Sewing A Pocket On A T-Shirt: Easy Fabric Pocket Guide

Sewing a fabric pocket onto a T-shirt is a great way to add some style and functionality to your wardrobe. Whether you want to add a pocket to a finished T-shirt or sew one on as you make the shirt, this is a simple process that can be done by hand or with a sewing machine. The first step is to decide on the shape and size of your pocket. Common pocket shapes include rectangles and rectangles with a small triangle at the bottom. Once you've decided on a shape, you'll need to cut out your pocket pattern and pin it to your fabric. Cut out your fabric, fold over the edges, and iron the folds in place. Then, sew the top hem of your pocket and pin the pocket to your T-shirt in the desired location. Finally, sew the pocket onto the shirt, being careful not to sew through both sides of the shirt. And that's it! You've added a pocket to your T-shirt.

Choosing the type of pocket

When choosing the type of pocket to sew onto a T-shirt, there are several factors to consider, such as functionality, aesthetics, and the level of difficulty of the sewing project. Here are some options to consider:

Patch Pocket

A patch pocket is a popular choice for T-shirts as it is a simple way to add functionality and a casual look to your T-shirt. This type of pocket is typically sewn onto the outside of the shirt and can be placed on the chest or lower quadrant, depending on your preference. Patch pockets can be rectangular or rectangular with a small triangle at the bottom. The triangle adds a bit of interest to the design and can be made shallower or steeper, depending on your taste.

Secret Patch Pocket

If you want to add a pocket to the inside of a T-shirt without any visible stitches on the outside, you can consider a secret patch pocket. This type of pocket is more challenging to execute as you need to consider the weight distribution of the items you plan to put in the pocket. The stitches may pull on the fabric and affect the drape of the shirt. One solution is to attach the pocket to a seam that already has forces pulling in the same direction, such as the side seam. You can also add a tab or strip of fabric up to the armpit or shoulder to provide support and prevent odd pulling.

Expandable Pocket

If you need a pocket that can accommodate various items, consider an expandable pocket. This type of pocket has extra fabric that allows it to expand. Examples of expandable pockets include tucked pockets, gathered pockets, and accordion pockets. The cargo pocket, commonly seen on pants, is also an expandable pocket with a flap.

Decorative Pocket

Pockets can also be added as a decorative element to your T-shirt. For example, a cowl pocket features folds of fabric draped around the opening like a scarf, adding a stylish touch to your garment.

Cutting the fabric

Planning Your Pocket

Firstly, decide on the shape of your pocket. The most common shapes are rectangular or rectangular with a small triangle at the bottom. The triangle adds a bit of complexity, but it's a nice feature. You can use an L-square ruler to help you draw straight lines if you have one, but it's not essential.

Next, you need to decide on the size of your pocket. This will depend on the size of your T-shirt, your chest size, and your personal preference. You can use a pocket from an existing shirt as a template or cut out various pocket templates and hold them up to your chest until you find a size that suits you.

Creating a Template

Once you've decided on the shape and size, draw your pocket onto a piece of paper, including seam allowances. For a rectangular pocket, draw a rectangle with the dimensions you chose, adding 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) to the top for the pocket hem and 3/8 inch (1 cm) to the other three sides.

If you're adding a triangle to the bottom, mark the centre point of the bottom edge and then mark another centre point 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) below. Draw lines from the bottom corners of the rectangle to this new point. This is the final size of your pocket template.

Now, it's time to cut your fabric. Pin your template to the fabric you plan to use for the pocket and carefully cut out the fabric to match the template. Ensure you cut through both layers of fabric if you are using a folded piece.

Folding and Pressing

After cutting, you will need to fold and press the seams of your pocket. Fold the sides of the fabric between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch (0.6 cm and 1.3 cm). Start with the sides and bottom of the pocket, and then fold the top last. Press each fold with an iron to create crisp edges.

Final Preparation

The final step in preparing your pocket piece is to sew the hem at the top. This will be the open part of your pocket. Sew close to the edge, using either a straight stitch or a twin-needle stitch if you plan to hem your T-shirt that way.

