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DIY Waterproof Dog Collar Tutorial

Make your own waterproof BioThane dog collar. Easy to do at home with minimal supplies.


A close up of a dogs collar with 2 additional images overlayed of a person making a collar

BioThane material is durable, waterproof and easy to clean. It's a popular fabric which is used in dog collars and leads. It's like a leather alternative which comes in lots of bright and fun colours.


This is a tutorial which is designed to fit your own dogs neck measurements, so it wouldn't be suitable for a growing puppy for example. We also chose to use a quick release buckle as we prefer these styles of collars for our dog as we can quickly remove the collar if we need to.


If you want to make it adjustable then check out our adjustable dog collar tutorial here.


What you'll need for the waterproof dog collar


  • BioThane material - we buy ours from www.paracord.co.uk The type and colour used in this tutorial is 19mm BETA, in pastel purple PU522

  • Side release Buckle in your choice of colour 20mm.

  • Scissors

  • Chicago Screws, for our tutorial we used M5x4mm. The first number refers to the diameter of the screw, while the second number is the height of the screw. For example, if we were using multiple layers of BioThane or a thicker fabric we may need need M5x6mm.

  • D-ring in your choice of colour, our material is 19mm width so the ring should be a minimum of 19mm.

  • Hole Punch the hole needs to be the size of your chicago screws, so in this example you need to make a 5mm hole. However if you had smaller or larger screws you could use a different sized hole to match.

  • Loctite

  • Screwdriver


Watch the video and follow along at your own pace!




Instructions


Step 1 - Measure your dogs neck, buckle and calculate the length of BioThane you need

BioThane length = Dog Neck Size + 5" Seam Allowance - Buckle Width


  1. Measure your dogs neck with a soft tape measure and make sure you can fit 2 fingers under the tape measure, it shouldn't be too tight. Measure a few times to be sure - as this collar is not adjustable. Write this measurement down.

  2. Add 5" seam allowance to this measurement.

  3. Next measure the width of your chosen buckle, as this will add to the circumference of your finished collar and needs to be taken away from your final measurement.


For example: 15" Neck Size + 5" Seam Allowance - 1" Buckle Width = 19" (cut a length of BioThane 19" long)


Step 2 - Sealing the edges (optional)

It's possible to seal the edges of BioThane however it's not necessary. There are a number of ways to do this but you it's crucial that you refer to the safety instructions from the manufacturer especially if using heat.



Step 3 - Punch the holes


In our tutorial we will be punching 8 holes in total, this means each side of the collar will have 2 screws for strength.


Start by marking a dot 2cm from each end of the strip, this will be where the first hole is punched. Continue each side following the measurements in the diagram below.


A graphic with a long thin rectangle with the measurements 2cm - 2cm - 4cm - 2cm. Indicating where to mark the holes.

Step 4 - Assemble the collar

Thread each end of the collar through the buckle and tuck the material under so the holes line up. This is where the screws will go to secure the buckle to the material. Open the buckle so you have one part on each end.


Start with one side by pushing through the screws with the smooth edge, these should be on the outside of the collar for a neater finish. Then fold the material under (securing the buckle) so the holes line up over the screws. Push the other side of the screws through the other holes. Add a few drops of loctite thread locker and use a screwdriver to secure.


Repeat on the other side but slide up a D-ring in between the screws, this is used for your dogs lead and tag.


There you have it - your finished collar!


A dog sitting among daffodils wearing a purple collar and lead

Make sure to check out our other tutorials and tag us on socials if you make anything! @thecaninestory

Disclaimer: This tutorial is provided for entertainment purposes only. The individual creating the project should exercise their own discretion when selecting fabrics and materials, ensuring they are safe and suitable for their pet. Always prioritise the well-being and safety of your pets.


You may find links to supplies to help you with this tutorial. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

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