How to Make a Secret Pocket in a Jacket

A secret jacket pocket is an essential accessory for keeping important belongings in a safe place. It's frustrating to purchase a sports coat or blazer and realize after the fact there's no hidden pocket. A hidden pocket is often located on the inner right or left flap of a jacket. Creating your own pocket requires only a few household items and demands less than an hour of your time. Once your pocket is created, use it to store your checkbook, cellular phone or important documents while you are on the move.

Instructions

1  Fold the 3 1/2-by-8-inch piece of cotton fabric or satin in half to 3 1/2-by-4-inch dimensions. Select a fabric color identical or complimentary to the jacket. Place the folded fabric on an ironing board. Iron both sides of the fabric on high heat to crease the fold permanently.

2  Sew the two loose folded 3 1/2-inch ends together. Make a cross stitch pattern 1/8-inch removed from the 3 1/2-inch edge: sew a stitch in a straight line from left to right. Reverse the stitching line from left to right. The second line of stitches "crosses" back over the first line of stitching for an extra strong hold.

3  Place the pocket on the inside lining of the right or left flap of the jacket. Position the pocket so it is where the chest area touches the inside of the jacket. Spin the pocket so the cross stitched end is facing up.

4  Sew the two 4-inch sides and the bottom 3 1/2-inch edge into the jacket lining. Make a cross stitch pattern 1/8-inch removed from the three edges.

Tips & Warnings

Avoid sewing the top edge to the lining so the pocket remains open.