There’s nothing better than making something as a gift for a family member. Since your dog is a beloved member, making him a homemade dog collar can be equally rewarding.
Article Summary
Why Should You Make a DIY Dog Collar?
It is easy to run to the store and buy a dog collar. So why wonder how to make a dog collar? There are a few reasons:
First, collars often need to be replaced. Especially if you have a puppy, a collar won’t last very long as they grow. Plus, dog collars get dirty and torn easily with active dogs.
Secondly, you can save money. Dog collars, especially the fancier ones, aren’t cheap. So, save yourself some money by creating your own for a fraction of the cost.
Finally, making your own DIY dog collar is fun! Even if you are a complete DIY newbie, making a dog collar for your pup is a fun project. If you are unsure you can do it, read on!
Step-by-Step DIY Sewn Nylon and Fabric Dog Collar
We’ll start you off with these ‘how to make a dog collar’ tutorials with a mid-level sewn dog collar. Customize it by picking your favorite material or even scrap fabric.
Difficulty: Medium
Supplies:
- Cotton Fabric
- Buckle
- Tri-Glide
- D-Ring
- Nylon Webbing Strap
All hardware and the strap used are one inch. If you have a dog that pulls, it is worth spending a bit more on sturdier hardware and a heavier-duty thread.
Directions:
- Cut the nylon to length. For reference, compare it to a collar that fits and double that.
- Burn the edges with a lighter to prevent fraying.
- Cut the fabric so it will cover the length of the nylon. You will want it about 3.75 inches wide as well.
- On the selvage edge (self-finished, i.e.non-cut edge), press a one-inch fold.
- From this pressed hem, sew a basting stitch about two inches in for a guide.
- Flip the material over, and iron towards the other edge. Remove the stitching after. You can skip the basting stitch if you just want to iron to press in the guides.
- Tuck the nylon under the one-inch fold.
- Fold the other side of the fabric, so it covers the entire strap. It should get close to the strap’s end without overlapping.
- Use binder clips to hold the strap together, then sew the entire piece. Be sure to fold over and tuck the ends. You are essentially sewing a thin rectangle, keeping the seams close to the edge by using the presser foot as a guide.
- Slide the tri-glide clip around the middle so it will be adjustable.
- Pull the strap through the buckle.
- Loosen the strap portion that you pulled through the tri-glide, then pull it under and over so it is doubled.
- Secure this part in place by sewing the end of the strap to the inside loop part.
- For more secure stitching, sew the rectangle with an ‘X’ through it. Go over the ‘X’ as many times as necessary for desired strength.
- Slide the D-ring on the other end of the strap and pull it through the buckle. Leave enough excess strap to secure the D-ring when sewn on either side of where it should sit. Repeat stitching the ‘X’ in the same manner as above to make it more secure.
That’s it! Adjust the choker collar to your dog’s neck, and you’re done!
If sewing isn’t for you, or you don’t like this one, no worries. We’ve put together a list of 10 more DIY dog collars for you to check out – you’re sure to find the perfect one below!
Paracord Dog Collar
This first one of our how-to-make-a-dog-collar roundup tutorials is an easy, basic paracord DIY dog collar. Paracord is a general-purpose utility cord made out of nylon. All you need for this project is the paracord of your choice, a side release buckle, and a D-ring; no sewing required!
This DIY dog collar is the perfect choice if you like working with your hands and appreciate a straightforward project.
Skill level: Easy
DIY Leather Dog Collar
If creating a leather DIY dog collar seems intimidating, you may be in for a surprise. Leather dog collars are a classic look that is both sturdy and stylish, making them a perfect choice for all sizes and breeds of dogs.
If you love the look of leather and are curious if you can create it yourself, check out the tutorial!
Skill level: Medium
Did You Buy That? DIY Dog Collar
If you love the look of dog collars sold in stores but still want to learn how to make a dog collar on your own, this DIY fabric dog collar is perfect for you and your pooch. However, this one is even better since you can customize it with your own choice of fabric design. Retailers use stock patterns to appeal to the masses, so they are often pretty basic. Making a fabric dog collar at home ensures no one has the same pattern as anyone else.
