Tote Tuesday Part 2: Basic Pocket

I include 2 different types of pockets in the totes I make.  I like to include a zippered pocket for all those things I don't want to fall out, but I also include a basic open pocket for the things I want to be able to grab quickly: a chapstick, pencil, etc.

SUPPLIES:

• Tote lining
• Fabric for pocket: less than a fat quarter

STEP 1: 

Cut Fabric

• 1-28"x18"piece of fabric for lining
• note that the piece of fabric for the lining is the same dimensions as the fabric cut for the tote body, therefore if you are making a tote of different dimensions you just have to make sure the lining and tote body are the same size

• 1-10"x18" piece of fabric for basic pocket
• again, if you would like a larger, smaller, skinnier, fatter pocket you can adjust accordingly by determining how wide you would like the pocket (plus 1 inch for seam allowance), and how tall you would like the pocket (when figuring the height, multiply it by 2, because you will be folding the pocket over, and then add 1 inch for a seam allowance)

STEP 2:

Sew Pocket

• Fold fabric for pocket right-sides together, hamburger bun style and pin.
• Sew around the 3 raw-edges(you don't have to sew the folded edge) of the pocket leaving an opening in one side so that you can turn the pocket right-side out.

• Turn pocket inside out.
• Stitch opening closed.

• I choose to topstitch what will be the top of my pocket just to give it a more finished look.

STEP 3:

Determine the placement of the pocket on your lining.

• Fold your lining fabric in half and mark the middle to determine where the bottom of the bag will be.
• You can measure in from the sides of the lining to find the center of the sides of your tote but I usually just eyeball the placement of the pocket.

STEP 4:

Attach pocket to lining

• Pin pocket to the right side of your lining once you've decided where you'd like it.
• Sew close to the side and bottom edges of the pocket.

There you go! Stand back admire your handi-work! Prepare to tackle and be amazed by the almost-as-easy and very-rewarding next technique of putting in a zippered pocket!