Guest Author - Cheryl Ellex

There as so many useful accessories to make for dogs in general in addition to practical hats, coats, and fashionable bandanas; there are reflective stripped coats for high-visibility during a night-time walk, cooling bandanas to beat the summer heat, life-vests for the boating canine, boots for paw-protection in difficult hiking terrain as well as protection from the heat of pavement, medical conditions, or just for the senior dog for more traction on slippy-slidy wood or vinyl flooring, fleece-backed vinyl slickers for rain protective gear, cushy beds, snuggle sacks, pet carriers – the list goes on.

Sewing a coat for your canine friend first requires you to measure their length from the collar to the base of the tail. In general a body length of 6” to 8” would be extra-small; 8” to 10” small; 12” to 14” medium; any length longer than 14” would be large or extra large. By weight 6-14 lbs would be considered extra-small; 14-26 lbs small, 26-50 lbs medium; 50-85 lbs large and 85 lbs and over extra-large. Be sure and take a chest measurement around the widest part of the chest. Simplicity pattern number 4316 shows how to make functional and fashionable matching hats, scarves, and cover-ups for pooch as well as pooch’s caretaker. There are also quite a few websites that feature free dog clothing patterns that appear simple to make for any size pet. See the Related Links below for a Free Resizable Dog Clothing Pattern offered by Circle of Crafters that is sure to please.

Sewing a K-9 hat with visor for your dog will do more than label them as pretty canine fashionista or pampered pup – the hat will comfortably shade your pooch's eyes from the summer sun’s intense rays and can also be soaked in water to provide cooling comfort.

Our canine companions give so much to us – loyalty, love and friendship, assistance, piece of mind, dedicated service, add years of happiness to our lives and teach us patience; in turn we can craft them a little comfort. Search the web for ideas as many items can be made simply, quickly, and for little cost.

Links provided below for a wide variety of dog accessories to sew:


Simplicity has many patterns for dog coats, hats, whimsical beds, and accessories
McCall’s offers Doggie at Home Accessories
Butterick has charming matching Misses' and Dogs' Accessories
Vogue has delightfully elegant dog bedding

Editor Recommended Books