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Dog Bandana Pattern - Make this Easy Ragged Edge Dog Bandana

By Janet Wickell, About.com

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Measure the Dog's Neck Size and Get Started

dog bandana pattern

Sew together long strips (or "strings") of fabric to make a square.

© Janet Wickell

Determine the Size for Your Dog Bandana

Use a measuring tape to measure around your dog's neck. Determine the square size that, when cut diagonally, will produce two triangles with long edges that length, plus a little extra.

    Square size = size of neck divided by 2, plus about 3-1/2"

The 3-1/2" inches builds in the extra length you'll need for overlap in order to use a Velcro closure. The overlap naturally criss-crosses at the front to add a little extra style. Seam allowances remain on the outside with this rag style bandana, so are not much of a consideration.

You can test the bandana size by cutting a sample square from muslin or any other scrap fabric you might have. Cut the square in half diagonally and place one triangle around the dog's neck. Is there a bit of overlap in the front? If too much, use a smaller square. If not enough, increase the square size.

Some dogs can wear the bandanas as-is. Others look better with a folded self-collar. The pattern suits both.

Make the String Pieced Unit

Once you know your square size, gather the strips of flannel. Sew them together lengthwise, placing wrong sides together. I used a 1/4" seam for Charlie's, since he's small. The allowances will be visible, so up the seam allowance proportionally for a larger dog. One-half inch is as large as you'll probably need to go.

Keep sewing strips together until you've created a pieced fabric large enough to cut your square.

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