How to Sew Pockets into Shorts: A Step-by-Step Guide
Adding pockets to shorts can elevate their practicality and style, making them perfect for both casual and active wear. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced seamstress, sewing pockets into shorts is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few simple steps. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to sew pockets into shorts, ensuring a professional-looking finish every time.
Materials Needed:
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
– Shorts pattern or existing shorts to use as a guide
– Pockets (you can purchase pre-made pockets or make your own)
– Fabric and thread to match the shorts
– Scissors
– Measuring tape
– Pins
– Sewing machine
Step 1: Choose the Pocket Style
The first step in sewing pockets into shorts is to choose the style of pocket you want to add. Common pocket styles include side pockets, front pockets, and cargo pockets. Decide which style suits your shorts and gather the necessary materials.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the Pockets
Using your pattern or existing shorts as a guide, measure and cut the pocket pieces from your fabric. Ensure you have enough fabric to cover the pocket pieces, including seam allowances.
Step 3: Mark the Pocket Placement
Place the pocket pieces on the shorts, ensuring they are aligned with the desired position. Mark the pocket placement with pins or a fabric pen, and remove the pocket pieces.
Step 4: Sew the Pockets to the Shorts
1. With right sides together, pin the pocket pieces to the shorts at the marked placement.
2. Using a 1/4-inch seam allowance, sew the pocket pieces to the shorts along the sides and bottom, leaving the top open.
3. Clip the corners of the pocket pieces to reduce bulk.
4. Turn the pocket pieces right side out and press them flat.
Step 5: Attach the Pocket Flaps
If your pocket style includes flaps, follow these steps:
1. Cut two flaps from your fabric, ensuring they are the correct size to fit over the pocket opening.
2. Pin the flaps to the top of the pocket pieces, ensuring they are aligned with the pocket opening.
3. Using a 1/4-inch seam allowance, sew the flaps to the pocket pieces along the top edge.
4. Clip the corners of the flaps and turn them right side out.
Step 6: Hem the Pockets
1. With right sides together, pin the pocket pieces to the shorts along the top edge.
2. Using a 1/4-inch seam allowance, sew the pocket pieces to the shorts along the top edge.
3. Clip the corners of the pocket pieces and turn them right side out.
4. Press the pockets flat and hem the top edge to finish.
Step 7: Finish the Shorts
Now that the pockets are sewn into the shorts, you can finish the shorts as per your pattern or preference. This may include hemming the shorts, adding elastic waistbands, or adding any additional embellishments.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully sewn pockets into your shorts. With these simple steps, you can add practicality and style to your shorts, making them a versatile piece in your wardrobe. Happy sewing!
