How to Open Pockets Sewn Shut
Opening pockets that have been sewn shut can be a tricky task, especially if you’re not sure how to proceed. Whether it’s a pocket on a pair of jeans, a dress, or a jacket, the process can vary depending on the fabric and the stitching. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to safely and effectively open a pocket that has been sewn shut.
1. Gather Your Tools
Before you start, gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a pair of sharp scissors, a seam ripper, and possibly a needle and thread if you need to resew the pocket. Make sure your scissors are sharp and the seam ripper is in good condition to avoid damaging the fabric.
2. Identify the Type of Seam
Determine whether the pocket is stitched using a flat felled seam, a French seam, or a traditional seam. Each type requires a different approach to opening.
3. Opening a Flat Felled Seam
For a flat felled seam, which is often used on jeans, locate the stitching along the side of the pocket. Carefully use your seam ripper to start separating the threads. Once you’ve opened a small section, you can continue to use the seam ripper or scissors to gently pull the threads apart, revealing the opening.
4. Opening a French Seam
A French seam is a bit more delicate, as it involves two layers of fabric sandwiched together. Begin by separating the top layer of fabric from the bottom layer. Use your seam ripper to carefully cut along the stitching line. Once separated, you can gently pull the layers apart to open the pocket.
5. Opening a Traditional Seam
A traditional seam is the most straightforward to open. Simply use your seam ripper or scissors to carefully cut along the stitching line, separating the layers of fabric.
6. Resewing the Pocket (Optional)
If the pocket needs to be resewn, thread your needle with a matching thread and knot the end. Start by hand-stitching the edges of the pocket to prevent fraying. Then, continue to sew the pocket closed using a whipstitch or another appropriate stitch.
7. Finishing Touches
Once the pocket is open and, if necessary, resewn, make sure to iron the fabric to remove any wrinkles and set the stitches. This will give your garment a polished look.
In conclusion, opening pockets that have been sewn shut may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it’s a task that anyone can accomplish. Whether you’re fixing a garment or learning a new skill, following these steps will help you navigate the process with ease.
