How to make a clip-on pocket

1. Materials & tools

Materials (one pocket)

• Outer and lining fabric — about 15 × 35 cm each
• Flap fabric (self or contrast) — a little
• Belt-loop fabric — a little
• 1 set of snaps
• Clip-on pocket clips (×2), or use the belt loop

Tools

• Sewing machine (or needle and thread)
• Fabric marker or pencil
• Ruler and scissors
• Iron
• Pins or clips

2. Make the pattern (auto-generated in Katagami)

With the Katagami pattern tool, you just enter the finished size and it drafts a seam-allowance-included pattern, tiled to print at actual size on Letter or A4.

1. Open the tool
   Open the pattern tool and choose “Accessories” → “Clip-on pocket” from the tabs at the top.
2. Enter the size
   Enter the pocket width and height, the flap height and the belt-loop width.
3. Set the seam allowance
   Use the slider at the bottom (beginners: 1.0–1.5 cm / about 3/8–5/8 in).
4. Print
   Press “Print (actual size)”, then in the print dialog set Scale = 100% and turn “Fit to page” OFF. Check the 50 mm calibration box on the first guide sheet with a ruler.

3. Cutting the fabric

1. Trace the pattern
   Trace the cut and seam lines; align the grain.
2. Cut
   Cut 2 body (outer/lining), 2 flap (outer/lining) and 1 belt loop.
3. Finish the edges
   Zigzag or serge edges that fray.

4. Sewing

4-1. Make the flap

1. Sew the flap outer and lining right sides together (leave the top edge open) and turn.
2. Topstitch around and add one half of the snap.

4-2. Make the body

1. Fold the body up to make the pocket (or layer outer and lining), and sew the sides; turn.
2. Add the other half of the snap at the pocket opening.

4-3. Assemble with the belt loop

1. Fold and sew the belt loop and stitch its ends to the back of the body to form a loop.
2. Catch the flap at the top edge of the body and sew.
3. Check the snap, then clip it on or thread a belt through the loop.

5. Tips & variations

• Two ways to attach: clips for skirts, the belt loop for trousers.
• Laminate: a wipe-clean version is handy for younger kids.
• Coordinate: match it to a bag or smock.