Making a dog coat

Dog coats can be expensive, you might not get the style or colour you want so why not make your own, it might even be blissful!

There are five things I look for in a dog coat whether I'm making or buying:

1. Is the fabric right for the time of year?

2. Is it comfortable for my dog/s?

3. Is it easy to clean?

4. Is it easy to get on and off?

5. Does it make me smile when I see him in it?

We don't have many coats. In fact right now we have one coat for two dogs and yesterday it snowed! It's time to get my sew on.

Here's what you need to do to make your own coat.

1. Measure your dog: This is important and you might need someone to help you but if you keep a note of your pooch's size you'll only need a quick check before you make another.

2. Make or buy your pattern: If you are making your own it's worth considering making fabric pattern to create the the coat again. This opens up all sorts of creative possibilities; seasonal costumes, pyjamas, hoodies, tee shirts etc. You can even create a coat to match your outfit.

3. Decide on and purchase your fabric. Coats are generally at least two layers a soft warm inner layer and a waterproof outer layer often nylon.

4. Decide on your fastener types and trim. I favour a velcro fastener because its easy to get on and off and won't cause issues if I want to put it in the washing machine. Metal toggles etc could get caught on the fabric during the wash cycle. You can use clasps, toggles or buttons and if you have a coat you no longer use it's worth checking if you can reuse the fittings. If you don't have an overlocker you'll need to edge the fabric. You can use the bagging out technique, but when you are working with different fabrics it's easier to join the edges. Bias binding is perfect for edging your coat and it's fairly straightforward to make your own binding too.

5. Choose your embellishments. This is a personal preference and will depend on the style you are going for. avoid anything with small parts sequins etc. Pockets, patches, and embroidery all work really well.

Always follow the instructions on any pattern carefully to ensure success. I particularly liked the Pattern Scout coat and this is the one I'm going to make. I'll let you know how it goes.

Simplicity makes a nice coat pattern, I've always preferred drafting my own but this is a good way to go if you are a first-time sewer. If you are looking for inspiration Pinterest has lots of possibilities.

The pattern scout has a lovely Dog pattern and sewing tutorial featuring her own doggy demonstrating how to measure your dog, how to make your own pattern, quilting and making your own binding too. I love the simple way to shape and finish but might leave the quilting for a different coat. I'll let you know when it's done if it's sturdy enough without it.

I will be adding more style files as we go along, but here are a couple I've created so far for you to recreate in vinyl. These are great for doggie pj's too. Don't forget you'll need to alter the size to fit your pooch. Message me if you're struggling.

Doggie PJ designs

Summary

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