Add extra pockets to any outfit with a handy, historically-inspired tie-on pocket. This style of pocket was popularly used from the 17th to 19th centuries, and while our modern clothes have evolved to have pockets sewn in, we're of the opinion that you can never have too many pockets!

Choose from three pocket sizes, three shapes, and options for a bound tie, a casing and tie, or bonus belt loops. Perfect for toting daily necessities, sewing notions, or perhaps a small knitting project.

A beautiful, practical accessory that brings historical charm to modern life.

Skill level: Adventurous beginner

Add hand embroidery to create a perfectly unique pocket. Choose a design from the T+T embroidery collection, or create your own with the Secret Garden Embroidery Design Handbook.

Construction of Epoch Tie-on pocket - sample video instructions

Video Support: A full course of clear, concise videos accompany this pattern, alongside a comprehensive written and photographed instruction booklet.

Size Chart + Fabric Requirements

Choose between three pocket sizes: Small, medium, and large

Choose between four waist tie sizes:

1 - Women's/Curved Fit A-C (0-4) ~ Men's/Straight Fit 30-32
2 - Women's/Curved Fit D-G (6-12) ~ Men's/Straight Fit 34-42
3 - Women's/Curved Fit H-L (14-22) ~ Men's/Straight Fit 44-50
4 - Women's/Curved Fit M-T (24-38) ~ Men's/Straight Fit - 52-66

Finished Measurements

Fabric Requirements

All fabric requirement amounts are the same for both exterior and lining fabrics - you will need the amount listed in the chart below for both exterior and lining. If using the same fabric for exterior and lining, double the fabric requirement.

You may need more fabric if matching plaids or checks, or using a directional fabric.

Note: if making the Bonus Belt Loop option, no extra fabric is required.

Suggested Fabrics

For exterior: midweight linen or cotton, hemp, chambray, lightweight canvas, lightweight denim, lightweight leather, lightweight twill, velveteen, wool suiting, lightweight corduroy (needlecord, pin cord, or pinwale), brushed cotton.

For lining: midweight linen or cotton, rayon, Tencel, quilting cotton, hemp, chambray, brushed cotton.

Other Supplies & Notions

Spool of coordinating thread
Optional for bonus belt loops: medium weight fusible interfacing (woven or knit will give the most structure, but non-woven will work as well)
Optional for adding embroidery: embroidery floss and needles

Views

Epoch Tie-on Pocket

Three styles: Droplet (vertical slit), Willow (horizontal opening), and Tulip (overlap pocket)
Three sizes: Small, medium, and large, with sized waist tie (size 1-4)
Bound waist tie or moveable encased waist tie
Bonus: belt loops for attaching the pocket to a belt
Fully lined for a neat finish

Make old things new again! Twig & Tale patterns pair wonderfully with upcycled fabrics.

Look to woven cotton or linen shirts, linen skirts or trousers. Vintage embroidered linens, such as tablecloths, napkins, or tray cloths would make lovely pockets.

Helpful Resources

Would you like to make an embroidered Epoch Pocket? Our free Learn to Embroider series will help get you started.

Printing Info + FAQ

This is a print-at-home PDF pattern and includes three printing options:

US Letter/A4 - tiled and designed to print on your home printer
Copyshop - A0 wide-format file (33.1″ x 46.8″)
Projector - specially-formatted and optimized for home projector use. Read more about using our projector files here

All pattern printing formats include “layers”, allowing you to print only the size(s) you need, or all of the sizes. A comprehensive sewing instruction tutorial is supplied.

View pattern FAQ

Price

Collections

Epoch Tie-on Pocket + Secret Garden Embroidery Design Handbook