How to Insert Pockets in a Dress
Adding pockets to a dress can be a game-changer, transforming a simple garment into a practical and stylish piece. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced seamstress, inserting pockets into a dress is a skill that can elevate your fashion game. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of how to insert pockets in a dress, ensuring that your final product is both functional and fashionable.
Choosing the Right Pockets
Before you start inserting pockets, it’s essential to choose the right type of pocket for your dress. There are various styles to consider, such as patch pockets, side seam pockets, or welt pockets. Patch pockets are the most straightforward to add and are perfect for a casual look. Side seam pockets are ideal for a sleeker silhouette, while welt pockets offer a sophisticated touch. Consider the dress’s style and the fabric’s weight when selecting the pocket type.
Preparing the Dress
Once you’ve chosen the pocket style, it’s time to prepare the dress. Start by laying out the dress on a flat surface, ensuring that the fabric is smooth and wrinkle-free. If you’re working with a pattern, refer to the instructions for pocket placement. Mark the pocket placement on the dress with a fabric pen or chalk, and then cut out the pocket pieces according to the pattern or your design.
Attaching the Pocket Lining
Begin by attaching the pocket lining to the dress. If you’re using a patch pocket, place the pocket lining on the wrong side of the dress fabric, aligning the edges. Pin the lining in place, and then sew around the edges using a straight stitch. If you’re using a side seam pocket, place the pocket lining on the wrong side of the dress, and sew the lining to the dress along the side seam.
Inserting the Pocket Bag
Next, insert the pocket bag into the pocket lining. For patch pockets, place the pocket bag inside the lining, ensuring that the right sides of the fabric are facing each other. Pin the bag in place, and then sew around the edges, leaving a small opening to turn the pocket right side out. For side seam pockets, place the pocket bag inside the lining, and sew the bag to the lining along the side seam.
Finishing the Pockets
Once the pocket bag is securely attached to the lining, turn the pocket right side out. Press the edges to create a crisp look. If necessary, topstitch around the edges of the pocket to reinforce the stitching and give it a polished appearance. For welt pockets, follow the pattern instructions to create the welt and insert the pocket bag.
Attaching the Pockets to the Dress
Finally, attach the pockets to the dress. For patch pockets, pin the pocket to the dress, aligning the edges. Sew the pocket to the dress using a straight stitch, and then remove the pins. For side seam pockets, place the pocket lining on the dress, and sew the lining to the dress along the side seam. For welt pockets, follow the pattern instructions to attach the welt and pocket bag to the dress.
Congratulations!
Congratulations! You’ve successfully inserted pockets into your dress. Not only does your dress now have a practical feature, but it also looks stylish and well-crafted. With this new skill under your belt, you can experiment with different pocket styles and add them to various garments, making your sewing projects even more enjoyable and rewarding.
