket opening.
4. Using the tailor’s chalk or fabric pen, mark the pocket placement on the garment’s side seam, ensuring it is centered and at the desired height.
Step 2: Attach the Pocket to the Side Seam
1. Begin by stitching the pocket to the garment’s side seam. Start at the top of the pocket, where the finished edge is, and sew down to the bottom edge.
2. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam to secure the stitching.
3. Once the pocket is attached, press the seam open with an iron to create a flat surface for the next step.
Step 3: Hem the Pocket Opening
1. Using the seam ripper, carefully remove the stitching from the garment’s side seam, leaving a small amount of the seam allowance intact.
2. Measure and mark the desired pocket opening width on the garment’s side seam, keeping in mind the finished edge of the pocket.
3. Cut the side seam along the marked line, being careful not to cut through the pocket stitching.
4. Trim the seam allowance to 1/4 inch and press the edges open.
5. Topstitch the side seam back together, starting from the bottom edge of the pocket and continuing to the top, where the pocket is attached.
Step 4: Insert the Pocket Lining (Optional)
1. If desired, cut a piece of lining fabric that is slightly larger than the pocket opening.
2. Pin the lining fabric to the inside of the pocket, ensuring it is centered and aligned with the pocket opening.
3. Sew the lining fabric to the inside of the pocket, leaving an opening for turning the pocket right side out.
4. Trim the seam allowances and turn the pocket right side out through the opening.
5. Press the pocket and topstitch around the edges, closing the opening as you go.
Step 5: Final Touches
1. Press the pocket and side seam open with an iron.
2. Topstitch the pocket opening to create a finished edge.
3. Reattach any buttons or closures that were removed during the pocket insertion process.
Congratulations! You have successfully inserted a pocket into a side seam. This addition will not only enhance the functionality of your garment but also showcase your sewing skills. Happy sewing!
