DIY Personalized Pet Bandanas

Instructions

STEP 1: GET MY FREE DIY PERSONALIZED PET BANDANA PATTERN FILE

First, download Design #297 DIY PERSONALIZED PET BANDANA PATTERN SVG/DXF/PDF/PNG from my free resource library (get the password to the library in the form at the bottom of this page).  I’ve included SVG and DXF files for cutting fabric on a cutting machine, PDF files for cutting by hand, and PNG files for sublimating designs onto pre-cut sublimation blanks. 

Here is what the SVG file will look like when you upload it to Cricut Design Space:

TIP: If you are not sure how to upload an SVG cut file to Cricut Design Space, watch this helpful video training series I made. If you are on an iPad or iPhone, here is how to download and upload SVG files to the Cricut Design Space app.

The PNG folder includes these nine cute designs, just perfect for sublimation.

STEP 2: PICK YOUR BANDANA PATTERN & SIZE

The next thing you will need to do is decide on a size.

My pet bandana pattern has three sizes to choose from: small, medium, and large. If you're not sure what bandana size you need, choose a size close to the size of your dog's collar.

Here's a look at the different size patterns:

1. Small: Fits necks 12 - 14 inches (yellow)
2. Medium: Fits necks 15 - 17 inches (teal)
3. Large: Fits necks 18 - 20 inches (red

For this tutorial I'm going to show you how to make the large bandana (red). I'm going to use the Cricut Maker to cut the fabric, but you can use the Cricut Explore Air 2 as well or even cut by hand!

So first I'm going to select the pet bandana pattern I want in Cricut Design Space.

First, zoom out so you can see all the choices.

Now with the design selected click "Ungroup" in the Layers panel on the right side of the screen.

You will want to hide the pet bandana size(s) you DON'T want. To do this, simply click on the "eye" icon next to the word "Attach" above the size(s) you won't be using.

If you did it right, this is what you should see... just the red pattern.

Now, you will see the word "Pen" just above the red bandana in the Layers column on the right, click on that.

Next, move your cursor over where you see "Operation" on the top left side of the screen. Click on the black outline box.

Then, click on the arrow that's pointing down...

...and select "Marker"...

...then choose "Blue (washable fabric)".

The fabric marker will mark your pet bandana seam allowance to help with sewing. This is completely optional, so if you'd rather skip this step you can simply "hide" the "Pen" line by clicking on the "eye" icon next to the word "Pen."

STEP 3: CUT YOUR BANDANA PATTERN

Now click "Make It".

On the next screen click "OK" at the top. That's just a reminder that you will need to use a 12"x24" mat for this cut. Click "Continue."

Choose your pet bandana fabric on the next screen. I'm using 100% cotton for my bandana.

I always select "MORE" under pressure and you'll see a reminder to change your tool to a "Rotary Blade" in Clamp B.

If you choose to use the fabric marker you will also need to insert this into Clamp A.

TIP: I always make sure to the put my cap on the other end of my pen when I'm using it so I don't lose it. Also, once I'm done, I always store my pens cap-side down.

Now load your cutting mat (pink fabric mat) into your machine and hit the Cricut symbol to start the cut.

Once the cut is complete just peel your fabric off the mat, it's super simple!

STEP 4: IRON YOUR FABRIC

I always like to iron my fabric before I sew. For this project I used my Cricut Easy Press Mini Heat Press on the lowest setting to press the fabric along the seam allowance marked on the fabric to make sewing a breeze!

STEP 5: SEW THE PET BANDANA

Now it's time to sew. Start by sewing all the edges of the pet bandana, making sure to start and end with a back stitch. This prevents the stitching from coming undone.

Next, fold down the top of the fabric (opposite the point-side) until it meets the top of the triangular part of the pattern. This will be the opening for the collar. I pressed this part as well with my Cricut Easy Press Mini Heat Press before sewing,

Then back to the sewing machine for the final stitches of the pet bandana. Again, I started and ended with a backstitch. It's that simple.

STEP 6: ATTACH THE BANDANA TO THE COLLAR

Now take your dog collar and insert one end into the channel or tunnel at the top of the pet bandana and feed it through the other side and there you go! You have made your very own Personalized Pet Bandana!

STEP 7: PERSONALIZE YOUR PET BANDANA

If you'd like to personalize this pet bandana, you can also add your pet's name. I used my Cricut Joy and Smart Iron-On Glitter Vinyl to do this. If you are new to Iron-On Vinyl you can watch this helpful tutorial I made that explains how it's done.

VARIATION: SUBLIMATE A PET BANDANA

I am going to download and use the Border Collie design to decorate one of these ready-made sublimation pet bandanas.

After locating your chosen PNG file, print it using Google Docs.

TIP: Learn step-by-step how to print your design from Google Docs in my Sublimation T-Shirts tutorial.

After I’ve printed my image, I am going to carefully feather the edges around the design.

Next, I’m going to place the bandana on my EasyPress Mat, which I’ve covered with a sheet of cardstock, and preheat my EasyPress to 375°F (190° C).

Remember, only sublimate when you have good ventilation. I will use my fan and open the window to avoid inhaling fumes.

While my EasyPress heats up, I’ll use my lint roller to remove any dust or debris from the bandana. This will ensure a great transfer.

After the EasyPress is preheated, press the bandana for 10 seconds to press out any wrinkles and moisture.

Next, lay the image print side down on the bandana and use a few small pieces of heat-resistant tape to keep the image in place

TIP: Using too much tape can result in press marks around the edge of the design, so be sparing with it.

Place a sheet of butcher paper on top of the sublimation print and press for 30 seconds.

After the EasyPress timer goes off, lift the press straight up and place it back in the cradle. Allow the bandana and paper to cool before removing them from the pressing mat.

Remove the butcher paper and the transfer sheet to reveal your beautiful pet bandana!

Before giving these beautiful bandanas to Chloe and Hunter, I think it’s a good idea to sew on a velcro closure. This way the bandana will break loose in case of an emergency.

To check the placement of the velcro, I’ll simply place the bandana around my pet’s neck and hold the ends in place. I’ll be sure I can fit two of my fingers between the bandana and my dog so I know it’s comfortable and not too tight. I’ll use a Cricut Washable pen to make a small dot where the closure should be placed.

Next, cut the Velcro to make a square, separate the loop side from the hook side, and sew the squares securely in place. Sew the velcro pieces on very well so they won’t come off. Sewing a square around the edges will help! This way, the bandana will come undone easily in case of emergencies!

These personalized pet bandanas make great gifts! And I just love making different designs for different seasons and occasions. My rescue dogs Hunter and Chloe are big fans, too!