A Small Dog Coat Pattern You Can Sew Yourself

1. Gather the Materials

   If possible, match the hook-and-loop tape color to the fabric, in this case, black for the exterior and white for the lining. The tape in the sample is double-sided, eliminating the waste of one side of each color of tape. Choose the correct thread and sewing machine needle for the types of materials you are using.

   For best results, be sure to read through all the instructions before you begin.

2. Print and Prepare the Dog Coat Pattern

   Download and print the pattern pieces:

   • Pattern Page 1
   • Pattern Page 2
   • Pattern Page 3

   Be sure to print the pieces at 100%/actual size or as close to 100 percent as possible. The most important thing is that all of the pieces print at the same size so they fit together.

   Tape the small pieces to the large piece, matching the letters to each other, and cut out on the outer line.

3. Cut the Layers

   Fold the exterior fabric into a double layer, matching the selvages. Place the pattern on the fold, following the marking, and cut out 1 piece.

   Repeat with the lining fabric. If it is difficult to cut through two layers, open up the fabric, cut around one side of the pattern piece, then flip it over along the 'Place on fold' line to cut the other half.

   Note: The fabric grain must be straight on the fold. Do this by measuring the distance of the selvage to the fold and keeping the distance even.

   Optional: To add extra warmth to your dog's coat, cut a matching piece from batting, and quilt it to the outer fabric before sewing the layers together.

4. Pin and Sew the Layers

   Pin the outer and inner pieces right sides together, aligning the edges. If you are using a vinyl fabric, use clips instead of pins, since straight pins will pierce the vinyl and ruin the waterproof qualities. If you do not have clips, pin parallel to the edge, within the seam allowance.

   Stitch the layers together using a 3/8-inch seam allowance, leaving an area open for turning. 

5. Turn and Topstitch the Coat

   Clip all the curves and trim the corners to reduce bulk. Turn the dog coat right side out through the opening.

   Poke the corners into shape and make sure all the seams are open. Press the seams if desired, making sure the iron is set to the correct temperature for the fabrics. You can also finger-press to flatten the edges.

   Fold the seam allowance in along the opening, clipping if needed. Pin the opening closed. 

   Using matching thread, topstitch the edges of the entire coat, sewing the opening closed at the same time.

6. Attach the Hook-and-Loop Tape

   Cut two pieces of the hook tape (scratchy side) 2 1/2" long for the exterior tabs. Cut two pieces of the loop tape (soft side) 2 1/2" long for the lining tabs.

   Pin or clip the tape pieces to the corresponding tabs on the dog coat as shown below.

   Stitch the hook-and-loop tape in place, using thread that matches the outside of the coat. 

Make It Extra Special

Your dog coat is all finished and ready for your precious pup to head out for a walk. Keep it as-is, or customize it with one of the options below.

• Sew on reflective strips so your dog is visible while walking at night or on rainy days.
• Embroider your dog's name on the back of the coat.
• Sew a little pocket on the coat and store your contact information inside.
• Stitch a cute tag into the seam for a fun detail.