Episode 15 - Designing for Personality, Not Just Fit
Episode Air Date: July 7, 2025
Runtime: 9:41
✨ Episode Summary
What makes a great dog coat? Sure, it has to fit—but the real magic is when it also feels right. In this episode, Jill shares how personality-driven design can transform a functional pet garment into something personal, expressive, and unforgettable. You’ll learn how to reflect your dog's vibe—or your customer's style—through fabric, details, and design choices. It’s not about flashy trends. It’s about knowing who you’re designing for.
🕒 Episode Highlights
Here are a few key moments from this episode:
00:00 – Designing for Personality
Why a good fit isn't enough—designing with intention creates impact.
01:26 – Practical Meets Personal
How functionality and personality work together in dog wear design.
02:04 – Questions to Guide Your Design
Tips to tailor your patterns to different dog personalities and lifestyles.
03:01 – Start with One Element
How a small change—like a collar or lining—can carry huge personality.
03:51 – Real Story: Marley Davidson & Easy Rider
Jill shares two designs that made dogs (and owners) feel iconic.
05:30 – Why Pattern Choice Matters
How simple base patterns can support big creative expression.
05:58 – Your Personality Matters Too
Your choices as a maker—minimalist, maximalist, sustainable—show up in your work.
06:57 – Function vs. Personality
Why people connect to personality in patterns, not just features.
08:01 – Your Next Step: Start Sketching
Jill introduces the free Dog Coat Sketch Templates to explore your own ideas.
🧵 What You’ll Learn
- Why a functional dog coat doesn’t have to be boring
- How to start designing for personality (not just size)
- What questions to ask before picking fabric or closures
- Real-life examples of personality-driven dog wear
- Why your own identity shapes how and what you design
- How to start visualizing your own designs—without needing to draw
📥 Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're ready to start designing coats that do more than just fit—coats that speak—then the Dog Coat Sketch Templates Kit is the perfect place to begin. Whether you're sketching for your own pup or building a collection, these free templates help you map out ideas, test colour combinations, and explore shape and style, no drawing skills required.
👉 Download the Dog Coat Sketch Templates
👉 Shop the Cozy Coat Pattern
👉 Join the Hack Your Pattern Waitlist
👉 More Free Resources
💬 Got Questions or Feedback?
If something in today’s episode resonated with you—or brought up a question you’ve been holding—I’d love to hear from you.
DM me anytime over on Instagram @thankdogwemadeit, or come join the conversation inside the Creative Circle. This is exactly the kind of stuff we talk about together.
You can also comment, rate, or follow the podcast here:
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You don’t have to do this alone—and you’re definitely not the only one feeling it.
