How to Add Inseam Pockets to a Skirt or Dress
Everybody loves pockets! Learn how to add inseam pockets to your skirts and dresses! This small detail can turn pieces you like into pieces you love! Follow my tutorial and become a pocket master.
Tools and materials:
- Fabric
- Tracing paper
- Pencil
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
- Pins
- Sewing machine
Method 1
There are three different ways to get the perfect pocket template. The first is using an existing pocket as a pattern. Just make sure that when you trace it, you add 1.5cm (0.59) of seam allowance.
For this method, all you need is a pencil, ruler, and tracing paper.
Method 2
The second method is to trace around your hand in a sort of kidney bean shape. Position your hand downwards and add a straight line where your wrist is.
Method 3
The third method is to just use a pocket template from a sewing pattern.
When using a template, fold the fabric over, right sides together, and pin the template down. Grab a pair of scissors and cut around the template. Cutting on a double layer of fabric ensures that the pieces will match.
Serge the raw edges
Zig-zag stitch or use a different method that you like to sew the raw edges of all four pocket pieces.
Mark the placement
Before you can sew the pockets onto the skirt, mark from the top of the skirt where you want the pockets to start. Once you have the placement, pin and sew each pocket piece to the straight edge of the skirt Make sure that the distance from the waist to the pocket is the same for all four pieces. Then sew from the top of the pocket to the bottom on the straight edge of the skirt. Make sure that the right side of the pocket faces the right side of the skirt and repeat on the other side.
Sew on the pockets
Next, pin and sew the side seams of the skirt but make a small detour around the pocket leaving the pocket opening unsewn. You don’t want the pocket opening to be too big so sew a little of the side seam by the opening closed on either side of the pocket.
Try on the skirt to make sure the pockets are just as you wanted them. Finish your skirt or dress and enjoy wearing the piece with your new inseam pockets. I would love to hear what sewing project you plan on trying out this new skill on! Let me know in the comments!
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I will definitely try this project. Thankyou so much.
Have you, or any other travelers have tried to make a money belt that you wear under your clothes. I'm going to be touring this summer, and the belt was recommended for additional security.
When I acquire a thirft store dress, I remove the shoulder pads, unsew them, and use them as the pocket facings. That way the portion of the pocket that tends to show will match the garment, so it's not as obvious. I use remnants or leftover scraps to make the rest of the pocket.
Pro tip: cut to pocket as one piece, and use the fold of fabric on the innermost part. Makes it easier to align the edges when you're applying it to the seam allowance of the garment.