Do you have a button-up shirt that’s just hanging around for sentimental reasons, but is never worn? Why not make it useful again? I took my scissors and sewing machine to an old plaid shirt to create Easy Cuff Pockets!
This project is so simple and so fast to make. When I say fast, I mean FAST—I made one in just 15 minutes! These Cuff Pockets are perfect for giving gift cards for the holidays, or simply giving as a credit card holder or coin purse. If you’re holding onto shirts from a dear, departed loved one, this is a great gift for family members to have a piece of them with them always.
My favorite part of the Easy Cuff Pocket? YOU DO NOT have to sew on buttons! YOU DO NOT have to make buttonholes! Just cut, sew, and away we go!
EASY CUFF POCKETS
MATERIALS
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Button-up shirt with button cuffs
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Sharp scissors
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Sewing machine
STEPS
1. Start with your favorite shirt with cuffs on the sleeves. If you’re using a woman’s shirt, be sure that the cuff is wide enough to fit a credit or gift card. Place your card over the width of the sleeve to check the size. And make sure there are buttons on the cuffs!
2. Carefully, cut the cuff away from the sleeve. The cuff has a finished edge with folded edges. Be careful not to cut through the folded edge!
3. Open the cuff and check for any loose fabric threads and carefully trim. It is impossible to get all the loose threads cut away without seam ripping, as the seam allowance of the sleeve is still inside the cuff.
Remember: this is a quick and easy project—we are not seam ripping (or sewing on buttons or making buttonholes).
4. Fold your fabric piece up. With your sewing machine, stitch close to both side edges. If you have a stitch-in-the-ditch foot, now is the time to use it. Guide your fabric next to the guide on the foot and move your needle a little to the left.
Be sure to backstitch a few times at the top of the pocket. There is a lot of stress put at this part of the Cuff Pocket.
This image shows the back stitching.
And JUST LIKE THAT…You’re done! Seriously, stick a card in it, and you’re good to gift. This has to be the quickest project you will ever make! Enjoy, and gift with confidence.
