How to Sew a Pocket on a Tee Shirt: A Step-by-Step Guide
Embarking on a DIY project to add a pocket to a tee shirt can be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you’re looking to customize your wardrobe or give a new life to an old shirt, sewing a pocket is a skill that can be easily mastered with a bit of patience and practice. In this article, we will walk you through the process of how to sew a pocket on a tee shirt, ensuring that your finished product is both stylish and functional.
Materials Needed
Before you start, gather the following materials:
– A plain tee shirt (the one you want to add the pocket to)
– A pocket pattern or template (you can find free patterns online or create your own)
– Fabric for the pocket (the same fabric as the shirt or a contrasting color)
– Scissors
– Pins
– Sewing machine or needle and thread
– Iron and ironing board
– Measuring tape
Step 1: Prepare the Pocket Fabric
1. Cut out the pocket shape from the fabric using your pattern or template. If you’re using a contrasting color, make sure the fabric is large enough to accommodate the pocket’s size.
2. Iron the fabric to remove any wrinkles and prepare it for sewing.
Step 2: Mark the Pocket Placement
1. Lay the tee shirt flat on a table or ironing board.
2. Place the pocket fabric on top of the shirt, aligning it with the desired position. Use pins to secure the fabric in place.
3. Mark the pocket’s placement with a fabric pen or chalk. This will help you position the pocket accurately when sewing.
Step 3: Sew the Pocket to the Shirt
1. With the pocket fabric still pinned to the shirt, start by sewing around the edges of the pocket, leaving a small opening for turning. Use a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
2. Trim the seam allowances to 1/4 inch and clip the corners to reduce bulk.
3. Turn the pocket right side out through the opening. Use a knitting needle or pointy object to push out the corners and edges for a smooth finish.
4. Press the pocket with an iron to set the seams.
Step 4: Attach the Pocket to the Shirt
1. Pin the pocket to the shirt, making sure it’s centered and aligned with the marks you made earlier.
2. Sew around the pocket, enclosing the opening you left for turning. Use a zigzag stitch to prevent the edges from fraying.
3. If desired, topstitch around the pocket to give it a finished look.
Step 5: Finish the Pocket
1. Remove the pins and give the pocket a final press with an iron.
2. You can now enjoy your newly adorned tee shirt with a custom pocket that’s both stylish and practical.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully learned how to sew a pocket on a tee shirt. With this newfound skill, you can now create unique clothing pieces or revamp your wardrobe with personalized touches. Happy sewing!
