How to Sew the Best Shirt for a Dog

Making your dog's shirts is an easy way to save money while keeping your best friend looking sharp. The materials are inexpensive and the process is fairly simple, especially for those of you who have a basic understanding of how to sew. Following these steps will make your dog the talk of the town in no time and could provide a great way to make some extra money on the side.

Things You'll Need

  • T-shirt fabric
  • Elastic
  • Sewing machine
  • Dog shirt pattern
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take your dog's measurements. You will need a few measurements to make sure that your homemade shirt fits well and is tolerated by your pet. Measure the circumference of his neck, chest and front legs. Also, measure from the center of the back of the dog's neck to about midway down his back. This will tell you how long the shirt needs to be.

    • 2

      Purchase your material. You can find material in any fabric store or local Walmart. Stick with lightweight T-shirt material as this material will allow the dog to properly regulate his body temperature and keep him from overheating. This fabric also allows the most freedom of movement.

    • 3

      Unroll the fabric and draw the pattern onto the back side. Draw out the basic shape of a shirt, taking into consideration the measurements you took of your dog's neck, chest and legs. Allow for a few additional inches as this will make the shirt comfortable even if the dog gains weight later on.

    • 4

      Cut out the fabric twice to create the front and back of the shirt and then sew them together. The seams should fall along either side of your dog. Add an elastic band around the legs and neck openings to keep the fabric taut and form fitting. Hem the waist of the shirt to prevent fraying.

    • 5

      Add decorations. Using non-toxic T-shirt paint, iron-ons or even your sewing machine's embroidery function, personalize your dog's T-shirt.