Gift Pocket Tutorial

We made these cute little gift pockets in sewing class and I thought I'd share them with you.  They are great for using up scraps of fabric and ribbon, and make a darling little holder for money, candy, or miniature ornaments.  These can be hung on your Christmas tree by using holiday fabric, but they can also be made in any fabric to use as a party favor or to hold a tiny gift.  To size these up to hold a credit-card size gift card, I would recommend adding another inch to the lower width measurement (re:  2 1/2 inches instead of 1 1/2 inches).  These are a perfect project for a beginner as they are really simple to make.
 

Supplies for two pockets

 

Cut a template for your pocket out of paper, card stock, or a manila folder. Measurements are as shown above. Cut two fabric "triangles" for each pocket.    I like using contrasting but complementary fabric.  Next cut about 7 1/4 inches of ribbon for each pocket:

Find the center on one of your pocket triangles by folding it in half lengthwise.  This triangle will become the back of your pocket.  Next, form a loop with the ribbon and pin it in the center of your triangle on the right side of the fabric.  Fold the right sides of the fabric together lengthwise for both triangles, sandwiching the ribbon in the center of one of the triangles.  Press.

Next, you will sew the folded-together tops of the triangles (along the 4 1/2 length).  To save thread you can chain sew the triangles together by leaving a stitch in between each triangle as demonstrated by Heidi below:

Clip the corner on each triangle.  Turn both of them right side out.  Push out the point with a pin or a blunt object of some sort.  Press the point flat.

With right sides together, pin the triangles together.  To make a perfect pocket you'll want to align the center seam with the original crease that you made in the beginning down the center of the pocket.  As this is not brain surgery, a millimeter off here or there is not critical.

Sew with a 1/4 inch seam allowance.  Be sure to backstitch a few times at the top edges of your pocket for strength.  Pivot around the bottom corners:

Clip the corners and turn, pushing the corners out with a blunt object. Press the flap down on the front of the pocket.  And voila!  You are finished.  Optional:  stuff a tiny amount of batting at the bottom of your pocket to puff it out.

Fill your pocket with candy (miniatures would be best)

Or fill it with miniature toys or ornaments!

These are quick and fun-to-make. Enjoy!