Patch Pocket DIY

All of the sudden it seems like bloggers, and friends everywhere are wishing for autumn to arrive. I too am anxious for the new season, and the new looks that come with it. While digging through my closet recently, in search of fall garb, I pulled out an old solid navy wool skirt. I'm all for basics in my wardrobe, but this seemed a little extra basic and so I decided to add pockets to the front for a little visual interest. Today, learn how to add patch pockets for your own tried and true basics.

Step 1: Grab your supplies. You'll need a sewing machine, and thread (or just needle and thread to do it by hand). Scrap fabric in a similar weight to your skirt (at least 10x10), trim to compliment everything, pencil, pins, and scissors.

Step 2: Cut your pocket fabric into two 5" squares. This should make the pockets large enough for you to put your hands in. Fold the square in half and using your pencil draw a curve from the center fold to the edge. Cut along the curve and unfold for your pocket shape. Use your first pocket as your template for the second and cut it out.

Step 3: Now that your pockets are cut out grab the trim you plan on using, lay it across the top of your pocket, and cut to length. I left a little bit of extra on either end just to be safe.

Step 4: Layout the pockets on top of your skirt so that you can find the right placement. I just eye-balled mine but if you want to be exact you can grab a tape measurer and measure the same distance from the top and side of the skirt for each pocket. Place a pin in your skirt where you want the center of the pocket to be.

Step 5: Grab your needle and thread, or sewing machine, and folding the edge of your pockets in 1/4," sew all the way around the pocket to finish the edge. Next grab your trim and sew it to the top of the pocket. NOTE: I used a standard straight stitch for this entire project.

Step 6: Now that the edges of your pocket are finished, transfer it back to the skirt (using your pins from Step 4 as your guide) and pin the pocket in place. You can either sew on top of or right next to the stitched edges of the pocket to secure it in place.

Step 7: Repeat step 6 for the other pocket, and iron everything down to smooth it out. You now have cute patch pockets ready for use!

This project is really easy and perfect for the colder months ahead! Enjoy. big kiss, bekuh