Tutorial: How to Sew a Side Seam Pocket

With the exception of the Simplicity 1061 sew along (which I am neck deep in the middle of), it's been a while since I've posted a tutorial so I figured it was time to address our baggage needs. We all carry a cell phone these days and where to put it is always the question. My bra, at least, was not made to take care of this need, so why not put pockets in everything? No more undressing to answer a phone call! I like that.

As part of the sew along, I've made a pocket pattern to go into our skirt.
 

1. Down load the pattern by clicking on link below. Cut 2 from contrasting or fashion fabric. Though not as strong, you may choose to use lining fabric too. Being limited by page size, this pattern and opening are small, but big enough to house your phone. If you'd like to enlarge your pattern, lengthen the pattern about 1 inch below the notch.

 

Find the full size pocket pattern on this page:

https://sewchicpatterns.com/free/

2. With right sides together, pin the pocket to skirt front and back at the right side seam. Remember that the left side seam has the zipper, so only one pocket on this project.

3. Sew to side seam using a 3/8" seam allowance

4. Press pocket and seam to outside.

5. With front and back side seams and pocket edge matching, sew as directed on the photo. 

6. Press pocket to skirt front. Baste at upper edge. Complete your skirt as directed in the guide.

Sew Along for New Pattern Release!

Hooray! It's really really here!

Just in case you didn't see my Facebook post, Simplicity #1061 (AKA "Pongo") is now available in stores and online in the Simplicity Fall Catalog! Here in Oregon you can also get it at JoAnn and Hobby Lobby.

As you select your fabric and notions, please keep in mind that just as clothing manufacturers often use different calculations to come up with their sizing charts, so do pattern makers. If you are used to choosing your size based on my size chart, be aware that Simplicity sizing does not equal Sew Chic sizing! 

Here's my Sew Chic size chart:

Sizes	2	4	6	8	10	12	14	16	18
Bust	32”	33”	34”	35”	36.5”	38”	40”	42”	45”
Waist	25”	26”	27”	28”	29.5”	31”	33”	35”	38”
Hip	35”	36”	37”	38”	39.5”	41”	43”	45”	48”
Back Waist	15.5”	16”	16.5”	16.75”	17”	17.25”	17.5”	17.75”	18”

 

Compare it to the Simplicity chart below and you'll see what I'm talking about! A Sew Chic size 10 is NOT a Simplicity size 10. There is a big difference, and it will translate to a dress that won't fit if you don't pay attention. Check (yep -- this means getting out the measuring tape) and compare YOUR measurements with those on the pattern before deciding on a size!

Simplicity size chart:

Sizes	4	6	8	10	12	14	16	18	20
Bust	29 ½”	30 ½”	31 ½”	32 ½”	34”	36”	38”	40”	42”
Waist	22”	23”	24”	25”	26 ½”	28”	30”	32”	34”
Hip	31 ½”	32 ½”	33 ½”	34 ½”	36	38”	40”	42”	44”
Back Waist	15 ½”	15 ½”	15 ¾”	16”	16 ¼”	16 ½”	16 ¾”	17”	17 ¼”

 

Sew Along with Me

If you read my previous post on the evolution of this pattern you'll remember that I promised a Sew Along. I know you want this fun summer combo! And my intention for creating the Sew Along is to encourage you to start and finish it! Sign up, and starting July 13th you'll get a weekly Sew Along delivered to your inbox.

http://www.sewchicpatterns.com/simplicity.html

 

I'd also really like to see what fabric you choose and how it turns out! So send me a picture when you are done!

Thanks for all your support and comments about my new pattern release.

Have a great sewing day,

Laura

Introducing "Pongo" for Simplicity #1061

I'm sorry to make you wait...

It's been really hard for me too. I am so excited for the debut of my new design created exclusively for Simplicity, and then named, numbered, and known by them as  #1061. My patterns are normally given a name, usually an association to the development of the design. for example, "Tia" is dedicated to my aunt who gave me the fabric that inspired the style (anyone know español?). 

Pongo from Gowns by Laura

Pongo from Gowns by Laura

Some of you will remember "Pongo" from my "Gowns by Laura" page. Designed several years ago, this dress with an asymmetrical skirt was a favorite in the many fashion shows I participated in. The classic style is still a favorite. 


Designed exclusively for Simplicity, #1061 is a charming jacket and dress duo with a swingy skirt and the same bodice and trims as the original. Paired with the so-cute bolero jacket, I think this fashion remodel is an across-the-board hit. 

Sew Chic design for Simplicity

Wearing this dress, everyone will look like a knockout, don't you think? It's got a tailored look with a cut on sleeve and a slightly dropped waist that adds definition while minimizing less-than-taut tummies. Plus, the flared skirt almost guarantees comfort and style. If the lack of sleeves on this photo scares you off, don't let it. For most people, the shoulder will be wide enough to call a cap sleeve. If not, my sew along will cure that! (KEEP reading;-)

Warm days or cool nights, add the jacket and you are dressed up for a summer wedding or ready for a cool night out on the town.  The three quarter lined bolero short jacket is quick to sew and easy to fit too, with just enough coverage and doesn't cover up important style details!. Match the jacket to the dress for a monochromatic look or bring the eye up to your face by choosing a contrasting color/fabric. There are two jacket versions, either with, or without a collar. Dress variations let you decide whether to include trim at the neckline and hem. 

The pattern recommends broadcloth, chintz, dupioni, shantung, faille, gingham, pique, sateen, and taffeta and cotton or linen types. Of course there are many many appropriate fabrics in between. The biggest difficulty is finding the right print! Light to medium-weight limp or crisp fabrics will maximize skirt movement, and don't forget you need that petticoat for structure!

  
As of this writing, the pattern is not yet available for purchase.

What IS available is the SIGN UP for the sew along! To kick start our alliance, I will be hosting  a sew along, to be delivered to your inbox once a week starting July 8. I ALSO have in my hand a copy of this Simplicity PATTERN to give away to ONE LUCKY WINNER. If you sign up for the sew along now, you'll also be entering yourself into the giveaway too. At random, one NAME will chosen from this sign up list and announced on the RELEASE DATE for this pattern, JUNE 12. The sew along will begin on July 8, which gives you a few weeks to buy the pattern and gather your supplies. Sign up here:

http://www.sewchicpatterns.com/simplicity.html

It's less than a week! Look for #1061 online and in stores wherever Simplicity Patterns are sold. I'd love to hear what you think of my newest release and can't wait to see how your Pongo turns out! 

Have a wonderful sewing day!

Laura