Are you in need of some extra pocket space? Look no further than sewing your own cargo pocket! Adding a cargo pocket to a pair of pants, shorts, or a bag can provide not only added storage but also a stylish touch. With a few materials and some basic sewing skills, you can easily create your own cargo pocket.
In this article, you will learn how to sew a cargo pocket step-by-step. You will:
- Gather the materials needed
- Choose the size and placement of your pocket
- Cut the fabric
- Sew the pocket
- Add any additional features
- Finish it off with some final touches
With these simple instructions, you will be able to create a practical and fashionable cargo pocket that will come in handy for all your storage needs. So, grab your materials and let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Gather the Materials You Need
To get started, you’ll need to gather all of the necessary materials for sewing your cargo pocket.
The first thing you need is a fabric of your choice, preferably a sturdy one that can withstand the wear and tear of a cargo pocket. You also need matching threads, scissors, pins, a ruler, and a sewing machine or a needle and thread.
Make sure to measure the dimensions of the pocket you want to sew, so you know how much fabric you’ll need. You’ll also need to decide on the shape and size of the pocket, whether it’s rectangular or square, and how deep you want it to be.
It’s always a good idea to sketch out the design on paper, so you have a clear idea of what you’re going to make.
Once you’ve gathered all the materials, you’re ready to start sewing your cargo pocket. Remember to take your time and follow the instructions carefully.
With a little bit of patience and practice, you’ll soon have a functional and stylish cargo pocket that you can be proud of.
Choose the Size and Placement of Your Pocket
First, imagine yourself reaching for your phone or wallet while wearing your favorite pair of pants. Now, think about the frustration of not having a pocket in the perfect place. This is why adding a cargo pocket to your pants can be a game changer. Before you start sewing, it’s important to choose the size and placement of your pocket.
To begin, consider the function of your pocket. Will you be using it to hold your phone, wallet, or other items? This will help determine the size of your pocket. A larger pocket may be better for carrying bulkier items, while a smaller pocket may suffice for just a phone or keys. Take measurements of your items and make sure the pocket will be able to accommodate them comfortably.
Next, think about the placement of your pocket. A cargo pocket can be placed on the side of your pants, on the thigh, or even on the back. It’s important to consider the balance and symmetry of your pants when deciding on placement. A table can help you visualize and compare different options. For example:
| Placement | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Side | Easy access, balanced look | May interfere with movement |
| Thigh | Convenient, can hold larger items | May look bulky |
| Back | Hidden, good for valuables | Can be uncomfortable when sitting |
By taking the time to choose the right size and placement for your cargo pocket, you can ensure that it not only looks great but also serves its intended purpose. So, grab a measuring tape and start planning your pocket placement today!
Cut the Fabric
Now that you’ve chosen the size and placement of your pocket, it’s time to cut the fabric.
You’ll need to cut three pieces: the main pocket piece, the flap piece, and the pocket facing.
The main pocket piece will be the largest and will form the base of the pocket, while the flap piece will be slightly smaller and will fold over the top of the pocket.
The pocket facing will be the smallest and will be used to finish the edges of the pocket.
Main Pocket Piece
Before beginning, make sure your fabric is cut to the correct measurements for the main pocket piece, advises the expert seamstress. This piece is the largest section of the cargo pocket and will serve as the base for the pockets’ design. It’s crucial to cut it accurately to achieve a neat and professional final product.
To create the main pocket piece, fold your fabric in half with the right sides facing inwards. Use a fabric marker or chalk to draw the shape of the main pocket piece onto the fabric. The shape should be rectangular with two curved edges at the bottom. Cut along the lines you’ve drawn, making sure to stay as close to the lines as possible.
Once you’ve cut the main pocket piece, you’re ready to move on to the next step in creating your cargo pocket.
Flap Piece
To ensure your flap piece fits properly, you’ll need to measure and cut it to the correct dimensions. The flap piece should be slightly wider than the main pocket piece, and its height should be the same as the main pocket piece.
Here’s how to make the flap piece:
- Measure and mark a piece of fabric that’s 1 inch wider than the main pocket piece and the same height as the main pocket piece.
- Cut out the fabric along the markings to create the flap piece.
Once you have your flap piece cut to the correct dimensions, it’s time to add some details to it.
A cargo pocket flap typically has a curved edge and a Velcro closure. Here’s how to add those details:
- Using a curved ruler or a round object like a cup, draw a curve along the top edge of the flap piece.
- Cut along the curved line to create the curved edge.
- Sew a strip of Velcro to the underside of the flap piece, near the curved edge.
- Sew the other half of the Velcro to the main pocket piece, directly opposite the Velcro on the flap piece.
- Fold the flap piece over the main pocket piece and press down on the Velcro to secure it in place.
Pocket Facing
Let’s jazz up the look of our pocket by adding a facing that’ll give it a clean and polished finish.
The pocket facing is a piece of fabric that’s sewn to the top edge of the pocket bag, and it can be visible or hidden depending on your preference. To create the pocket facing, cut a piece of fabric that’s the same width as your pocket bag and about 2 inches tall.
Sew the pocket facing to the top edge of your pocket bag with the right sides facing each other. Use a 1/4 inch seam allowance and press the seam towards the facing.
