Dog Outfit

If you think your dog's wardrobe could do with some updating, here’s some serious Hound Couture.

Step 1: What You Need

- Scissors
- Fabric Glue
- Pins
- Tape measure
- Paper for pattern
- Needle and thread
- Wide ribbon for ties
- Polar fleece in two colours so that the coat is reversible

Step 2: What to Do

First of all measure your dog – from neck to tail, and around the stomach. Then you can work out how much polar fleece material and what length ribbon you need.

You can also use these measurements to help you draw up a pattern on paper (ours looked a bit like a baby's bib). Cut the pattern out, pin it to the first piece of polar fleece cut around the edges. Repeat with the second colour fabric, cutting it to the same size. Then cover one piece with fabric glue, using a paintbrush to distribute it evenly over the material. Put the other piece of polar fleece on top, cover them with paper and weights such as phone books.

While you are waiting for the glue to dry (about half an hour) cut out shapes from the leftover material. We cut a star template from the paper and used that to cut stars in both colours. Pin the stars in place and glue them, again covering them with paper and weights for about half an hour.

Now for the ribbon. Sew two pieces each so that they will tie around the neck and under your dog's stomach. The ribbon under your dog's tummy will be more secure if you run the ribbon under his stomach, then tie it on the top of his back in a bow.

Tie them up and hey presto – designer dog wear!!
(Dog shown: James)