How To Strengthen Slash Pocket Corners

When sewing slash pockets, it is good practice to overlay each corner stitch with an additional layer of stitching applied at a short stitch setting.  This second stitch should be added directly on top of the existing corner stitch at about 1" distance from each corner point as shown above. Keep in mind that this stitch overlay is applied prior to cutting the pocket opening. ​

In the construction process, the pocket opening is cut into each corner, right next to the corner stitch. The reinforced stitching provides added strength and stability at these corner. Naturally, in a slash pocket application, this area is the most vulnerable and subject to heavier wear. 

The double stitch overlay locks the fabric threads which prevents the edges from unraveling or pulling through to the right side of the pocket application. ​

Always reinforce slash pocket corners regardless of pocket shape or whether the corners are inward-facing or outward-facing (shown in the star pocket example above). Again, the overlay stitch is added at 1" distance from each corner on top of all existing stitch lines. 

In order for the star-shaped pocket to lay completely flat and tension free, it is slashed into each corner right next to the stitching. In this case, the stitch overlay provides some much needed strength and stability at each slashed corner. 

In a completed slash pocket application, the finished edges should lay flat and tension-free while also maintaining their strength and stability throughout the pocket's life cycle.