Find Out Why Dogs Say No to Coats

If you've ever attempted to dress your dog in a coat, you might have noticed how their reluctance can turn them into 4-legged contortionists.

Dogs often dislike wearing coats if they feel bulky and uncomfortable. That's why creating a custom-fit dog coat is crucial.

Proper Fit and Velcro Provide:
- Enhanced Comfort
- Ease of Movement
- Adjustable Fit
- Reduced Bulkiness
- Quick and Easy Closure
- Minimized Irritation
- Secure Fastening
- Accommodates Growth and Changes in Size

Adding Velcro not only simplifies the closure process but also ensures a snug, comfortable fit that your dog will appreciate. With a few expert tips, you can master sewing Velcro onto dog coats and provide your furry companion with a coat that feels just right.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you master this skill.

Interested in learning how to ensure your dog wear is the proper fit?
Get started by downloading my free workbook for a step-by-step guide to measuring your dog.

When possible, I use affiliate links to share supplies and products I've personally used and can recommend.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Choosing the Right Sides

When placing Velcro on a dog coat, it's important to understand which side goes where. The hook side, which is the rough side, should be on the outside of the coat. This helps prevent the hooks from catching on your dog's fur. The loop side, which is softer, should be on the inside of the coat, where it won't irritate your dog’s skin.

Direction Matters

To ensure the Velcro pieces overlap correctly, run the hook tape in one direction and the loop tape in the opposite direction. This alignment gives you the best chance of the pieces connecting securely.

Sewing the Hook Side

Find Correct Placement: Put the coat on your dog and using tailor's marking pencil draw a light line where the two pieces overlap.
Start on the Outside: Begin with the bottom piece of the hook side Velcro. Position it on the outside of the coat where you want it to go.
Sew into Place: Secure the bottom piece with stitches, making sure it's firmly attached.
Position the Top Piece: Place the top piece of Velcro above the bottom piece, ensuring they will overlap correctly when closed.
Sew the Top Piece: Stitch the top piece into place. Take your time to ensure it's evenly aligned with the bottom piece.
Add Middle Pieces: If your design requires, sew any middle pieces between the top and bottom pieces. Use your eyes to place them evenly for a neat finish.

Sewing the Loop Side

Now, you'll repeat the process with the loop side on the inside of the garment, running the Velcro in the opposite direction of the hook side.

Start Inside: Position the bottom piece of loop side Velcro on the inside of the coat.
Sew into Place: Secure it with stitches.
Align the Top Piece: Place the top piece above the bottom piece, ensuring they will overlap correctly when closed.
Sew the Top Piece: Stitch it into place, again making sure it's evenly aligned with the bottom piece.
Add Middle Pieces: If needed, sew any middle pieces between the top and bottom pieces.

Final Tips

Use Quality Velcro: I reccomend using high-quality hook and loop sew-on tape such as this Velcro brand you can purchase on Amazon. It will last longer and provide a more secure hold. Do not use sticky back hook and loop tape as it will pull off over time with use.
Reinforce the Edges: For added durability, you can sew around the edges of the Velcro pieces a few times or sew with a zig-zag stitch to ensure you have a secure hold.
Check Alignment: Before sewing, always double-check that the Velcro pieces will align correctly when the coat is fastened.

With these steps, you'll be able to sew Velcro onto your dog's coat with confidence, ensuring a strong and comfortable fit for your furry friend.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so try these techniques on different fabrics and designs. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out or leave a comment below. I’d love to hear about your sewing projects and see the wonderful coats you create.

If you need a more detailed explanation on how to determine the correct position of the Velcro for your dog's specific size and shape, check out the "Detailed Velcro Positioning and Sewing Guide."

If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out. I’d love to hear about your sewing projects and see the wonderful coats you create.

Interested in learning how to sew custom-fit dog wear?
Get started by downloading my free workbook for a step-by-step guide to measuring your dog. All my patterns include instructions on how to use these measurements to create customized dog wear for your ideal fit.

For more tips, tutorials, and patterns, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel for the latest videos and inspiration.

What's Next
Ready to put your Velcro skills to the test? Make a stylish and functional dog coat for your furry friend! Choose from two patterns:

The Cozy Coat: A great beginner coat to start with.
The Slicker Alpine Coat: Perfect for those looking for more of a challenge.

Get started today and create the perfect coat for your dog!