How To Make a Zipper Pocket

 I make a lot of bags and this is an application I use frequently to make zipper pockets. Use the dimensions given in your pattern, but this is also easy to adapt to any size zipper and pocket you want. 

The basic pieces are as follows:  

• The fabric to which you are adding the pocket
• A lining
• A zipper  

The pocket lining will fold in half lengthwise to create the pocket after sewing in the zipper.  Therefore it should be twice the depth you want for the pocket PLUS four inches.  The width should be at least an inch wider than the zipper (half an inch clearance on each side).  

(NOTE:  If the lining piece is a little larger than this, it is fine. I usually measure only roughly, because you can trim the excess away after sewing in the zipper.)

STEP ONE

• Position the lining piece face down on the main fabric, centered and about an inch from the top edge (or whatever the pattern directs) 

• About an inch from the top of the lining, you will be making the rectangle for the zipper opening.  

• Measure the zipper from the pull to the stop and add 1/4" for clearance  This is the length of your rectangle

• Draw the rectangle directly onto the fabric, make it a scant 1/2" high

• Draw a line exactly down the center and angled to the corners as shown below - this is a cutting line for later

STEP TWO

Stitch around this rectangle with a short stitch length. You can go back and reinforce the corners with a second stitching, but keep this as exact as possible 

STEP THREE

Now you'll cut those inside lines.  Cut right up in the corner as close you can get without cutting the stitching.

STEP FOUR

Turn the lining through the opening to the back side of the main fabric and press well both back and front.  Now you have the opening for your zipper

STEP FIVE

Use a glue stick to attach the zipper to the back side or else hand baste. 

STEP SIX

Stitch around the opening close to the edge

on back side fold up the lining, matching edges, to form the pocket 

STEP SEVEN  

With the piece right side up, fold the  main fabric in at the seam lines, as shown, and 

stitch around the stitching line, beginning at lower left corner.

Pocket is done, and you can now trim away any excess seam allowance

                                                                       Finished pocket

Now make that into a pouch to hold your MacBook or other device!