DIY Puppy Party Dress: Sew a Custom Gown for Your Dog with Free Pattern

Materials and Tools:

• Soft tape measure
• ½ yard special occasion or taffeta fabric (amount varies by dog size)
• ½ yard lightweight fusible interfacing
• 4-5 inches of 1-inch-wide fringe
• Sew-on white Velcro
• Matching thread
• Fabric scissors
• Straight pins
• Decorative buttons, bows, or appliqués
• Dog dress bodice pattern
• Dog dress skirt pattern

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Print the PDF patterns and resize if needed to fit your dog. This design fits a Chihuahua with a 14½-inch chest. Measure your pet's chest; enlarge via computer or print shop for larger dogs.
2. Fold fabric in half, pin skirt pattern with one edge on the fold, and cut two skirt pieces. Cut two bodice pieces, making them 2 inches larger than your dog's chest to allow for Velcro.
3. Place bodice pieces right sides together with interfacing at the bottom. Sew along marked lines with a ½-inch seam allowance. Leave the bottom edge open.
4. Trim corners at neckline and waist for flat seams. Turn right side out, using a dull tool like a toothpick to square corners.
5. Place skirt pieces right sides together and sew along marked lines, leaving the top edge open for gathering. This includes a hem and ruching line.
6. Hem skirt along dotted line with ½-inch seam. Notch bottom edge every ½ inch, turn right side out, and sew side seams, leaving 1 inch open at top. Gather to fit bodice width.
7. Pin gathered skirt between bodice layers to hide seams, then sew securely in place.
8. Stuff dress for shape. Embellish with buttons, bows, or appliqués for party flair. Sew 2½-inch Velcro pieces to neck and waist for easy wear. By experienced crafter Jenny Kitchens