Are you tired of the frustration that comes with fake pockets in your jeans? Do you struggle to find a place to put your phone, keys, or wallet? You’re not alone. Many jeans manufacturers have resorted to sewing fake pockets, also known as “blind pockets” or “dummy pockets,” to create a sleeker design. However, this can be a major inconvenience for those who rely on their pockets for storage. In this article, we’ll show you how to add real pockets to your jeans with fake ones, giving you the functionality you need without sacrificing style.
Understanding the Anatomy of a Pocket
Before we dive into the process of adding real pockets to your jeans, it’s essential to understand the anatomy of a pocket. A standard pocket consists of several components:
- Pocket bag: The fabric that lines the inside of the pocket.
- Pocket opening: The slit or hole that allows you to access the pocket.
- Pocket facing: The fabric that covers the pocket opening and gives the pocket its shape.
- Pocket lining: The fabric that lines the inside of the pocket facing.
Types of Pockets
There are several types of pockets that you can add to your jeans, including:
- Slant pockets: These are the most common type of pocket and are characterized by a slanted opening.
- Vertical pockets: These pockets have a vertical opening and are often used on dress pants.
- Horizontal pockets: These pockets have a horizontal opening and are often used on casual pants.
Materials Needed
To add real pockets to your jeans with fake ones, you’ll need the following materials:
- Denim fabric: This will be used to create the pocket bag and pocket facing.
- Thread: You’ll need a matching thread color to sew the pocket in place.
- Scissors: You’ll need sharp scissors to cut the denim fabric.
- Sewing machine: A sewing machine will make the process much faster and easier.
- Measuring tape: You’ll need a measuring tape to measure the pocket opening and pocket bag.
- Ruler: A ruler will come in handy when cutting the denim fabric.
Measuring and Marking the Pocket
Before you start cutting and sewing, you’ll need to measure and mark the pocket opening and pocket bag. To do this:
- Measure the pocket opening: Measure the width of the fake pocket opening and mark it on the denim fabric.
- Measure the pocket bag: Measure the length and width of the pocket bag and mark it on the denim fabric.
- Mark the pocket facing: Mark the pocket facing on the denim fabric, making sure it’s centered and even.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have your materials and have measured and marked the pocket, it’s time to start sewing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to adding real pockets to your jeans with fake ones:
Step 1: Cut Out the Pocket Bag
- Cut out the pocket bag: Use your scissors to cut out the pocket bag, making sure to follow the markings you made earlier.
- Cut out the pocket facing: Cut out the pocket facing, making sure it’s slightly larger than the pocket bag.
Step 1.1: Cut Out the Pocket Lining
- Cut out the pocket lining: Cut out the pocket lining, making sure it’s slightly smaller than the pocket bag.
Step 2: Sew the Pocket Bag
- Sew the pocket bag: Use your sewing machine to sew the pocket bag, leaving a small opening at the top.
- Turn the pocket bag right side out: Carefully turn the pocket bag right side out, making sure the seams are secure.
Step 2.1: Press the Pocket Bag
- Press the pocket bag: Use a hot iron to press the pocket bag, making sure the seams are flat.
Step 3: Sew the Pocket Facing
- Sew the pocket facing: Use your sewing machine to sew the pocket facing, leaving a small opening at the top.
- Turn the pocket facing right side out: Carefully turn the pocket facing right side out, making sure the seams are secure.
Step 3.1: Press the Pocket Facing
- Press the pocket facing: Use a hot iron to press the pocket facing, making sure the seams are flat.
Step 4: Attach the Pocket Bag to the Pocket Facing
- Attach the pocket bag to the pocket facing: Use your sewing machine to attach the pocket bag to the pocket facing, making sure the seams are secure.
- Topstitch the pocket: Use a contrasting thread color to topstitch the pocket, making sure the seams are secure.
Step 4.1: Attach the Pocket Lining
- Attach the pocket lining: Use your sewing machine to attach the pocket lining to the pocket bag, making sure the seams are secure.
Step 5: Attach the Pocket to the Jeans
- Attach the pocket to the jeans: Use your sewing machine to attach the pocket to the jeans, making sure the seams are secure.
- Topstitch the pocket: Use a contrasting thread color to topstitch the pocket, making sure the seams are secure.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to keep in mind when adding real pockets to your jeans with fake ones:
- Use a matching thread color: Make sure to use a matching thread color to blend in with the rest of the jeans.
- Use a contrasting thread color: Use a contrasting thread color to topstitch the pocket and add a decorative touch.
- Add a pocket stay: Add a pocket stay to keep the pocket bag in place and prevent it from sagging.
- Use a different pocket style: Experiment with different pocket styles, such as a slant pocket or a vertical pocket.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when adding real pockets to your jeans with fake ones:
- Not measuring the pocket opening correctly: Make sure to measure the pocket opening correctly to ensure a proper fit.
