If you’ve ever wished your bag had just a bit more organization, you’re in the right place. Today, I’m sharing a quick and easy way to add a slip pocket to any bag lining, taking your handmade tote to the next level. Whether you’re sewing for yourself or creating a gift, this little addition is sure to make your bag more functional and fabulous!
And now… on with the show….
Why Add a Slip Pocket?
A slip pocket not only makes your bag more organized but also adds a professional touch. It’s perfect for stashing your phone, keys, or even a notebook. Best of all, you can make the pocket any size you need, allowing for endless customization.
What You’ll Need
- Pocket Fabric: A piece slightly larger than your desired pocket size.
- Interfacing (optional): I always interface my pockets with SF 101 – it just helps with sturdiness and looks gives a crisp, professional look.
- Ruler: To measure and mark.
- Sewing Supplies: Thread, rotary cutter/scissors, pins/clips, and your sewing machine.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a Slip Pocket
1. Determine Pocket Size
Decide how large you want your pocket to be. A good rule of thumb is to make the pocket slightly smaller than the width of the bag’s lining panel.
For example:
- A small tote might need a 6” x 8” pocket.
- A larger tote could use an 8” x 10” pocket.
2. Cut Your Fabric
Cut your fabric piece twice the desired height of the pocket plus ½” for seam allowances. For example, for a 6” x 8” pocket, cut a piece 12½” x 9”. For this post, I’m adding slip pockets to my EASY CHARM TOTE, and I want my pocket to measure around 7h” X 12w”. So I cut my cotton fabric and SF 101 to measure 14½” X 15″h.
3. Adhere Interfacing
If you want your pocket to have structure, fuse the SF 101 or other lightweight interfacing to the wrong side of your fabric before sewing.
4. Sew the Pocket
- Fold the fabric in half, right sides together, so it measures your final pocket size.
- Sew only along the top raw edges with a ¼” seam allowance. This will leave you with a tube.
- Press seam open with an iron.
- Reach through tube and turn inside out. Press flat, with seam placed a little above the bottom of the slip pocket panel.
5. Topstitch the Top Edge
Topstitch along the folded edge of the pocket for a clean finish. One row of topstitching an 1/8″ away from the finished edge keeps it from rolling – use a longer stitch length. I added one row 1/8″ away from finished edge, then added another row 1/4″ away from my original topstitch.
6. Attach the Pocket to the Lining
- Place the pocket on the right side of your bag lining, centering it horizontally and positioning it at least few inches from the top edge. I placed my pocket 4″ from the top of the bag lining. Pin/Clip in place.
- For extra functionality, sew vertical lines to divide the pocket into sections. For example, you can create a narrow slot for pens or a wider section for a phone. Determine how many pockets you want, and use a hera marker or erasable marker to draw the lines.
- Using a longer stitch length, stitch the bottom of the pocket to the lining about 1/8″ away from pocket edge, backstitching at the beginning and end for extra strength.
- Repeat stitching over the bottom of the pocket you just completed, and this time, using the lines you made with your marker to make pocket dividers, sew over those lines to secure the pocket division marks to the lining.
- Continue sewing bag lining together as stated in the bag pattern.
Customization Tips
- Play with Fabric: Use a contrasting or coordinating fabric to make your pocket pop.
- Add Trim: Incorporate binding or piping for added flair! Many of my bag patterns feature a pocket binding technique that makes for a nice contrast and professional looking finish. You can check out my bag patterns here by clicking the button below.
Why You’ll Love This
Adding a slip pocket is a small detail that makes a big difference. It’s quick, easy, and elevates the overall look and functionality of your handmade bag. Plus, the personalization possibilities are endless!
Try adding a slip pocket to your next project, and let me know how it turns out. I’d love to see your creations—tag me on social media @BeMandyThings!
Happy sewing! Amanda🧵🧡
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