How to Make Small Dog Clothes

Creating your own small dog clothes at home is a cost-effective alternative to buying dog clothing from retail suppliers. It also allows you ensure a perfect fit for your pooch and allows you to express your own customizable style. If your dog is small, you can use materials as small as scraps to create one-of-a-kind creations for dog costumes and clothing. Basic sewing skills are required to make durable pieces that your dog will wear without destroying.

Things You'll Need

  • Fabric measuring tape
  • Tracing paper
  • Fabric
  • Scissors
  • Straight pins
  • Sewing machine
  • Decorative pieces
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide on the type of garment you want to create. For small dogs you could make shirts, sweaters, capes, hooded capes, skirts or even dresses. Once you have decided on the shape and style of your garment, you can begin creating your template.

    • 2

      Make the necessary measurements. Measure the circumference around your dog's neck, allowing for a loose and comfortable fit. Also measure around the widest part of your dog's body. Add 4 inches of extra length for hem. Take another measurement from the base of the neck to the tail and from the neck to bottom of the foot.

    • 3

      Create a template for your garment based on your measurements. This can be drawn onto an ordinary sheet of tracing paper. Divide your measurements in half; your template should be for one side of your garment that can be positioned on doubled-over fabric and cut for symmetry. Add one inch of excess material on all sides to account for seam allowances.

    • 4

      Cut out your material and pin in place, fabric print side in. If possible, place your pinned garment onto your dog to check for fit before sewing. Be careful not to prick your dog with the straight pins.

    • 5

      Sew along your pinned lines. Cut off any excess material along your seams and remove your pins. To create a hem for your garment, fold your fabric over one-half inch and repeat, pressing flat with an iron. Sew your fold together to keep your garment from fraying.

    • 6

      Add any decorative trim pieces to your dog's clothes as desired. Ribbon and applique patches will add color and interest to your small dog's clothes. You could even add custom monograms for a more personal touch. Avoid attaching small objects to the dog's clothing as this might be a potential choking hazard.