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Doll Sewing Tutorials

How to Add a Basic Pocket

Hi everybody! Today, I show you how to add a super simple pocket to an existing skirt. This is really fast to do, and adds a fun pop of color (and practicality)!

GIVEAWAY UPDATE: we have a winner! She says, "My favorite pocket EVER was a welt pocket I put in a plaid outfit while I was in college. It was in a cape which matched a skirt and vest & all the plaid matched so the pocket was invisible but wonderfully practical." Marian, that is a great story, and I'm sure that pocket was spectacular! We'll be in touch via email soon. :)

All you need is some fabric, and a skirt. (You can also grab some cute trim, like I did -- but the trim is optional.)

Figure out the size and shape of your pocket. I like to do this by cutting up scrap paper, until I get something I'm happy with. This pocket is a rectangle 1.5" high x 1.75" wide. (If you're not sure about where to start, you can always use your doll's hand as a guide. :) 

Trace around your pocket template onto another piece of scrap paper, and add 1/4" extra to the sides ("seam allowance") that you can fold over later. I added it to both sides and the bottom, but not the top, since I wanted the raw edge look along the top of my pocket.

Cut out the pocket!

If you're using trim, now is the time to sew it down along the top of the pocket.

If you aren't using trim, and you left some extra fabric along the top of the pocket, fold it over now and sew that down.

Press under the other three edges of the pocket.

Carefully place the pocket on the skirt, and pin it down. You can put a hard plastic ruler, or a piece of cardboard, inside the skirt; this will help make sure you just pin through the top layer. 

Sew around the folded edges of the pocket. Don't forget to backstitch at either end of the top of the pocket! 

And that's it -- congratulations :)

Thanks everyone, and have fun with this!

For Pixie Faire,
Melinda

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49 Comments

My favorite pocket is the one in the jeans or sweats I happen to be wearing at the time. I have severe allergies and need to keep a hankie or tissue close by at all times.

Bette

My favorite pocket EVER is my coat pocket! There always seems to be something super-special in it each time I put it on — something I’ve forgotten I’ve put in there!

Lea Ann

My favorite pocket ever was made by a seamstress in a third world country. The beautiful blue skirt had pockets placed in the side seam made with flour sacking and not the skirt fabric.

Gail

My favorite pockets are the ones in the front of a nice warm sweatshirt. Keeps your hands warm in the cold and makes you feel all toasty.

Kimberly

My favorite pocket ever is the one that has money in it!

Denise

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