How to Add a Kangaroo Pocket to a Sweatshirt

Learn how to add a front pocket to any sweatshirt. Nicki LaFoille shows you how easy it is to add a pocket to a readymade sweater or sweatshirt. The kangaroo pocket is often seen on readymade hoodies. In this video, Nicki provides dimensions to draw your own kangaroo pocket pattern and walks you through the process to attach it to the front of any readymade sweater or sweatshirt.

Nicki discusses different fabric types that are suitable to use for the pocket, and demonstrates how to draw the kangaroo pocket pattern, complete with ½” seam allowances.

Once the pocket fabric is cut out, prepare it by folding and topstitching the pocket opening edges. Then fold and pin, glue, or use basting tape to secure the remaining edges, except the lower edge. Nicki demonstrates how to center the pocket on the sweater and stitch the lower edge, all using a stretch stitch to preserve the stretch of the garment.

Nicki then demonstrates how to topstitch the upper and short angled edges to the sweatshirt to anchor them down. Use two lines of topstitching, at ¼” and ⅜”, to mimic the finishing details of a readymade sweatshirt.

It’s as simple and easy as that to achieve a hoodie-style kangaroo pocket on any sweatshirt.

For more readymade alteration and upcycling projects, check out these videos:
Upcycle a T-Shirt with a Beaded Neckline
T-Shirt Upcycle: Add Lace
Combine Two Shirts for Added Length
Hand Embroidering Denim
Adding Cap Sleeves to a Sleeveless Top