Amanda Knapp
Basketball players and enthusiasts often face the issue of their shorts lacking pockets. While some may discard their old shorts and opt for new ones with pockets, this can be costly and unnecessary. A more sustainable and affordable solution is to add pockets to your existing basketball shorts. This can be achieved through various methods, such as sewing techniques, that can be tailored to your preferences and sewing experience. Whether you're adding pockets to commercially finished shorts or creating your own, understanding the process can ensure you achieve the desired result.
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What You'll Learn
Sewing experience and tools required
Adding pockets to basketball shorts is a simple project, but it does require some sewing experience and the right tools. Here is a list of the tools you will need:
- Sewing machine
- Fabric (preferably matching or contrasting with the shorts)
- Thread (matching colour)
- Scissors
- Rotary blade and cutting mat (optional)
- Seam ripper
- Dumbbell or paperweight (optional)
- Pins
If you are new to sewing, it is recommended to start with a simpler project to gain some experience before attempting to add pockets to your basketball shorts. Familiarize yourself with the sewing machine and practice basic stitching techniques. Additionally, you can watch online tutorials or seek guidance from experienced sewers to improve your skills.
For this project, it is essential to have a basic understanding of sewing techniques, such as stitching in a straight line, backstitching, and securing knots. You should also know how to operate a sewing machine safely and efficiently.
Before starting, ensure that you have all the required tools and create a workspace that is well-lit and organized. Lay out your basketball shorts and assemble the tools and materials needed for the project.
Overall, adding pockets to basketball shorts is a straightforward project for those with some sewing experience and the right tools. By gathering the necessary materials and carefully following the steps, you can successfully enhance your basketball shorts with functional and convenient pockets.
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Cut and prepare the fabric
To cut and prepare the fabric for pockets, you will need some sewing experience and the right tools. First, you will need to decide on the type of pocket you want to add to your basketball shorts. If you want a zippered pocket, you will need to cut a rectangular piece of fabric for the pocket and then cut a hole in the basketball shorts where you want the pocket to be placed. If you prefer a simpler open pocket, you can use another pair of shorts with pockets as a template to create a pattern for your pocket.
To create the pattern, turn the shorts with pockets inside out and use a pencil to trace the pocket size onto a piece of paper. Cut out the traced pattern and fold the edges under to allow for seam allowance. You can then use this pattern to cut the pocket fabric. For a zippered pocket, you will need to cut a rectangle in the centre of the fabric for the zipper. If you are adding an open pocket, cut out two pieces of fabric for each pocket.
It is important to choose a pocket fabric that is similar to the fabric of your basketball shorts. You will also need matching thread and the necessary tools for sewing, such as a sewing machine, scissors, and pins. Once you have cut and prepared the fabric, you can move on to the next step of sewing the pocket onto the basketball shorts.
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Prepare the shorts
To prepare your basketball shorts for adding pockets, you will first need to decide on the type of pocket you want to add. If you want to add a zip pocket, you will need to follow a slightly different process than if you are adding a regular pocket.
For a regular pocket, you will need to decide on the pocket size. Take a piece of clothing that already has a pocket and measure the pocket opening. Alternatively, you can decide on a custom size. Turn your basketball shorts inside out and use a pencil to trace the desired pocket size against a piece of paper. Cut out two pieces of material for each pocket you will be making, using the paper tracing as a pattern.
If you want to add a zip pocket, you will need to place a piece of pocket fabric on the outside of your shorts where you want the pocket to be and pin it in place. Then, using a pencil and ruler, draw a rectangle where you want the zip opening to be, using the zip as a guide for sizing.
Once you have decided on the type of pocket and prepared the materials, you can move on to cutting and sewing the pocket in place.
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Sew the pocket to the shorts
Sewing a pocket to basketball shorts is a simple project, as long as you have some sewing experience and the right tools. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Prepare the Pocket Pattern
First, you will need to create a pattern for your pocket. You can do this by using another pair of shorts with pockets as a template, or by measuring the desired pocket size directly onto paper. Fold the edges of the paper under to allow for seam allowance, and cut out your pattern. You may want to double-check that the pattern is the right size by placing an object that you would regularly put in your pocket, such as a phone or wallet, on top of the pattern.
Cut the Fabric
Once you have your pattern, cut out the fabric for your pocket. You will need to cut four pieces of fabric for each pocket. Choose a material that is similar to the fabric of your basketball shorts.
Sew the Pocket Pieces Together
Now, you will sew the pocket pieces together. Sew the first two pieces together along the top edge. Then, using pins, attach the sewn top edge to the elastic band of the shorts, aligning the long straight edge of the pocket with the side seam of the shorts.
Turn your shorts inside out and pin the pocket to the desired location. If you are adding a pocket to the side of the shorts, carefully unpick the side seam and open it up. Start sewing the pocket to the shorts from as high up as possible, sewing down towards the bottom of the pocket, leaving about two inches at the bottom. Repeat this process for the other side of the pocket, and then sew the pocket pieces together along the curved edge. Finally, turn the shorts right side out, and your new pocket is ready to use!
Tips and Tricks
When sewing pockets to basketball shorts, it is important to take your time and be careful not to put holes in the fabric. You may also want to consider the placement of the pocket carefully, especially if you are adding pockets to retro-style shorts with trim. The pocket should be placed so that the top stitching does not go over the trim, as this will make it look less sleek and more homemade.
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Zip or no zip
Adding pockets to basketball shorts is a great way to increase their functionality. When considering the style of pocket to add, there are benefits to both zippered and open pockets.
Zippered pockets offer a secure place to store valuables such as keys, phones, and wallets, especially during physical activities. The zipper ensures that belongings remain safe and dry, even in wet conditions. Additionally, zippered pockets can enhance the style of the shorts, making them more fashionable. Furthermore, the added benefit of secure storage outweighs any potential discomfort caused by the zipper. However, it is important to note that constantly zipping and unzipping pockets can be annoying, especially when frequently accessing items such as phones.
On the other hand, open pockets provide easy access to items without the hassle of zippers. They are convenient for quickly reaching for items, especially when playing basketball or engaging in other active pursuits. Open pockets can also be designed with thoughtful considerations, such as horizontal cuts that angle away from where items naturally sit, preventing them from falling out when sitting down.
When deciding between zippered or open pockets, it is essential to consider the intended use of the basketball shorts. If the primary concern is secure storage, zippered pockets are ideal. However, if easy access to items is a priority, open pockets might be more suitable.
Ultimately, both zippered and open pockets have their advantages and can be designed to be functional and comfortable. The decision to include zippers or not depends on personal preferences and the specific needs of the wearer.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a sewing machine, a quarter yard of fabric, matching thread, a pocket pattern or a pair of shorts to use as a template, a seam ripper, scissors or a rotary blade, and a cutting mat.
First, make your pattern and cut the pieces. Next, sew the pieces together and attach the pocket to the shorts. Finally, sew the pocket pieces together and turn the shorts right side out.
Horizontally cut pockets are better than vertically cut pockets because they angle away from where your belongings naturally sit, keeping them secure when you sit down. Zippers are also a good option for back pockets.
Yes, it is important to double-check all measurements before sewing. Additionally, choose a material for the pockets that is similar to the material of your basketball shorts. It is also important to be careful when unpicking the seams to avoid putting holes in the fabric or messing up the trim.
