A stylish bandana is the perfect accessory for any dog. It’s a simple, fun way to show off your pup’s personality, celebrate a holiday, or just add a pop of color to their everyday look.
While you can find endless options in stores, there’s a special joy and satisfaction in creating something handmade for your best friend.
Learning how to make dog bandanas opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to choose the perfect fabric and custom-fit for your furry companion.
You might think that DIY projects like this require a sewing machine and expert skills, but that’s not the case at all.
This guide is designed for crafters of all levels, from absolute beginners to those comfortable with a sewing machine.
We’ll walk you through five adorable and easy-to-follow patterns, including several no-sew options that are safe, stylish, and incredibly simple to create.
Get ready to raid your fabric stash and start a fun new project. We’re about to explore the wonderful world of DIY dog fashion and learn how to make dog bandanas that will have your pup turning heads at the dog park.
Table of Contents
Prep Work: Measuring and Material Selection
Before you start any project, a little preparation is key to ensuring your final product is a success.
This is especially true when making dog clothes. Taking a few moments to measure your dog and select the right fabric will guarantee a comfortable, safe, and durable bandana.
Getting the Perfect Fit: How to Measure Your Dog
A bandana that’s too tight is uncomfortable and unsafe, while one that’s too loose can easily get lost or snagged. You’ll need a soft, flexible measuring tape for this step.
- Neck Measurement: The most important measurement is your dog’s neck circumference. Wrap the measuring tape around the thickest part of their neck, right where their collar would naturally sit. Make sure it’s snug, but not tight. You should be able to comfortably slip two fingers between the tape and your dog’s neck.
- Write It Down: Jot down this measurement. It will be your guide for all the patterns below.
Sizing Chart (A General Guide)
While your dog’s specific neck measurement is best, here is a general sizing guide to help you estimate the fabric needed for traditional tie-on bandanas.
- Extra Small (up to 10″ neck): Chihuahuas, Yorkies – Start with a 14″ x 14″ fabric square.
- Small (10″ – 13″ neck): Pugs, Boston Terriers – Start with an 18″ x 18″ fabric square.
- Medium (13″ – 17″ neck): Beagles, Corgis – Start with a 22″ x 22″ fabric square.
- Large (17″ – 22″ neck): Golden Retrievers, Labradors, German Shepherds – Start with a 26″ x 26″ fabric square.
- Extra Large (22″+ neck): Great Danes, Saint Bernards – Start with a 30″ x 30″ fabric square.
Choosing the Best Fabrics
The fabric you choose impacts the look, feel, and durability of the bandana. Always opt for materials that are breathable and machine washable.
- Quilting Cotton: This is the ideal choice. It’s lightweight, breathable, holds its shape well, and comes in an endless variety of fun patterns and colors.
- Flannel: For a cozier option in cooler weather, flannel is soft, warm, and easy to work with. A plaid flannel bandana is a classic look for autumn.
- Fleece: Perfect for no-sew projects because it doesn’t fray. It’s warm and has a bit of stretch, making it very comfortable.
- Upcycled Materials: Don’t forget your own closet! Old button-down shirts, t-shirts, or even denim can be repurposed into stylish and eco-friendly dog bandanas.
Pattern 1: The Classic No-Sew Tie-On Bandana
This is the simplest way to make a dog bandana and the perfect starting point for any beginner. If you can use scissors, you can make this in minutes.
What You’ll Need:
- A square piece of cotton or flannel fabric (sized according to the chart above).
- Fabric scissors (pinking shears are a great option here).
- A ruler or measuring tape.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cut Your Fabric Square
Using your ruler and fabric scissors, carefully cut your fabric into a perfect square based on the sizing guide. For example, for a medium dog, you would cut a 22″ x 22″ square.
Step 2: Create a Finished Edge (Optional but Recommended)
Woven fabrics like cotton will fray over time. To prevent this without sewing, use pinking shears to cut your square.
The zigzag pattern created by pinking shears significantly reduces fraying. If you don’t have pinking shears, you can use regular scissors and simply accept that it may fray a bit with washing, giving it a more rustic look.
Step 3: Fold and Tie
Lay the fabric square flat, forming a diamond shape. Fold it in half diagonally to create a triangle.
Take the two long ends of the triangle and tie them in a loose, secure knot around your dog’s neck. Ensure you can still fit two fingers underneath. That’s it!
Pattern 2: The No-Sew Fringed Fleece Bandana
This is another incredibly easy no-sew project that works perfectly with fleece. The fringed edge adds a fun, playful detail.
What You’ll Need:
- A square piece of fleece fabric.
- Sharp fabric scissors.
- A ruler.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cut Your Fabric Triangle
Instead of starting with a square, you’ll start with a triangle for this pattern. The two shorter sides of the right-angle triangle should be the size of the square you would have used in the pattern above (e.g., 22 inches for a medium dog).
Step 2: Cut the Fringe
Lay your triangle flat. Along the two shorter sides, use your ruler and scissors to cut a fringe. The cuts should be about 2-3 inches deep and about ½-inch apart. Do not cut fringe along the longest side of the triangle.
Step 3: Tie it On
The long, uncut side of the triangle will rest against your dog’s chest. Take the two ends of the fringed sides and tie them together around your dog’s neck. The fringe adds a bit of flair and texture to the final look.
