Hey everyone, Holly here! How has everyone been enjoying River? It’s pretty amazing right?! I personally love the knit versions the best! But because View A doesn’t include pockets (because it is too much bulk with thick fabrics), I decided to add some patch pockets on the front so I still had someplace to put my hands. And because I already created a contrasting look with the sleeves, the contrasting pockets just completed the look.
Speaking of contrasting sleeves, this pattern just begs for some contrast, doesn’t it?! That’s what’s so great about raglan sleeves. The fabric I used here is a double-sided scuba knit, which made it really easy – just had to flip the fabric over.
Anyway, I’m going to share how to create the patch pockets below if you’re interested. So read on!
Create your patch pocket pattern piece by drawing a rectangle 6 1/2” tall by 5 1/2” wide.
Of course, you can create a different size if you want, just remember the seam allowance – 1” along the top and 1/4” along the other sides!
Cut out 2 pieces from your fabric.
Fold the top edge in by 1” and press.
From the right side, use a twin needle to sew just under 1” from the edge.
Fold in the other 3 edges by 1/4” and press. I used pins to temporarily hold them in place.
Now you need to place your pockets on your dress. This is a personal preference, so you’ll need to do some testing. I did this by trying the dress on and putting my hand on my thigh as if were in an invisible pocket. And then I placed a pin at the bottom of my fingertip.
From there I had a general idea of where to place one pocket, I just made sure it was straight. Using a ruler and measuring from the hem and side seam, I made sure the second pocket was straight and even with the first.
Pin in place all around the edges.
Stitch in place close to the edge. I used a straight stitch even though it’s a knit since you don’t have to worry about stretch much with pockets.
That’s it! Now all you pocket lovers have a place to put your hands in your heavy-weight knit dresses!
LOOKING FOR MORE RIVER POSTS?
Here’s the full list of River posts and tutorials:
- Inspiration and ideas
- Pattern Tester roundup
- Staystitching and Pockets
- Flat raglan sleeve insertion and side seams
- How to insert raglan sleeves in the round
- Neckband View A & C
- Bias-bound neckline View B & D
- Hemming
- Belt and belt loops
- Variation: ruffle raglan sleeve detail
- Variation: patch pockets and contrasting fabrics (this post!)
We absolutely love seeing what you make, so don’t forget to tag your creations with #MNriver and @megannielsenpatterns when sharing on social media, and check out what everyone else is up to!
Don’t have the pattern yet?