Then, fold the facing over to the wrong side of the pocket and press it flat. Topstitch along the top edge of the pocket to secure the facing in place.
Now you’ve got a professional-looking cargo pocket with a neat and tidy finish!
Sew the Pocket
Now that we have pinned the pocket in place, we can start sewing it onto the pants. Begin by sewing the sides and bottom of the pocket. Use a ⅝ inch seam allowance and make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam.
Once the sides and bottom are sewn, it’s time to attach the pocket flap. Fold the flap in half with right sides together and sew along the two short sides, leaving the top edge open. Trim the corners and turn the flap right side out. Then, place the flap on top of the pocket, aligning the raw edges. Sew along the top edge of the pocket, attaching the flap to the pocket.
It’s time to create the box pleat in the center of the pocket. Refer to the table below for specific measurements based on the size of your pocket. Fold the pocket in half with the right sides together and pin the pleat in place. Sew along the sides of the pocket, making sure to catch the pleat in the seam. Trim any excess thread and turn the pocket right side out. Your cargo pocket is now complete!
| Pocket Width | Pleat Depth | Pleat Length |
|---|---|---|
| 6 inches | 1 inch | 1.5 inches |
| 7 inches | 1.25 inches | 1.75 inches |
| 8 inches | 1.5 inches | 2 inches |
| 9 inches | 1.75 inches | 2.25 inches |
| 10 inches | 2 inches | 2.5 inches |
Add any Additional Features
Looking to customize your pants even further? Consider adding some extra features to make them truly unique!
Once you’ve sewn the cargo pocket onto your pants, you can add any additional features you desire. Some popular options include flaps, zippers, and snaps.
If you want to add a flap to your cargo pocket, cut out a rectangle of fabric that is slightly larger than the pocket opening. Hem three sides of the rectangle, leaving one side open. Then, sew the open side of the flap onto the top edge of the pocket. You can add a button or velcro closure to keep the flap securely in place.
Another option is to add a zipper to your cargo pocket. Cut out a piece of fabric that is slightly larger than the pocket opening. Hem three sides of the fabric, leaving one side open. Then, sew the open side of the fabric onto the top edge of the pocket. Sew a zipper onto the top edge of the fabric, making sure to sew it on both sides so it opens and closes smoothly.
You can add snaps to your cargo pocket for a secure closure. Cut out a rectangle of fabric that is slightly larger than the pocket opening. Hem three sides of the rectangle, leaving one side open. Then, sew the open side of the fabric onto the top edge of the pocket. Sew snaps onto the top edge of the fabric so you can easily snap it closed.
With these additional features, your cargo pocket will be both functional and stylish!
Finishing Touches
Now that you’ve sewn on your cargo pocket, it’s time for some finishing touches.
First, trim any excess threads with your scissors or thread snips to give the pocket a clean look.
Next, use your iron to press the pocket, making sure it lays flat and looks neat.
These simple steps will give your cargo pocket a professional finish.
Trimming Excess Threads
To achieve a clean and professional look, it’s best to carefully trim any excess threads from the cargo pocket. After sewing each seam, take a few seconds to inspect the area for any loose threads.
Use a small pair of scissors or thread snips to carefully cut any stray threads as close to the fabric as possible. Be sure to avoid cutting through any of the fabric or seams.
Once you have finished trimming all of the excess threads, take a moment to check the pocket for any missed threads. It’s always better to catch any loose threads before they have a chance to become tangled or caught on anything.
By taking the time to trim and inspect your pocket, you’ll ensure that it looks neat and tidy, and will last for a long time.
Pressing the Pocket
Achieving a professional and polished look for your garment requires taking the time to press the finished pocket with a hot iron. This step is often overlooked, but it can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your cargo pocket.
Start by placing the pocket flat on your ironing board, making sure that any seams are lying flat and that the pocket is smooth and wrinkle-free. Next, heat up your iron to the appropriate temperature for the fabric you’re working with.
Gently press the iron onto the pocket, starting from the center and working your way outwards. Be careful not to slide the iron around, as this can cause unwanted creases or wrinkles. Once you’ve pressed the entire pocket, flip it over and repeat the process on the other side.
This will help to give your pocket a crisp and clean finish that’ll make it look like it was professionally made.
Enjoy Your New Cargo Pocket!
Congratulations on your new cargo pocket! It’s sure to add both style and functionality to your garment. Now that you’ve completed sewing your cargo pocket, it’s time to enjoy it.
Here are some things you can do to maximize your experience:
-
Take a moment to admire your handiwork. You’ve just created something with your own two hands! That’s an incredible feeling, and you should be proud of yourself.
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Try on the garment with your new pocket and see how it feels. Move around in it, put some things in the pocket, and see how it affects the overall fit and balance of the garment. You might be surprised at how much this small addition can change the entire look and feel of the piece.
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Show it off! Whether you’re wearing your new pocketed garment out and about or just showing it off to friends and family, don’t be afraid to let people know that you made it yourself. You never know who might be inspired to take up sewing themselves.
So go ahead and enjoy your new cargo pocket! You’ve put in the time and effort to create something unique and useful, and you deserve to bask in the satisfaction of a job well done. Who knows, this might be the start of a whole new hobby or even career for you. The possibilities are endless when you have the skills to create something from scratch.
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