How to Make a Jacket Pocket
Creating a jacket pocket is a simple yet rewarding project that can add both functionality and style to any garment. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewist, making a jacket pocket is a skill that can be easily mastered. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making a jacket pocket, from selecting the right materials to completing the stitching.
Selecting the Materials
Before you start making a jacket pocket, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials. Here’s a list of items you’ll need:
– Fabric: Choose a fabric that matches the jacket’s color and texture. The pocket should be durable, so avoid delicate materials.
– Patches: Purchase or cut out patches for the pocket’s corners and edges.
– Thread: Select a thread color that complements your fabric.
– Scissors: Use sharp scissors for clean cuts.
– pins: Pins help keep the fabric in place while you sew.
– Sewing machine: If you’re using a sewing machine, make sure it’s in good working condition.
Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
To create a jacket pocket, you’ll need to measure and cut the fabric. Here’s a basic guide for a standard-sized pocket:
1. Determine the desired size of your pocket. For a typical jacket pocket, a width of 8 inches and a depth of 5 inches is a good starting point.
2. Cut a piece of fabric that is twice the width of the pocket (16 inches for our example) and the same depth (5 inches).
3. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, right sides together, and press with an iron.
4. Cut a 2-inch wide strip from the bottom of the folded fabric. This will become the pocket opening.
Adding the Patches
Patches are a great way to add character and durability to your jacket pocket. Follow these steps to add patches:
1. Iron the patches onto the bottom of the pocket, positioning them as desired.
2. Sew around the patches with a zigzag stitch to secure them in place.
Stitching the Pocket Opening
Now it’s time to sew the pocket opening. Follow these steps:
1. Place the pocket fabric with the wrong side facing up.
2. Place the patch side of the pocket fabric face down on the wrong side of the jacket fabric, aligning the edges.
3. Pin the fabric in place, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
4. Sew around the pocket opening, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance, and leave a 2-inch opening for turning the pocket right side out.
Turning and Finishing the Pocket
Once the pocket is stitched, it’s time to turn and finish it:
1. Turn the pocket right side out through the 2-inch opening, using a pencil or chopstick to push out the corners.
2. Press the pocket with an iron, making sure the seams are flat.
3. Topstitch the pocket opening and around the edges, closing the 2-inch opening as you go.
Attaching the Pocket to the Jacket
Finally, attach the pocket to the jacket:
1. Place the jacket face down on your work surface.
2. Position the pocket on the jacket, making sure it’s centered and aligned with the desired location.
3. Pin the pocket in place, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
4. Sew the pocket to the jacket using a 1/4-inch seam allowance, securing the pocket to the jacket.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully made a jacket pocket. This skill can be applied to various garments, and with practice, you’ll be able to create unique and stylish pockets for all your sewing projects.
