In these times we all cherish our furry 4 leg friends as though they were our children.  I have two ‘kids’ of my own at home named Leia and Pippin.  Though only cats, I still spoil them with the best natural food and squeakiest mice I can afford.  It only makes sense then, that couples today are feeling inclined to incorporate their pets into the ceremony and/or reception.  Adam Sandler had his dog, Meatball, as the ring bearer; and Eva Longoria had Jinxie with her at the wedding.  So many people today wouldn’t dream of their big day without their other ‘best friend’.

Some couples will dress their dog up in a tux, but I feel a simple collar can make a huge statement without looking silly or making the pup uncomfortable.  Using many of fantastic ribbons and trims, there are endless possibilities for your pup’s look.  Greek Key is a very simple design that will look good with a lot or even something a little more elegant and floral could work too.  You can add rhinestones, buttons or charms to jazz it up.  Maybe you can leave it plain and undecorated.

The example I made was very easy and took no time at all.  You just need some basic sewing skills, a sewing machine and the materials. 

Collar

• 1″ Metallic Jacquard Greek Key (White/Silver) #38993, 1 Yard
• 1″ Nickel D-Ring #10418
• Silver Square Clasp #30160

Leash

• ½” Metallic Jacquard Greek Key (White/Silver) #28550, 4 yards
• Nickel Claw Closure #35596

Other Materials

• Thread, Scissors, Straight Pins

How To:

1. Measure your pooch’s neck, not too tight, but loose enough for comfort.  Add one inch for the seam allowance. 
2. Thread the clasp onto the ribbon and fold the ribbon in half in the middle.  This will double the ribbon for durability.  Sew a straight line right next to where the bar in the clasp is.
3. Place the D-Ring on one side of the ribbon (don’t put both through, just one side) with the loop facing out. 
4. Sew down each edge of the ribbon after the D-Ring (through both layers) and stop 1″ from the unfinished end.  Fold the ends under ½” and loop over the other bar of the clasp, sew shut with several rows of stitching to secure extra.
5. Viola, you have a custom made collar for your best friend! 

Now, onto the leash…

1. Thread the ribbon through the bar of the claw clasp until you get to the middle of the ribbon (just like with the collar).  Sew a straight line next to the bar of the clasp to secure.
2. Just like with the collar, sew down each end of the ribbon (both layers) until you get 1″ from the unfinished end.  Fold in the ends ½” and sew the edges to finish. Take the newly finished end and fold it about 14″ in to create the wrist strap.  Sew a small square to secure, sew over the square two more times. Clip leash onto the collar and your pup can walk down the aisle in style!