How to Make a Mesh Pocket for a Backpack

This video and blog explains how to sew a fabric pocket with stabiliser, batting, and applique, focusing on precise steps for a neat finish. It covers hooping up your stabiliser, fabric placement, quilting, and finishing a mesh pocket.

Step-by-Step Sewing Instructions

1. Preparing the Stabilizer and Batting

Hoop up cutaway stabiliser and stitch down. Trim the batting back to about 2 millimeters from the stitching line.

2. Attaching Main Fabric

Place the main fabric on the placement line. Use a tool (like a Pink Thing) to prevent fabric from shifting or pleating. Stitch the main fabric into position. Trim excess fabric back to the stitching line.

3. Adding Contrast Top Fabric

Position the contrast fabric on its placement line and stitch into place. Trim back to the stitching line before quilting.

4. Quilting

Perform quilting as per the pattern, following the diagram for consistent stitching.

5. Applique Process

Identify the placement line for the applique. Cut the mesh pocket piece to size. Fold the top edge of the mesh slightly above the placement line. Secure the mesh with washi tape to hold it in place. Stitch over the placement line, ensuring the mesh stays flat. Use additional washi tape over the stitching to prevent bunching.

6. Final Assembly

Remove the washi tape after stitching. Take out the fabric from the hoop/frame. Trim the exterior seams to half an inch for a clean finish.

Your pocket is complete!

Thank you for joining Sweet Pea Studio! We hope you enjoyed this sewing tutorial and found it helpful for creating your own fabric pocket with applique and mesh. Happy sewing!