This tutorial shows you how to measure your dog’s neck correctly and cut the materials to the correct size for your fur baby.
Skill level: Medium
Upcycled Dog Collar
Upcycling is all the rage these days and signifies transforming old or unwanted materials into a new product of better quality. In this DIY tutorial, you will learn how to turn old materials into a trendy upcycled dog collar.
If you love a bit more of a creative challenge, love thrift stores, and have a small or medium-sized pup that doesn’t pull, this is the dog collar for you.
Skill level: Easy
Bohemian Style DIY Dog Collar
It may sound crazy to create a DIY dog collar out of only thread. However, this easy-to-follow guide will have you shaking your head in agreement and wondering, “why didn’t I think of that?” That said, if you have a bigger dog that pulls, you might want to try a different one.
Skill level: Medium
DIY Jingle Collar
Have you ever let your dog off the leash, and he took off? Maybe you let him out at night, and you couldn’t find him in the dark. If so, then putting some bells on him might be best for you both! This DIY jingle bell collar will help ensure those scary situations never occur again. Plus, it is a festive choice for the holiday season!
Skill level: Easy
Upcycled Shoelace Dog Collar
Here’s another one for all of you upcycling fans! This one uses something we all tend to throw away without a second thought – shoelaces.
Even if you don’t have old shoelaces lying around, the DIY shoelace dog collar can still be a great choice. You can pick out your favorite colors and then weave them into a unique dog collar perfect for pups on the smaller side.
Skill level: Easy
Rhinestone DIY Dog Collar
This flashy DIY dog collar will add a bit of sparkling flair to your furbaby. Rhinestones are front and center on this design. This one is an excellent choice if you have a sweet, sassy girl who deserves a bit of extravagance in her life. It’s easy to make but is best for decorative uses only.
Skill level: Easy
How to Make a Dog Collar Out of Steel and Fabric
A stainless steel chain is a base for this DIY dog collar that can be as strong and sturdy as you need it to be. Simply pick one suitable for your dog’s neck and strength. The fun part of making this dog collar is picking out the funky fabric you will use to weave through the chain to create a completely customizable steel and fabric dog collar that is anything but weak!
Skill level: Medium
Strong Big Dog Collar
Do you have an extra-large or extra-strong pup? If so, you may laugh at some of the collars on this list, knowing that your dog would break them within an hour. Well, good news, because this DIY dog collar is one for the big dogs.
Skill level: Easy
How to Make a Dog Collar Safety Tips
Dog collars keep your pet safe and secure. They allow you to grab your dog when you need to. Of course, when it comes time to put a leash on, dog collars give you a way to attach them safely. Emergency contact information may also be added to your dog’s collar, so whoever finds them can return them quickly and safely.
Considering how vital dog collars are, you will want to ask yourself the following questions when deciding how to make a dog collar for your pet.
First off, does it fit? A collar should be snug but not too tight—double and triple check to ensure a proper fit.
Does your dog seem comfortable wearing the collar? Please pay attention to make sure they don’t notice it’s on. If the collar bothers him, it may not be the right fit, or the material may irritate his skin.
Is the collar strong enough?This point is crucial if you have a big dog or one that likes to pull. If the collar is not strong enough, it could easily break, and your pup could get loose and run away.
How to Make a Dog Collar FAQ
What material is best for dog collars?
The best material for a dog collar depends on your dog’s needs. For instance, a fabric dog collar is likely sufficient for a small pup that doesn’t tug. A more substantial stock like stainless steel, leather, or wrapped paracord would all be better choices for larger dogs.
What material are dog collars made of?
Dog collars can be made from various materials, including some you wouldn’t think of, like thread or shoelaces. However, they are usually made of fabric, chain, nylon, or leather.
How much fabric do I need to make a dog collar?
The amount of fabric needed for a fabric dog collar is dependent on the size of your dog’s neck. To be on the safe side, you want a piece that is a little over twice the circumference of the neck and at least 3-4 inches wide.
How do you make a dog collar with nylon webbing?
To make a dog collar with nylon webbing, you will need nylon, a D-ring, a tr-glide, a side release buckle, and fabric. For most of them, you will also need some sewing skills. The included tutorial above shows you step-by-step how to make one!