- Not leaving enough room for the pocket bag: Make sure to leave enough room for the pocket bag to ensure a comfortable fit.
- Not topstitching the pocket: Topstitching the pocket will ensure that the seams are secure and the pocket will last longer.
Conclusion
Adding real pockets to your jeans with fake ones is a simple and rewarding process that can be completed with a few basic materials and tools. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create functional and stylish pockets that will enhance the overall look and feel of your jeans. Remember to measure carefully, use a matching thread color, and topstitch the pocket to ensure a professional finish. Happy sewing!
What is the purpose of adding real pockets to fake ones in jeans?
Adding real pockets to fake ones in jeans is a great way to enhance the functionality and comfort of your pants. Fake pockets, also known as “blind” or “dummy” pockets, are decorative pockets that do not have an actual opening or compartment. By adding real pockets, you can create a more practical and usable space to store small items like coins, keys, or a phone.
This modification can also improve the overall aesthetic of your jeans. Real pockets can add a touch of authenticity and sophistication to your pants, making them look more premium and high-quality. Additionally, adding real pockets can be a great way to upcycle or repurpose old or thrifted jeans, giving them a new life and reducing waste.
What materials and tools do I need to add real pockets to fake ones in jeans?
To add real pockets to fake ones in jeans, you will need a few basic materials and tools. These include a pair of jeans with fake pockets, a sewing machine, scissors, a seam ripper, a measuring tape or ruler, a pencil or marker, and some matching thread. You may also need some additional fabric or interfacing to create the pocket lining and stabilize the pocket opening.
It’s also a good idea to have some basic sewing notions on hand, such as pins, needles, and a seam gauge. If you’re new to sewing, you may want to practice working with denim and sewing straight lines before attempting this project. Additionally, you can use online tutorials or sewing patterns to help guide you through the process.
How do I measure and mark the pocket placement on my jeans?
To measure and mark the pocket placement on your jeans, start by trying on the pants and determining where you want the pocket to be located. You can use a pencil or marker to mark the center point of the pocket on the outside of the jeans. Then, use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the width and height of the pocket you want to create.
Next, use a seam gauge or ruler to draw a straight line along the mark you made, indicating the top edge of the pocket. You can also use a curved line or a pocket template to create a more rounded or shaped pocket. Make sure to mark the pocket placement on both sides of the jeans, so that the pockets are even and symmetrical.
How do I create the pocket lining and stabilize the pocket opening?
To create the pocket lining, you will need to cut a piece of fabric that is slightly larger than the pocket opening. You can use a matching fabric or a contrasting fabric, depending on the look you want to achieve. Cut two pieces of fabric to the same size, and then place them right sides together and sew along the edges, leaving a small opening to turn the lining right side out.
To stabilize the pocket opening, you can use a piece of interfacing or stabilizer, such as fusible web or cotton batting. Cut a piece of interfacing to the same size as the pocket opening, and then fuse it to the wrong side of the denim using a hot iron. This will help to prevent the pocket opening from stretching or distorting over time.
How do I sew the pocket to the jeans and secure the edges?
To sew the pocket to the jeans, start by placing the pocket lining right side down on the wrong side of the denim, aligning the edges of the pocket with the mark you made earlier. Then, sew along the edges of the pocket using a 1/4 inch seam allowance, making sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam.
To secure the edges of the pocket, you can use a serger or zigzag stitch on your sewing machine to finish the seam allowance. Alternatively, you can use a binding or facing to cover the raw edges of the pocket. Make sure to press the seam allowance to one side, and then topstitch along the edges of the pocket to create a decorative stitch.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when adding real pockets to fake ones in jeans?
One common mistake to avoid when adding real pockets to fake ones in jeans is not measuring the pocket placement accurately. This can result in pockets that are uneven or asymmetrical, which can affect the overall appearance of the pants. Another mistake is not using a stabilizer or interfacing to support the pocket opening, which can cause the pocket to stretch or distort over time.
Additionally, it’s also important to avoid sewing the pocket too tightly, as this can cause the fabric to pucker or distort. Make sure to leave a small amount of ease in the pocket seam allowance, and use a walking foot or Teflon foot on your sewing machine to help guide the fabric smoothly. Finally, avoid using a sewing machine with a very tight stitch length, as this can cause the thread to break or the fabric to tear.
Can I add real pockets to fake ones in jeans if I’m a beginner sewer?
Yes, you can add real pockets to fake ones in jeans even if you’re a beginner sewer. However, it’s recommended that you have some basic sewing skills and experience working with denim before attempting this project. You can start by practicing sewing straight lines and working with denim on a scrap piece of fabric before moving on to your actual jeans.
Additionally, you can use online tutorials or sewing patterns to help guide you through the process. It’s also a good idea to start with a simple pocket design and gradually work your way up to more complex designs as your skills and confidence grow. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they can often be fixed or adjusted, and you can learn from them to improve your skills.