2 — Drawstring and Pockets

Sew each 1.5cm buttonhole as per your sewing machine’s manual.

Now, carefully cut each buttonhole open.

With the right sides together, pin the drawstring pieces together at the short end. Sew with a 1cm seam and press open.

If your drawstring is in more than two pieces, repeat this step to join them all together.

Fold the long outer edges of the drawstring in 1cm to meet in the centre, wrong sides together.
Next, fold the drawstring in half with the right sides together. This is the opposite to your pre-pressing at the beginning, and the raw edges will be visible. Pin the end to hold it in place.

Stitch each end closed at 1cm and then trim the seam to 5mm.

Turn the drawstring right side out so the raw edges are enclosed.

Edge stitch the drawstring closed along the entire length.

Stitch a box with your sewing machine from notch to notch. Starting at one of the notches, stitch in 1cm. With the needle down, turn 90 degrees and continue stitching at 1cm, parallel to the edge. When you reach the next notch, stop with your needle down and turn 90 degrees and sew to the edge. You will have created a stitched box along the pocket opening.

Next, you need to mitre into the upper and lower corners of the box. Do this by snipping into each corner at a 45-degree angle, using very sharp scissors and taking care not to cut into your stitch line.

Fold the entire pocket bag over towards the wrong side of the fabric and press along the edge of the pocket opening. Under stitch the pocket opening from corner to corner and press again.

Lay the other pocket piece on top, right sides together and matching the notches. Pin it in place.

Sew the pocket bags together around the long, curved edge with a 1cm seam.

Neaten this curved edge.

Baste the pocket bag to the front, either side of the pocket opening.

Your finished pocket will look like this from the wrong side.

Repeat for the pocket on the other side.

Next up we will assemble the legs and do the finishing touches!