DIY Dog Bow Ties: Make Your Pup the Best Dressed on the Block
I first made a bow tie for my dog, Milo, because I wanted something special for a family photo. I didn’t want to spend a ton of money on a tiny piece of fabric. Turns out, making them at home is super easy, and it lets you pick out the perfect pattern for your pup’s personality.
Whether you’re sewing for the first time or you’re a total pro, these homemade dog bow ties are a fun weekend project. You can use old clothes, leftover fabric, or even felt. Plus, they make amazing gifts for your dog-obsessed friends. Let’s get into ten different ways to make your dog look absolutely dapper.
Remember to always supervise your dog with any accessory. The bow tie should fit comfortably, not too tight, and it’s best for photo sessions or short wear times rather than all-day use.
1. The Classic No-Sew Fabric Bow Tie
This is the easiest method and perfect if you don’t own a sewing machine. You just need a rectangle of fabric, some thread or a twist tie, and a clip-on collar attachment.
Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, then bring the ends to the center to form the bow shape. Pinch the middle tight and wrap a piece of thread or a thin ribbon around it to secure the center. Glue or tie it onto a small clip, and you are done. It takes about ten minutes.
2. Double-Layer Bow for Extra Fluff
Want a bow that really pops? Use two different fabrics. Pick one solid color and one with a fun pattern, like little bones or stars.
Cut two rectangles, one slightly smaller than the other. Stack them so the smaller one is on top. Gather the center and tie them together. This gives the bow a layered, professional look without much extra work. My dog gets extra compliments when he wears this one.
3. Upcycled Plaid Shirt Bow Tie
Old flannel shirts are a goldmine for dog bow ties. The fabric is soft, washes well, and has that cozy, rustic look.
Cut a piece from the back or a sleeve where the pattern is clean. Follow the same folding steps as the classic bow. The best part is that the edges of flannel often fray just a little, which gives the bow a charming, handmade feel. It’s like a tiny lumberjack look for your best friend.
4. Felt Bow Ties (Sturdy and Cute)
Felt is great because it doesn’t fray. You can cut it into any shape you want, even rounded edges or pointed tips.
Cut two identical pieces in the shape of a bow. Sew or hot glue them together, leaving a small gap. Stuff it with a little cotton or poly-fill for a puffy look, then close the gap. This makes a very sturdy bow that holds its shape perfectly, even after a lot of wagging.
5. The Elastic Band Bow (Quickest Ever)
If you don’t want to mess with clips, try an elastic band. This is the fastest method I know. Just take a piece of elastic that fits comfortably around your dog’s collar.
Sew or glue your finished bow onto the center of the elastic. Then, you just slide the elastic over the collar. It stays in place and is easy to remove for walks or bath time. This is my go-to for lazy Sunday afternoons.
6. Mini Denim Bow Ties for Tough Pups
Denim is durable and gives a cool, casual vibe. Old jeans are perfect for this project. The thicker fabric makes the bow stand up nicely.
Cut a rectangle from a pant leg. Because denim is stiff, you might need to use a needle and thread instead of glue. Fold it like a classic bow and stitch the center. The raw edges look intentional and rugged. It’s perfect for dogs who love to roll in the mud and still look handsome.
7. Patterned Silk or Satin Bow Ties
For special occasions like birthdays or holidays, use a shiny fabric. Silk or satin makes the bow look very fancy and elegant.
The tricky part is that satin slips, so pin your fabric before sewing. Use a very small piece of interfacing inside to give it some structure. The result is a glossy, beautiful bow that feels very luxurious. Just don’t let your dog wear it in the rain.
8. Bow Ties with a Button Center
A button in the middle adds a polished detail. It also covers up any messy stitching in the center of your bow.
Make your bow as usual. Then, sew a colorful or wooden button right over the center knot. It adds a tiny pop of color and a bit of texture. I like using buttons with little dog bones or paw prints on them. It’s the small details that make it special.
9. Reversible Bow Ties for Two Looks in One
This is a clever trick. You can make a bow that has a different pattern on each side. That means your dog gets two accessories in one.
Sew two rectangles of different fabrics together, right sides facing, leaving a small opening. Turn it right side out, press it flat, and then fold it into a bow. The center knot hides the seam. Flip it over whenever you want a change. It’s like a secret wardrobe for your pup.
10. The Fold-Over Bow Tie (No Cutting Required)
This is by far the fastest method. You don’t even need to cut a perfect rectangle. Just take a strip of ribbon or fabric about 12 inches long.
Fold the ends into the middle, then pinch the center and tie it with a tiny piece of matching thread. That’s it. You can use any scrap of ribbon you have lying around. It’s not as structured as other bows, but it has a soft, floppy look that is incredibly cute and takes less than two minutes.
Conclusion
Making dog bow ties at home is one of those crafts that feels rewarding every single time. You get to use up small fabric scraps, create something unique, and watch your dog strut around like a little gentleman. Plus, you’ll never have to buy an overpriced pet store bow again. Grab some fabric and give it a try. Your dog will thank you with a wagging tail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I attach the bow tie to my dog’s collar?
The easiest way is to use a small alligator clip. You can buy them at craft stores. Glue or sew your finished bow onto the clip, and then just clip it onto the collar ring. Elastic bands that slide over the collar also work great.
What fabric is best for a dog bow tie?
Cotton is the easiest to work with and washes well. Felt is good for no-sew projects because it doesn’t fray. Avoid very heavy fabrics like upholstery material, as they can be too stiff for a small bow.
How do I measure the right size for my dog?
Bow ties are usually sized by the width of the dog’s neck or collar. A small bow (3 inches wide) is good for tiny dogs like Chihuahuas. A medium bow (4-5 inches) works for most medium breeds. For large dogs, you can go up to 6 inches wide.
Can I make a bow tie without a sewing machine?
Yes, absolutely. You can use hot glue or fabric glue for many designs. Just be careful not to use too much glue, as it can make the fabric stiff. Hand sewing a few stitches in the center is also very easy and looks neat.
How do I keep the bow tie from falling off?
Make sure the clip you use has a strong spring. If you use elastic, check that it fits snugly around the collar but isn’t stretched too tight. A little bit of velcro can also help secure it in place if your dog is very active.
