Patch pockets add a decorative, personal touch to clothing
while also serving as a functional pouch. Learn how to sew a patch pocket in
just a few easy steps.
What Is a Patch Pocket?
A patch pocket is a sewn-on fabric piece with an open top
edge that serves as an extra pocket on a piece of clothing. There are various
pocket sizes and patterns available, allowing the sewer to personalize their
jeans, jackets, blouses, dresses, and other articles of clothing. You can
either use your existing clothing as a template for what color and fabric to
use, or you can get creative and add unique materials and fabric scraps to make
your outfit stand out.
How to Sew a Patch Pocket
Gather your materials for sewing patch pockets correctly,
including a sewing machine, iron, pins, and fabric scissors. Then take the
following simple steps:
1. Design a sewing pattern. Cut a sewing pattern piece in
the size and shape you desire using marking paper. You can make a pocket
pattern that is square, rounded, or pointed. Make sure to account for seam
allowances in your design.
2. Put your fabric together and cut it. Choose your
material, then measure it with a ruler and mark it in pencil or tailor's chalk
where you want to cut it. For a cleaner cut, use fabric scissors.
3. Stitch the fabric. Set your sewing machine to zigzag
stitch, then serge the bottom edge and each side of the pocket to prevent
fraying. Leave the fabric square's top alone.
4. Fold the serged edges in half. Fold the three raw edges
up a quarter inch onto the wrong side of the fabric after sewing them (the side
that will face the inside of the pocket). To create clean lines, use an iron to
press these sides down.
5. Design your top fold. Fold the top of the pocket over
twice to the wrong side based on the desired pocket height.
6. Sew the top fold. To seal your top fold, sew closer to
the edge. You can customize the edge stitching style and length. Carefully
guide your stitching line to create a parallel line to the top of the fold. The
top fold should then be ironed to secure its position.
7. Secure your pocket with a pin. Decide where you want your
patch to go, then pin your pocket with the right side facing out. Keep the pocket's
top edge open.
8. Topstitch the pocket closed. Topstitch the pocket,
beginning with the top fold corner, once it is complete. Sew each of the three
sides (left, bottom, and right) by topstitching one-eighth inch from the
fabric's edge. Finish by backstitching and ironing the pocket.
4 Tips for Adding Patch Pockets
You can ensure a smooth sewing process by following these
quick tips:
1. Before sewing, clean your fabric. It will be easier to
sew if you wash and tumble-dry your fabric. Dry it until it is barely damp,
then iron it to make it more flexible.
2. Draw a straight fold line. Create your fold line with
care so that you have a clear runway for sewing later. Once you've determined
your fold lines, press them to secure them.
3. Make use of fusible interfacing. For added structure and reinforcement, add a strip of fusible interfacing to the top of the pocket. Fusible interfacing is a thick material with a heat-activated adhesive on one side.
4. Scrub and snip Wash your clothes after sewing on the patch pocket. If it can withstand a wash and tumble, your patch should be perfectly safe to use. After the fabric has dried, snip any frayed ends from the pocket's bottom corners or sides.
