One of the things I was asked for when I posted the new bag would come in Diaper Bag size, was elastic pockets, but elastic patch pockets can be super frustrating. While struggling with the big elastic pocket (tutorial coming soon), I came up with this, which is super easy and (in my opinion) way more useful! I put two of them in Emmett’s bag and I use them for his pacifier and his socks!
Materials:
9″ wide x 7″ tall main fabric + 9″ wide x 7″ tall lining fabric (for each pocket)
5″ piece of 3/8″ wide elastic
Thread, clips/pins
Pacifier Pocket Template
Print the template and cut out one main fabric piece and one lining piece (or two linings). It will gather best without interfacing.
Place the two pieces right sides together and sew with a 3/8″ seam allowance, leaving a small (3-4″) gap on one straight side. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the gap.
Cut a 5″ piece of 3/8″ elastic.
Stitch one end of the elastic in one corner, over the existing stitch line (make sure it is *below* the stitching across the top).
Scrunch/fold the pocket to attach the other end of the elastic to the other side of the pocket.
Turn right side out and press. Pull the elastic to one side at a time to press the top seam.
Reach in and place the elastic along the top seam, clipping or pinning as you go. Stretch out one side at a time.
Stretch out the pocket as you topstitch with at least a 1/2″ seam allowance. Make sure the elastic stays at the top of the seam so you do not stitch through it. You are basically making a casing and want the elastic to move freely inside so that it will gather the fabric. Use a larger seam allowance if you struggle to keep the elastic to the side.
The pocket should now be a cute little pod!
Stitch without stretching out the elastic onto your bag lining. I used two pockets side by side.
So that’s one more option for your new bag! Share yours and tag @dogundermydesk on Instagram, join the Facebook Group, or like the Facebook Page!