How to Make Small Dog Outfits

Clothes for dogs, most commonly small dogs, can be found at most pet stores and online. The industry is doing well as many dog owners like to dress up their pets. While some always dress their dogs, others like having outfits for special occasions. You can make your own dog clothes and with practice and experience, you can make more elaborate outfits. To begin, however, start by making simple clothing based on a belted saddle and yoke design.

Things You'll Need

  • Fabric
  • Velcro
  • Sewing machine
  • Paper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Draw your pattern on a large piece of paper. Use a newspaper or butchers paper. To draw the pattern, start with a rectangle. For dimensions, measure the length of your dog's back from his shoulder blades to his low back. Measure across your dog's back to determine how wide to make the rectangle. This will cross over his back and wrap down each side as long as you choose. Add one inch to all sides for seam allowances. Do not cut it out yet.

    • 2

      Modify the drawn pattern by adding a yoke at the top of the rectangle. The yoke should be a U-shaped piece that will serve as the collar. So measure around your dog's neck to determine how long the U should be. Make the U two to three inches longer for seam allowances and for the yoke to overlap and fasten.

      Add a belt to the pattern. At roughly the middle of the rectangle, add two narrow bands stretching out on either side. The full length of this belt, from one end, across the rectangle and out to the other end should be long enough to go around your dog's middle and have space to overlap and fasten. So measure around your dog and calculate the length you'll need for these bands. Remember to add an extra two inches to each band for seam allowance and overlap.

      Now you can cut out the pattern.

    • 3

      Use the pattern and cut out two of them with your chosen fabric. Consider using fabric that is easy to care for, washable and will be comfortable for your dog to wear. Easy to sew is another consideration. So choose something lightweight like cotton.

    • 4

      Pin the two pieces with the right sides (the outside) together. Sew all around the outfit, with the exception of the plain (back) end of the rectangle. You leave this side open.

      Cut off all the corners. And where the belt bands stick out of the rectangle, clip the fabric, making a cut toward the seam.

    • 5

      Turn the outfit inside out. Use a pencil or stick to help push out all the corners.

      Turn under the raw edges (stuffing them inside) along the back side of the rectangle saddle where the opening is. Sew it closed using a top stitch. Top stitch all the way around the outfit. This stitch can be done close to the edge.

    • 6

      Sew on Velcro at the ends of the U and at the ends of the belt bands. At this point, the outfit is complete. Simply lay the rectangle saddle across your pet's back and wrap the belt underneath and fasten with Velcro. Likewise, fold the U yoke around your pet's neck and fasten.