How To Knit A Pocket (Inset Pocket For A Cardigan)

In this post, you will see how to knit a pocket, an inset pocket for a cardigan.

There are many ways of creating a pocket in a garment, and this tutorial will show you an easy way to create an inline (inset) pocket.

In this tutorial, I will work on the Outlander Claire’s Blue Cardigan Knitting Pattern.

Inset Pocket Tutorial

Take a look at the tutorial below, and if you need help, head on over to the Handy Little Me Outlander Facebook group, where the rest of the group will help you, or you can leave a comment below.

• This tutorial is shown on the left front of the cardigan with set in pockets.
• When you see the instructions, refer to the stitch pattern – this is the 4-row repeat of the Irish moss (double moss) stitch pattern.
• The WS is the wrong side of the work.
• The RS is on the right-side of the work.
• A spare needle or DPN – a double-pointed needle is needed for the pocket lining stitches.
• I worked the pocket on circular needles – not knit in the round.

Creating A Pocket On The Right Front

Creating the pocket on the right front is done in the same way but opposite. You can see the instructions for this below.

When working the pocket on the right front, you will be asked in the pattern to work row 3 of the pattern on the RS, then work row 4 of the patt as follows:

Next row: Work 14 (15, 16, 16, 17, 18) sts in row 4 of patt, then cast off 22 (22, 22, 24, 24, 24) sts in patt, cont in patt across the second set of sts on the working needle 6 (7, 8, 8, 9, 10) sts all in the patt.

Then you will work the following on row 1 of patt :

Next row: You will work across the first 6 (7, 8, 8, 9, 10) sts in patt on the working needle, then across the 22 (22, 22, 24, 24, 24) sts on the spare needle (the pocket lining sts), then across the second set of sts on the working needle 14 (15, 16, 16, 17, 18) sts all in the patt.

Finally, you will continue on in the established pattern once the pocket lining has been joined:

Now you will continue to work in the patt (you are now on row 2 of patt) until you have worked 17 inches from the CO edge, ending with row 4 of patt.

Place a closed st marker on the side seam edge of the last row worked.

What Is An Inset Pocket?

An inset pocket is a type of pocket that is integrated into a garment or accessory so that it lies flush with the fabric rather than protruding from the surface.

Inset pockets are often found in tailored clothing, such as jackets, trousers, skirts, and dresses.

Here are some key characteristics of inset pockets:

1. Flush Integration: Unlike patch pockets or welt pockets, which are sewn onto the surface of the garment, inset pockets are sewn into a slit or opening in the fabric, creating a seamless and streamlined appearance.
2. Professional Finish: Inset pockets are often associated with a more formal and tailored look due to their clean and polished finish.
3. Versatility: Inset pockets can be constructed in various shapes and sizes, including square, rectangular, angled, or curved openings, depending on the design of the garment.
4. Stability and Durability: Inset pockets are typically reinforced with interfacing or lining to add stability and prevent stretching or sagging over time.
5. Construction Techniques: Inset pockets are constructed using precision sewing techniques, such as understitching, edge stitching, and topstitching, to ensure clean lines and secure attachment to the garment.

Inset pockets can be functional, providing a discreet place to store small items like keys or coins, or they can be purely decorative, adding visual interest to the garment without practical utility.

Overall, inset pockets are a classic and sophisticated feature in garment construction, offering style and functionality to tailored apparel.

How Do You Knit A Small Pocket?

To knit a small pocket, you can follow these general steps:

1. Cast On: Using the yarn and needle size of your choice, cast on the desired number of stitches for the width of the pocket. The number of stitches will depend on the size of the pocket you want and the gauge of your yarn.
2. Knit in the Desired Stitch Pattern: Work in the stitch pattern of your choice for the desired pocket length. You can use basic stitches like garter stitch, stockinette stitch, or ribbing, or you can choose more intricate stitch patterns for added interest.
3. Create the Pocket Flap (Optional): If you want to add a flap to your pocket, you can do so by knitting a separate piece and attaching it to the top of the pocket. To knit the flap, cast on the desired number of stitches for the width of the flap, then work in your chosen stitch pattern for the desired length. You can shape the flap by decreasing stitches on each side for a triangular shape or by working short rows for a rounded shape.
4. Bind Off: Once the pocket and flap (if applicable) are the desired size, bind off your stitches to secure them.
5. Seam or Attach the Pocket: If you knitted the pocket and flap separately, seam the sides and bottom of the pocket to create a pouch. If you knit the pocket and flap as one piece, you can skip this step.
6. Attach the Pocket to Your Project: Use a yarn needle and matching yarn to sew the pocket onto your garment or accessory. You can position the pocket wherever you like and use the same yarn or a contrasting color for added detail.
7. Add Embellishments (Optional): You can personalize your pocket by adding buttons, appliques, or embroidery to the flap or front of the pocket.

Following these steps, you can knit a small pocket to add functionality and style to your knitting projects.

Feel free to customize the size, shape, and design of your pocket to suit your preferences and project needs.

How Do You Sew A Pocket Lining In Knitting?

Sewing a pocket lining in knitting involves attaching a fabric lining to the inside of a knitted pocket to provide structure, durability, and a clean finish.

Here’s a general guide on how to sew a pocket lining in knitting:

1. Prepare the Fabric Lining: Choose a lightweight fabric for the lining that complements your knitted project. Cotton or polyester blends work well. Cut the fabric to the same size and shape as the pocket, leaving a seam allowance of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) on all sides.
2. Pin the Lining to the Pocket: Place the fabric lining inside the knitted pocket, aligning the edges neatly. Pin the lining in place along the top edge and sides of the pocket, leaving the bottom edge open.
3. Hand Stitch or Machine Stitch: You can either hand stitch or machine stitch the lining to the knitted pocket. If hand stitching, use a simple whip stitch or running stitch along the top edge and sides of the pocket. Make sure to catch both the knitted fabric and the lining fabric with each stitch. If using a sewing machine, sew along the top edge and sides of the pocket with a straight stitch, backstitching at the beginning and end of the seams for reinforcement.
4. Finish the Bottom Edge (Optional): To finish the bottom edge of the pocket, you can fold the raw edges of the lining and knitted fabric under and sew them together with a whip stitch or a machine stitch. Alternatively, you can leave the bottom edge open if you prefer.
5. Trim Excess Fabric (Optional): Trim any excess fabric or yarn tails from the seams to create a neat finish.
6. Press the Pocket: Once the lining is securely attached, press the pocket with an iron on a low heat setting to smooth out any wrinkles and creases.
7. Repeat for Additional Pockets: If your project has multiple pockets, repeat the process for each pocket.

By following these steps, you can sew a fabric lining into your knitted pockets to add stability and functionality to your knitting projects.

Experiment with different fabrics and techniques to achieve the desired look and feel for your pockets.

Happy Knitting!