Welsh Terriers, Bo and Wallace get new coats
Turning an old raincoat into a colourful dog coat is not only saving you money but it is an eco-friendly way to give a second life to fabric you might otherwise throw in the bin. Let’s look more closely at the process of transforming a plain old raincoat into a custom canine fashion statement. Firstly, choose a raincoat that is no longer in use or has seen better days. Ensure it’s made from a material that is suitable for your dog’s comfort and safety. Materials like waterproof nylon or polyester work well, providing protection whilst being easy to clean and all sorts of other fabrics will work well to help make comfortable linings.
Once you’ve got your raincoat, gather your DIY gear – a sewing machine, scissors, pins, and thread. If you’re feeling creative, grab reflective strips for nighttime walks or any patches that could add a personal touch. Begin by measuring your dog’s size. Take measurements of their neck, chest, length, and girth. Lay the raincoat flat, and using the measurements, mark and cut the fabric to the desired size. Remember to leave some allowance for seams.We have provided some helpful downloads to give you a better idea of how to take the measurements and a pattern to use as a shape guide and starting point. Now, it’s time to get creative with customization. If there are parts of the raincoat that you won’t be using, like a hood or excess fabric, repurpose them into additional features for the dog coat. For instance, you could use the hood material to create a stylish collar or fashion a pocket for carrying small items during walks. Sew the cut pieces together following the measurements and your pups specific dimensions. If you’re new to sewing, consider consulting online tutorials or seeking guidance from experienced sewers. Pay extra attention to the edges and seams to ensure a durable and comfortable finish.
Add any embellishments or accessories you’ve prepared. Reflective strips, for example, not only enhance safety but also add a trendy flair. If you have patches or decorative elements from the original raincoat, strategically incorporate them into the design for a nostalgic touch.
Finally, try the dog coat on your furry friend and make any necessary adjustments. The goal is to achieve a snug fit without restricting movement. Allow your dog to move around and observe how the coat sits and if any alterations are needed.
For the fastenings, we use Velcro with adhesive to hold in place and then we sew round it to make secure. You could use buttons and poppers if that is what you have available.
Recycling a raincoat into a dog coat is a satisfying DIY project that not only repurposes old materials but also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. Your canine companion will appreciate the warmth and protection, and you’ll take pride in the unique creation you’ve crafted. By engaging in such creative endeavours, you contribute to a greener, more eco-friendly lifestyle, one dog coat at a time.
For interesting and unusual knitting sewing and textile art supplies aimed at those of you that love to make create and recyle see our products at corkwoodcreative.com
Bo after a busy day showing off her coat