How to make dog clothes (sleeved)

1. Materials & tools

Materials (a medium dog (size M))

• Knit (stretch) fabric — about 60 × 80 cm (24 × 31 in)
• Ballpoint (knit) machine needle and thread
• Optional ribbing for the openings

Tools

• Sewing machine (or needle and thread)
• Fabric marker or pencil
• Ruler and scissors
• Iron
• Pins or clips

2. Make the pattern (auto-generated in Katagami)

With the Katagami pattern tool, you just enter the finished size and it drafts a seam-allowance-included pattern, tiled to print at actual size on Letter or A4.

1. Open the tool
   Open the pattern tool and choose “Pets” → “Dog clothes (sleeved)” from the tabs at the top.
2. Enter the size
   Enter the same measurements as the tank, plus front-leg circumference, sleeve length and sleeve ease. Presets cover small / medium / large dogs.
3. Set the seam allowance
   Use the slider at the bottom (beginners: 1.0–1.5 cm / about 3/8–5/8 in).
4. Print
   Press “Print (actual size)”, then in the print dialog set Scale = 100% and turn “Fit to page” OFF. Check the 50 mm calibration box on the first guide sheet with a ruler.

3. Cutting the fabric

1. Trace the pattern
   Trace the cut line and seam line onto the wrong side; align the grain with the grain line.
2. Cut the pieces
   Cut one back and one belly panel (centre on the fold) and 2 sleeves. Mark the front-leg notches accurately.
3. Finish the edges
   Zigzag or overlock the seam edges if the fabric frays.

4. Sewing

4-1. Fit the tank first

1. Baste the sides of the back and belly panels, leaving the front-leg openings, and try it on your dog to check the body size.
2. If it fits, sew the sides for real (leave the front-leg openings open).

4-2. Make the sleeves

1. Roll each front-leg sleeve right sides together and sew into a tube.
2. Fold and stitch a hem at the cuff.

4-3. Attach the sleeves

1. Pin each sleeve into a front-leg opening (between the notches), right sides together, and sew.
2. Repeat for the other side.

4-4. Finish

1. Fold and finish the neckline and hem with a knit stitch.
2. Try it on, check that your dog can move freely, and you are done.

5. Tips & variations

• Loose sleeves: add a little extra sleeve ease so the front legs move freely and it's easy to put on.
• Warmer: brushed knit or fleece makes a cosy coat for cold-weather walks.
• Build up to it: if sleeves feel daunting, make the sleeveless dog tank first to lock in your dog's measurements.