How to Make a Gusseted Pocket
Gusseted pockets create a unique shape with more volume at the top of the pocket than at the bottom. The gusset bell shape is created from making small pleats at the bottom of the pocket. These pockets can be attached to school bags, jeans, jackets and dresses and can be made using virtually any type of fabric. Depending on the type of fabric you use, you can create different styles of pocket, from chic to utilitarian.
Things You'll Need
- 1/2 yard of material
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
- Pins
- Sewing machine
- Sewing notions
- Iron
Instructions
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1
Cut out a small rectangle of cloth, measuring about 6 inches wide by 5 inches high. Use a measuring tape to get the correct measurement. Make a larger rectangle if you want a rather large pocket, or decrease the size to create a daintier pocket.
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2
Hem all four sides of the pocket. Fold over 3/8 inch of cloth on each side so that the right side of the cloth folds back and touches the wrong side of the cloth. The raw edges should not be visible from the right side of the cloth. Pin each side in place as you fold over the cloth, and sew in place using a sewing machine.
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3
Lay the hemmed pocket on a flat surface with the long sides of the pocket facing towards you horizontally. Create two or three pleats on the bottom of the pocket, using about half of the fabric to do so. Evenly space each pleat out so that the pocket starts to form a slight curve at the bottom. Pin each pleat in place using fabric pins.
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4
Sew the pleats into place by running the machine over the bottom hem along where you pinned the pleats.
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5
Turn your iron on and allow the iron to heat up. Iron the gusseted pocket. The pocket will be ready to apply to any garment. Place the pocket right side up on the garment or bag and sew into place using a sewing machine or stitch by hand. Remember to leave the top side of the pocket open, so you can use the pocket.
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References
- Photo Credit PhotoObjects.net/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
