Last month I got a new puppy and what better way to celebrate than with a free dog bandana pattern. I had forgotten how much work a new puppy can be with all the chewing and toilet training! However, it feels like she has been part of the family forever and I can't imagine not having her. She has been patiently sitting at my feet all morning as I edited the video for this article.
Contents
Dog Bandana Pattern Tutorial
These dog bandanas look cool and are great to give a bit of personality to your furry friends. This easy beginner-level pattern has a casing that slips over your regular collar making it a safer option than a bandana that ties around the neck. Make several at once and give them as gifts to your friend's pets or sell them at a local craft market.
Free Dog Bandana Pattern - Sizing
I have made this dog bandana pattern in 4 sizes.
What Size Should a Dog Bandana Be?
Because this dog bandana pattern slips over your regular dog collar you can't go too wrong with the sizing. When measuring the size of your dog's neck, make sure it is not too tight. Most collars recommend you can put at least 2 or 3 fingers underneath. Here is the sizing of the Treasurie dog bandana pattern:
| BANDANA SIZE | APPROXIMATE DOG NECK SIZE |
| XS (Toy Dogs) | 11 inches (28cm) |
| S (Small Dogs) | 15 inches (38cm) |
| M (Medium Dogs) | 19 inches (48cm) |
| L (Big Dogs) | 23 inches (58cm) |
Over the Collar Dog Bandana Pattern - Supplies
Here are the materials you will need for your DIY dog bandana:
- Cotton fabric - I used scraps of quilting cotton as it is medium weight and easy to sew. Fat quarters of fabric are ideal for this project. You can make the dog bandana reversible by using a different fabric for the back and front. Choose a bright fun print that suits your dog's personality. A dog bandanna pattern is never meant to be boring.
- Your regular dog collar - This bandana will fit over collars up to ¾ inch (2cm) wide. I got my little collar from Kmart at a very cheap price.
- Optional - Ric-rac. You can choose to make a plain bandana or decorate the edge with ric-rac. I don't recommend using pom-pom or tassel trim just in case your dog decides to try and eat the trim. Better to be safe.
- Sewing supplies - Sewing machine, pins, thread, fabric scissors.
How to Make Custom Dog Bandanas
Make custom dog bandanas by matching the fabric to your dog's personality. Most cotton fabrics will be comfortable for your furry friend. Add a monogram or embroidery letters to personalize it even further.
Printable Template for Dog Bandana Pattern
Download your printable dog bandana template (PDF) from the link below.
The PDF will open in a new window. Just make sure you check the scale before cutting out your fabric. Like all my patterns, it already includes seam allowances. There are 2 pages. Trim and stick the 2 boxes together for the full pattern. Further Reading: How to print PDF patterns.
Reversible Dog Bandana Pattern - Step by Step Video
I filmed a video for this over the collar dog bandana pattern just for you! Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you like weekly sewing and craft videos. All my videos are short, fun, and colorful just like this one.
How to Sew a Dog Bandana Pattern - Step by Step
Step 1 - Cut the Fabric
From the dog bandana pattern, cut 2 pieces of fabric for your chosen size. I am making an extra small for my puppy. She is double the size of when I first got her but she is still tiny - it is all fluff!
Step 2 - Sew the Top Seam
Put the fabric right sides of the fabric together and stitch along the top straight edge with a ⅜ inch (1cm) seam. Press the seam open.
Step 3 - Hem the Sides
Press the sides over by ¼ inch (6mm), then ¼ inch (6mm) again to form a narrow hem. Stitch the hems making sure you backstitch the ends.
Step 4 - (Optional) Add Ric Rac
Optional - To add the ric-rac, flip the dog bandana pattern to the right side. Add ric-rac with the center ¼ inch (6mm) from the edge. Stitch along the center. (Sewing Ric Rac).
Step 5 - Stitch the Bottom
Fold the bandana with right sides together along the center seam. Stitch around the v-shape with a ⅜ inch (1cm) seam. Make sure you backstitch the ends well.
Step 6 - Turn and Stitch the Casing
Clip the corner and curves and turn the right way out through one of the side holes. Press well. Stitch across to form a casing, 1 inch (2.5cm) from the top. Thread the collar through the casing and you are all done.
Dog Bandana Pattern - In Conclusion
Ready for a walk? My puppy didn't want to stay still long enough for me to take many photos. The bandana can be worn facing along their back or forwards under their chin.
Enjoy sewing a dog bandana pattern and congratulations on having the best-dressed pup in town. Make yourself a matching bandana and wear it around your neck, as a scarf, or in your hair! (How to make a bandana)
More Fun Free Sewing Projects
- How to Make Pom-Pom Pillows (as featured in the photo above)
- DIY Hair Ties
- How to Make Napkins
- How to Make Pom Poms
Dog Bandana Pattern
Tools
- Sewing machine
- Sewing Basics - Needles, thread, pins, scissors
- Dog Collar - Under ¾ inch (2cm) in width
Materials
- Scrap Fabric (Fat quarter)
- Optional Ric-rac to decorate
Instructions
- Download the printable dog bandana template. (Link in article)
- Cut 2 pieces of fabric in your chosen bandana size.
- With right sides together, sew the fabric pieces together at the top straight edge. (⅜" (1cm) seam allowance)
- Press the seam open.
- On the wrong side, press in the sides by ¼ inch (6mm) and then again by the same. Stitch the narrow hems at the sides.
- Optional - Add ric-rac on the right side of the front along the bottom v-shape. The middle of the ric-rac should be along the seam allowance.
- Fold the dog bandana with right sides together. Stitch around the bottom v-shape wiht a ⅜ inch (1cm) seam allowance. Backstitch the ends.
- Clip the corner and turn to the right side. Press well.
- Stitch across the top to form a casing. 1 inch (2.5cm) is enough to fit most collars.
- Thread the collar through the casing.
Kristin
Thank you! The small is the perfect size for my girl! Super easy video to follow and if I wasn’t distracted with my girl; I could have seen it in about 10-15 minutes. I will be able to see the next size for her as she grows! Wish I could post a photo.
Treasurie
It was around 1/2 inch. You can use any size.
Renee
was wondering what size ric rac trim was used for this bandana? ty!!
Treasurie
Glad to help. I bet she looks adorable.
Katie Kaye
I love the pattern, my favorite, simple yet stylish. We just got a “used” dog, she is all black with a white soul patch. Because of the patch everyone thinks she is a boy so I am so happy, thanks to you🤗