In Seam Pocket Tutorial...

An in seam pocket is so easy to add to pants, skirts or shorts. This tutorial will show you how to easily add an in seam pocket to a project you are making.

The first thing to decide is the shape and size of the pocket. Typically, an in seam pocket is narrow at the top, curving down to a wider bottom. Here's the shape I made mine. I just drew it freehand a couple of times, till I was happy with the shape. Cut two pieces for each pocket, making sure to flip the pocket piece when you cut the second one.

Decide where you want to place the pocket, making sure you allow room for the waistband. I placed the top point of this pocket, 3" from the top of the side seam.

• Sew one pocket piece to the front at the side seam.
• Neaten the edge.
• Fold the pocket piece out and press the seam towards the pocket.

• Topstitch 1/8" from the seam.

Repeat by sewing the other pocket piece to the back at the side seam.

With right sides facing, sew the front to the back at the side seam. Make the seam allowance for the side seam, just slightly larger than the seam allowance for the pocket.

• Sew down the side seam, around the pocket and continue down the side seam.
• Backstitch at the top and bottom of the pocket.
• Neaten the seam.

That's all there is to it. Continue sewing your garment.

I added one in seam pocket to each side seam on these 3/4 pants. I know the pockets look like they belong to a different garment, but they do belong to the 3/4 pants with pleated cuffs. The photos were taken under different lighting conditions. I know I've said it before, but I really must learn to use all the functions on my camera.

I'm adding the in seam pocket tutorial to the Sewing Tips and Techniques link party, here on Threading My Way.

... Pam