Now your fabric is cut, folded, pressed, and partially sewn, and it's ready for attaching to your T-shirt!

Folding the seams

Firstly, fold the sides of your fabric between 1/4" and 1/2". Start by folding the sides and bottom of the pocket first, and then move on to the top. This top fold should be slightly larger, ranging from 1/2" to 1". Secure these folds with pins.

Next, use an iron to press down all the folds. Remove the pins as you go, if necessary. This step will ensure that the folds are crisp and neat, providing a good base for sewing.

Now, you can sew the hem at the top of the pocket. This will be the open part of the pocket. Use a straight stitch or a twin needle stitch, and then press and steam the stitch line to smooth out any waviness.

If you are adding a triangle to the bottom of your pocket, there is an extra step. Snip the point of the triangle close to, but not past, the stitch line of the corners. This will help the seam allowance lay flat.

Your pocket piece is now ready to be attached to the T-shirt!

Attaching the pocket to the t-shirt

Now that you have your pocket piece ready, it's time to attach it to your T-shirt! Here is a step-by-step guide:

Prepare the T-Shirt:

Wash your T-shirt before starting this project. This is important to prevent any shrinkage or colour bleeding that could ruin your hard work.

Determine Pocket Placement:

Decide where you want your pocket to sit on the T-shirt. Pockets on T-shirts are typically placed on the left side of the chest, over the bust apex. However, feel free to place it wherever you prefer! You can use a ready-made T-shirt with a pocket as a reference for placement.

Pin the Pocket in Place:

Put on your T-shirt and pin the pocket to the desired location. Take off the T-shirt and lay it flat. Adjust the pocket slightly to ensure it's straight and aligned correctly. Pin the pocket down, making sure the pins only go through the pocket and the front side of the T-shirt.

Sew the Pocket:

Make sure only the pocket and the front side of the T-shirt are under your sewing machine. Start sewing from one side of the pocket, getting as close to the edge of the fabric as possible. Sew around the edge of the pocket with one continuous seam. Remember not to sew the top of the pocket shut! Leave the top open, as this will be the pocket's opening.

Reinforce the Pocket (Optional):

Reinforcing the pocket is essential if it will be used frequently, as it can slowly begin to unravel and cause a hole in the T-shirt. One common method is to create triangles on the top corners of the pocket, distributing the pressure over a larger area. You can also use bartacks, which are quick and easy, or backstitching for lighter strain.

Finalize and Press:

Give your new pocket a good press with steam to set the stitches and smooth out any wrinkles or waviness. Now your pocket is complete, and you can finish sewing the rest of your T-shirt!

Reinforcing the pocket

Using Interfacing

Before attaching the pocket to the t-shirt, apply interfacing to the back of the pocket fabric. Cut the interfacing to match the size and shape of the pocket. You can use sew-in interfacing and baste it in place, or opt for fusible interfacing by pressing it onto the pocket. This will provide extra support and prevent the pocket from ripping under strain.

Reinforcing Fabric

Another approach is to reinforce the fabric behind the pocket. Add a small piece of sturdy fabric, such as self-fabric or denim, at the pocket corners on the inside of the t-shirt. This will distribute the weight and reduce the strain on the fabric. You can also reinforce the entire pocket area by adding a layer of sturdy fabric underneath, extending the edges to the seams to avoid visible stitching.

Stitching Techniques

When attaching the pocket, consider using reinforcing stitches such as the triangular tack or bartack stitch near the top corners of the pocket. These stitches provide extra strength and help secure the pocket in place. Additionally, sewing a longer triangle at the pocket corner can spread out the strain and reduce the vulnerability of the fabric to tearing.

Alternative Pocket Types

If you're concerned about the weight of the items you plan to carry, consider using an inseam pocket instead of a patch pocket. Inseam pockets are less visible from the outside and can distribute weight more effectively, reducing the strain on the fabric.

Rivets and Buttons

For heavier-duty items like jeans, you can use rivets at the pocket corners to provide additional support. Alternatively, consider sewing small flat buttons at the corners on the inside of the pocket to reinforce the fabric.

Frequently asked questions