Pattern 3: The Over-the-Collar Bandana (with Sewing or No-Sew Option)
This is a very popular and safe design. Because it slips onto the dog’s existing collar, there’s no risk of it being tied too tightly or falling off. This is one of the best methods for learning how to make dog bandanas that are both secure and stylish.
What You’ll Need:
- Two pieces of cotton fabric.
- Matching thread and a sewing machine OR iron-on hem tape/fabric glue.
- Pins, scissors, and a ruler.
- Your dog’s collar for measuring.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Create Your Pattern
- Measure: Measure the length of your dog’s collar (excluding the buckle). The width of your bandana should be about ½ to ⅔ of this length. For example, if the collar is 18 inches long, make the top edge of your bandana about 9-12 inches wide. The height should be about half the width.
- Draw: On a piece of paper, draw a rectangle with your chosen width. From the bottom center of the rectangle, measure down to your chosen height and make a point. Draw two lines connecting the bottom corners of the rectangle to this point to create a classic bandana shape.
- Add Seam Allowance: Add a ½-inch seam allowance around all sides of your paper pattern.
Step 2: Cut Your Fabric
Pin your pattern to your fabric and cut out two identical pieces.
Step 3: Create the Collar Channel
- Take one piece of fabric and lay it right side up. Lay your dog’s collar along the top, straight edge. Fold the top edge of the fabric down over the collar to determine the size of the channel needed. It should be loose enough for the collar to slide through easily.
- Remove the collar and press the fold with an iron. Repeat this for the second piece of fabric.
Step 4: The No-Sew Method
- Unfold the top channel flap on both fabric pieces. Place the two pieces together, right sides facing each other.
- Use fabric glue or iron-on hem tape along the two angled sides and the bottom point, leaving the entire top edge open. Let it dry completely.
- Turn the bandana right-side out through the open top. Press it flat with an iron.
- Apply fabric glue or hem tape to the top channel flaps you pressed earlier and fold them down to create the finished collar channel.
Step 5: The Sewing Method
- Unfold the channel flaps. Place the two fabric pieces together, right sides facing, and pin them.
- Sew along the two angled sides and the bottom point with a ½-inch seam allowance. Leave the top edge open.
- Clip the point and turn the bandana right-side out. Press it flat.
- Fold the channel flaps down along the pressed line and topstitch them in place to create the collar channel.
Now, simply slide the collar through the channel and you have a beautiful, secure bandana!
Pattern 4: The Reversible Tie-On Bandana (with Sewing)
This project creates a high-quality, durable bandana that gives you two looks in one! It’s a fantastic way to practice basic sewing skills.
What You’ll Need:
- Two different (but coordinating) square pieces of cotton fabric.
- Matching thread and a sewing machine.
- Pins, scissors, and a ruler.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cut and Prepare Fabric
Cut two squares of fabric to your desired size. Place them together, right sides facing, ensuring all edges are perfectly aligned. Pin them in place.
Step 2: Sew the Fabric
Using your sewing machine, sew around all four sides of the square with a ½-inch seam allowance. CRITICAL: Leave a 3-4 inch opening on one side for turning.
Step 3: Turn and Press
Clip the four corners of the square. This removes bulk and allows for sharp, crisp corners. Carefully turn the entire square right-side out through the opening you left. Use a chopstick or a dull pencil to gently poke out the corners.
Step 4: Topstitch to Finish
Press the entire square flat with an iron. Neatly tuck in the raw edges of the opening so they are flush with the sewn seam.
Now, topstitch around the entire perimeter of the square, about ¼-inch from the edge. This will close the opening and give your bandana a professional, finished look.
To use, simply fold the square into a triangle and tie it around your dog’s neck. You can flip it over to show the other fabric anytime you want a new look.
Pattern 5: The Frayed Edge Denim Bandana
This upcycled project gives a rugged, stylish look that is perfect for any cool pup. It uses the sturdy hem of an old pair of jeans for a no-sew top edge.
What You’ll Need:
- An old pair of denim jeans.
- Sharp scissors.
- A ruler.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cut the Hem
Take an old pair of jeans and cut off the bottom hem of one of the legs. Cut a piece that is about 4-5 inches longer than your dog’s neck measurement. This thick, factory-sewn hem will be the top edge of your bandana.
Step 2: Cut the Triangle Shape
Lay the hem piece flat. From the bottom (the raw edge, not the hemmed edge), find the center point. Measure down about 6-8 inches (depending on how long you want the bandana) and make a mark. Cut from the ends of the hem piece down to this point to create your triangle shape.
Step 3: Create the Fray
To get that cool, frayed look, simply make a few small snips along the two angled, raw edges of the bandana. Then, either rub the edges with sandpaper or just toss the bandana in the washer and dryer. The wash cycle will create a perfect, soft fray.
Step 4: Tie It On
The finished hem provides a sturdy top edge. Simply tie the ends around your dog’s neck for a rugged and durable accessory.
Your Creative Journey in Pet Fashion
You’ve now learned five fun and easy methods for how to make dog bandanas. Whether you chose a quick no-sew option or created a reversible, topstitched masterpiece, you’ve made a unique accessory that’s full of love. This is a wonderful way to express your creativity while pampering your pet.
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Add a pom-pom trim to the edge, use fabric paint to add your dog’s name, or try different fabric combinations. The possibilities are endless.
The best part of this entire process is seeing your dog proudly sport their new, custom-made accessory. So, keep practicing, have fun, and enjoy the rewarding experience of creating for your four-legged family member. Happy crafting
