How to Make a Bellows Pocket
Creating a bellows pocket is a practical and stylish addition to any project, whether it’s a handbag, a jacket, or even a pair of pants. Bellows pockets are known for their expandable design, which allows them to hold more items than traditional flat pockets. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a bellows pocket, ensuring that your project not only looks great but also functions efficiently.
Materials and Tools Needed
Before you start, gather the following materials and tools:
– Fabric: Choose a sturdy fabric that can withstand the pressure of the expanding pocket.
– Thread: A color that matches your fabric.
– Scissors: For cutting the fabric.
– Pins: To hold the fabric in place.
– Sewing machine: For stitching the fabric together.
– Measuring tape: To measure the pocket size.
– Iron: To press the fabric and create crisp edges.
Step 1: Measure and Cut the Fabric
Begin by measuring the desired size of your bellows pocket. For this example, let’s create a pocket that measures 6 inches wide and 9 inches tall. Cut two pieces of fabric to these dimensions, ensuring that the fabric is doubled for a double-sided pocket.
Step 2: Create the Pouch
Fold one of the fabric pieces in half, right sides together, and sew along the long edge, leaving a small opening for turning. Repeat this step with the second fabric piece.
Step 3: Turn the Pouch Inside Out
Turn both pouches inside out using the small opening you left. Press the seams flat with an iron.
Step 4: Measure and Cut the Lining Fabric
Measure and cut a piece of lining fabric that is slightly larger than the pouch. This will allow for a clean finish when the pocket is stitched onto the garment.
Step 5: Attach the Lining Fabric
Place the lining fabric inside the pouch, with the right sides facing each other. Pin the lining and pouch together, leaving a small opening for turning. Sew around the edges, leaving the opening unsewn.
Step 6: Turn the Pocket Right Side Out
Turn the pocket right side out through the opening you left in the lining. Press the seams flat with an iron.
Step 7: Attach the Pocket to the Garment
Position the pocket on the garment where you want it to be placed. Pin the pocket in place, ensuring that the edges are aligned with the garment’s seams. Sew the pocket to the garment using a zigzag stitch to create a flexible seam.
Step 8: Create the Bellows Effect
To create the bellows effect, fold the top edge of the pocket over to the wrong side of the garment, creating a pleat. Pin the pleat in place and sew along the edge. Repeat this step for the bottom edge of the pocket.
Step 9: Add the Pocket Flap
Cut a piece of fabric for the pocket flap, measuring slightly larger than the pocket opening. Fold the flap in half, right sides together, and sew along the long edge, leaving a small opening for turning. Turn the flap right side out and press the seams flat with an iron.
Step 10: Attach the Flap
Position the flap over the pocket opening, ensuring that the edges are aligned. Pin the flap in place and sew around the edges, securing it to the pocket.
Congratulations! You have successfully created a bellows pocket. This versatile addition to your project will not only enhance its functionality but also add a touch of elegance. Happy sewing!
