How to Put a Pocket in a Skirt
Adding a pocket to a skirt can be a great way to personalize your wardrobe and make it more functional. Whether you’re looking to add a small patch pocket to a simple A-line skirt or a larger, more intricate pocket to a denim skirt, the process is relatively straightforward. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to put a pocket in a skirt, ensuring a successful outcome.
Choose the Right Pocket
Before you start sewing, it’s important to choose the right pocket for your skirt. Consider the style of the skirt, the fabric, and the intended use of the pocket. Patch pockets are a popular choice for their simplicity and can be added to almost any type of skirt. Other types of pockets, such as welt pockets or side seam pockets, may require more advanced sewing skills and can add a unique touch to your skirt.
Prepare Your Materials
Once you’ve chosen the type of pocket you want to add, gather your materials. You’ll need the following:
– The skirt fabric
– Pocket fabric (if different from the skirt fabric)
– Matching thread
– Sewing machine
– Pins
– Scissors
– Seam ripper (optional)
Mark the Pocket Placement
Start by marking the placement of the pocket on your skirt. Use a fabric pen or chalk to draw a line where the top edge of the pocket will be. Ensure that the pocket is centered and at the desired height. For patch pockets, you may also need to mark the pocket’s shape and any seam lines.
Attach the Pocket
With your markings in place, it’s time to attach the pocket. Follow these steps:
1. If the pocket fabric is different from the skirt fabric, place the pocket fabric on top of the skirt fabric, right sides together.
2. Pin the pocket fabric in place, aligning the marked lines.
3. Sew along the marked lines, leaving a small opening for turning the pocket right side out.
4. Trim the seam allowances and turn the pocket right side out.
5. Press the pocket flat, ensuring that the edges are even and the corners are neatly turned.
Set the Pocket in Place
Now that your pocket is ready, it’s time to set it in place on the skirt. Follow these steps:
1. Pin the pocket to the skirt, ensuring that the edges are aligned with the marked lines.
2. Sew the pocket to the skirt, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Make sure to secure the seam at the top of the pocket, where you left an opening for turning.
3. Trim the seam allowances and press the pocket in place.
Finishing Touches
To complete the pocket, you may need to do the following:
– Topstitch around the pocket, if desired, to give it a finished look.
– Hand-sew the opening of the pocket closed, or use a blind hem stitch to hide the seam.
– If the pocket has a closure, such as a button or snap, sew it in place.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully added a pocket to your skirt. Now enjoy the added functionality and style of your new creation.
