How to Make a Pocket Protector

Though originally invented as an honest attempt to protect shirt pockets from leaky pens, pocket protectors are now considered a symbol of nerdiness. Pocket protectors consist of a plain and flexible, yet waterproof, insert designed to line a pocket, making them a simple project to create on your own. Make a subtle protector or display your geekdom with pride by decorating your protector or making it from brightly colored materials.

Things You'll Need

• Shirt with breast pocket
• Dressmaker's tape measure or string
• Drafting paper
• Ruler
• Craft sheet vinyl
• Scissors
• Vinyl adhesive

Instructions

1. Measure the inside of your pocket. Lay the shirt flat on a hard, smooth surface and measure the height and width of the pocket using a dressmaker's tape measure (if you don't have this, use a piece of string, then measure the string against a ruler). Make a note of the measurements.

2. Draft a paper pattern for the pocket protector. Draw a rectangle that's one half inch less wide than the pocket measurement (this will make it narrow enough to fit comfortably inside) and twice as tall as the pocket, plus four inches (this will become the overlapping flap that folds over the front of the pocket). Cut out the paper shape.

3. Measure and cut out the protector. Place the paper pattern over the sheet vinyl and trace around it with permanent marker. Cut this shape out of the vinyl using scissors.

4. Fold the protector into shape. Fold the bottom of the vinyl rectangle up to meet the top. Press the crease in the bottom to form a wrinkle. Fold down top, two inch edge of the front folded half and crease this as well.

5. Apply glue along the inside edges of the folded vinyl along the right and left sides. Glue from the bottom folded crease up to the point where the front half of the vinyl rectangle folds into the two inch flap. Run your finger firmly along each newly-glued edge of the pocket protector to seal it. Wipe away any excess glue from the edges using a damp rag.

6. Let the glue dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.

7. Stack weight (such as several hardcover books or a heavy box) on the protector to press the creases into it permanently. Leave the weight on the protector overnight.