How to Sew a Pocket Onto A Shirt: A Step-by-Step Guide

Want to change the look of your old plain shirt but don’t know where to begin? Simple, just add a pocket onto it.  It might not seem much to the newbies but adding pockets can easily change the whole look of your simple shirt. 

So, if you are someone you don’t know, how to sew them properly here is my time tested techniques and tips.  I  assure you  with my techniques, you’ll be able to sew pockets on your shirts easily like a professional. 

Sounds Interesting right? Let’s begin! 

1. How to Sew Pocket Onto a Shirt? 

Alright, it’s time to get to the core of the story. If you are someone new to the art of sewing just follow these steps below.

1.1 Select Fabric

First of all, you need to choose the right kind of fabric for your pocket design.  It can be plain or it can be in a pattern design, just try to match it properly with the aesthetic of your garment.

By making sure to choose the right fabric that also compliments your shirt’s color, only then can you make doing this project worthwhile. 

Here  you definitely don’t opt for a contrasting color fabric unless you truly need it for your design. 

So, in a nutshell, You can choose any fabric you want but, I would recommend cotton because it works well in all styles. 

1.2 Cutting Fabric

Now, you need to cut the fabric of your choice to create a pocket. If you want a standard-sized pocket then you need to cut your fabric to approximately 4 inches by 8.5 inches. 

This size works well for most shirts and is often considered the standard for many styles.

1.3 Folding and Sew

Alright, on to the third step! Hopefully, you are done with cutting. Now is the time to begin sewing. First of all, You need to begin to fold the fabric in half. 

Now, make sure the right sides are together, it needs to form a rectangle. Otherwise if you need to do it again.

Then, begin sewing the fabric piece onto a pocket. Whatever method you choose to go with a sewing machine or hand sewing both will work. 

However, you wanna remember you need to stitch around the three sides of the rectangle while leaving with a small opening on one side.

1.4 Turn and Press

Okay for the fourth step you need to begin to turn the pocket right side out through the opening. Here you don’t wanna mess up as it will be very hard to fix so, make sure to do it carefully. Use your fingers to push out the corners for a clean finish. 

After that, just press it flat with an iron. This step ensures that your pocket looks neat always. 

1.5 Pin and Sew

Place your sewn pocket onto your shirt and after that pin it to secure in position. This step ensures that your pocket does not lose its position. 

Now, you need to sew (by machine or by hand) your pocket onto your shirt. Top stitch around the three sides of the pocket. Don’t forget to close the small opening you left earlier. This step ensures your stitching is neat. 

2. Add Personalize Touches

To make your shirt pocket look more professional, you can add some personal touches of your own. Here I’ll be sharing some of my favorite ideas with you guys: 

2.1. Different Stitching

First of all, You can afford to experiment with you garment. It makes sense to then utilize different stitching and patterns around the pocket edges. 

If you do this right the contrast will certainly help you add a unique touch to the overall look of your shirt. 

2.2. Angled or Rounded

Second, You can also try angled or rounded instead of the standard rectangular pocket, it will give your shirt a distinctive appearance.

2.3. Lined Pocket

Third, lined pockets are a new trend in the market but they have proven their worth. 

That’s why Instead of pressing the raw edges to the wrong side of the pocket try creating a lined pocket if you feel like it. 

This will certainly give your shirt a professional look. 

2.4. Pocket Flaps

Fourth, create flap pockets instead of standard pockets. Then you can even attach a button in these types of pockets. 

2.5. Contrasting Fabric

Fifth, instead of using the same fabric, try to create a contrast in the pocket flap. This will increase the visual appeal of your shirt. ( you don’t wanna stand too much. Remember a good pocked should blend in) 

2.6. Patch Pocket

And tip is about the patch pockets. If you truly want a rustic look then consider making a patch pocket instead of a standard pocket. While it may not be like for all, It can give your shirt a casual look too.

Closing Thoughts

You don’t need search for the question “How to Sew a Pocket Onto A Shirt” ! As long as you have the knowledge and methodology you can easily sew pockets onto your shirts.

Hopefully, by following our pocket tutorial you were able to explore different styles and shapes for your shirt pockets with pocket pattern and zig zag stitch to add a unique touch to your garment.

Lastly, remember to consider the seam allowances, folded edge, delicate fabrics like knit fabric, pocket edge with straight stitch.

So, gather your materials and start sewing pockets onto your shirts effortlessly today!