DIY Doggy Coat: Quick & Cheap Sherpa Sewing Tutorial

Updated at: 15/03/2025

Is your furry friend shivering through those chilly autumn evenings? Don't break the bank on expensive pet store coats! This tutorial shows you how to create a cozy and stylish sherpa dog coat quickly and affordably, using materials you likely already have around the house or can easily source at a low cost. Forget about complicated patterns and intricate stitching; this project is perfect for beginner sewers and those short on time. We'll utilize the simple, forgiving nature of sherpa fabric to whip up a warm and functional coat that your dog will love.

This DIY project requires minimal sewing skills and even less time, resulting in a snuggly coat your pup will adore. Forget spending a fortune on store-bought options; let's dive into the easy step-by-step instructions and get crafting that perfect, personalized doggy coat!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Sewing machine
  • Scissors (fabric and paper)
  • Pins
  • Measuring tape
  • Fabric (Sherpa)
  • Velcro
  • Heat erasable pen
  • Ruler
  • Walking foot (for sewing machine)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise your dog while wearing the coat, ensuring it doesn't restrict movement or become a choking hazard. Remove immediately if they show signs of discomfort.
  • Use only pet-safe materials. Avoid anything that could be toxic if ingested or cause skin irritation. Wash the finished coat before use.
  • Ensure all seams are securely sewn and there are no loose threads or protruding parts that your dog could chew on or get tangled in.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Measure Your Dog

    • Measure your dog.
    Measure your dog.
    Measure Your Dog

  2. Create Paper Pattern

    • Create a paper pattern based on measurements. Round the corners for a better fit.
    Create a paper pattern based on measurements. Round the corners for a better fit.
    Create Paper Pattern

  3. Cut Sherpa Fabric

    • Cut the sherpa fabric using the paper pattern, adding seam allowance (1/2 inch recommended).
    Cut the sherpa fabric using the paper pattern, adding seam allowance (1/2 inch recommended).
    Cut Sherpa Fabric

  4. Assemble the Coat

    • Pin the fabric pieces together, ensuring the fabric is folded correctly.
    • Sew the fabric pieces together using a sewing machine, removing pins as you go.
    Sew the fabric pieces together using a sewing machine, removing pins as you go.Sew the fabric pieces together using a sewing machine, removing pins as you go.
    Assemble the Coat

  5. Add Binding

    • Create and attach binding to the edges of the coat.
    Create and attach binding to the edges of the coat.
    Add Binding

  6. Quilt the Coat

    • Quilt the coat using crisscross lines (2 inches apart). Use a walking foot for efficiency.
    Quilt the coat using crisscross lines (2 inches apart). Use a walking foot for efficiency.
    Quilt the Coat

  7. Attach Velcro

    • Attach Velcro to the coat's edges for fastening.
    Attach Velcro to the coat's edges for fastening.
    Attach Velcro

Read more: DIY Dog Sweater: Cozy Knit Creations for Your Pup

Tips

  • Measure your dog while it's standing for accurate measurements.
  • Use a half-inch seam allowance for a comfortable fit.
  • Use a walking foot on your sewing machine for quicker and easier binding and quilting.
  • Lengthen your stitch length when sewing multiple layers.
  • Consider the type of foot on your sewing machine when attaching Velcro; a quarter-inch foot with a hook might cause problems.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inaccurate Measurements

Reason: Improperly measuring your dog leads to a coat that's too small, too big, or ill-fitting.
Solution: Carefully re-measure your dog and adjust the pattern accordingly before cutting the fabric.

2. Uneven Seam Allowance

Reason: Inconsistent seam allowances result in a coat that's crooked or lopsided.
Solution: Use a seam gauge to ensure consistent seam allowances throughout the sewing process.

3. Ignoring Fabric Stretch

Reason: Not accounting for the stretch of sherpa fabric can lead to a coat that's too tight or doesn't lay flat.
Solution: Pre-wash the sherpa fabric and test the stretch before cutting and adjust pattern as needed.

FAQs

What kind of sherpa fabric is best for a dog coat?
A medium-weight sherpa is ideal. It's warm enough without being too bulky or heavy for your dog to move comfortably.
How do I measure my dog for the coat?
Measure your dog's back length (from the base of the neck to the base of the tail), chest circumference (around the widest part of the chest), and neck circumference. Add a couple of inches to each measurement for a comfortable fit.
What if I don't have a sewing machine?
While a sewing machine makes it faster, you can hand-stitch this coat. It will just take a little longer. Use a strong thread appropriate for sherpa fabric.