The best dog patterns to sew depend on whether you want to make clothing for a pet or a stuffed dog as a gift. Simplicity 1239 is a practical choice for a coat in small, medium, or large pet sizes, while S9520 offers a wider XS-to-XL range. For small and toy breeds, consider the lined, padded S9970. The Simplicity 3939 pattern adds pajamas alongside coat designs, and 8716 includes a stuffed dog with bear and cat patterns.
| Pattern | Best For | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Simplicity 1239 | Small, medium, and large dogs | Multiple pet sizes in one envelope |
| Simplicity S9520 | A broader range of dog sizes | Sizes XS through XL |
| Simplicity S9970 | Small and toy breeds | Lined, padded coat designs |
| Simplicity 3939 | Dog pajamas and coats | Four included looks |
| Simplicity 8716 | Sewing a stuffed dog | Bear, cat, and dog projects |
Simplicity 1239 Dog Coat Pattern
Simplicity 1239 is best for sewists making a coat for a small, medium, or large dog. The envelope includes multiple pet sizes, printed tissue pattern pieces, and illustrated step-by-step instructions. It also provides suggested fabrics and notions, helping you plan materials before cutting.
Choose this pattern if you want a coat project with size options in one envelope and guidance for measuring your pet. The listed sizing range is limited to small, medium, and large, so it may not suit dogs outside those categories. Measure your dog and check the pattern’s size chart before cutting.
Simplicity S9520 Dog Coat Pattern
Simplicity S9520 is best for buyers seeking a coat pattern with a wider stated size range. It includes pet sizes XS through XL in one envelope, along with printed tissue pieces and illustrated sewing instructions. Fabric and notion recommendations are included as well.
Compared with 1239, S9520 is the better option when the XS-to-XL range better matches your dog’s measurements. Size labels alone do not guarantee fit, so use the size chart and measure your pet before selecting a pattern size. The provided product details describe a coat pattern, not a pajama project.
Simplicity S9970 Padded Dog Coat
S9970 is best for small and toy breed dogs and for sewists interested in lined, padded coat designs. The pattern features hook-and-loop closures. One described coat has a lined collar and patch pockets, plus self fringe and decorative button trim. The kit includes templates, sizing information, pattern pieces, instructions, and fabric and trim recommendations.
Choose this option over a basic coat pattern if those design details suit your project. Its stated size range is XXS, XS, S, and M, so it is not the best match for a dog needing a larger size. Confirm measurements against the pattern information before buying fabric.
Simplicity 3939 Dog Pajama And Coat Pattern
Simplicity 3939 is best for sewists who want both dog pajamas and coats in one pattern. It includes four looks and is listed for pet sizes S, M, and L. That makes it a useful alternative to coat-only patterns if you want options for more than one type of dog garment.
The main limitation is the stated S-to-L range; the supplied details do not list XS or XL sizing. Check the pattern envelope and sizing information before starting, especially if your dog’s measurements fall near a size boundary.
Simplicity 8716 Stuffed Dog Pattern
Simplicity 8716 is best for making a stuffed dog rather than clothing for a live pet. The one-size pattern also includes stuffed bear and cat projects. Printed tissue pieces and illustrated instructions guide the project, and the envelope lists suggested fabrics and notions.
Choose this pattern if your goal is a handmade stuffed animal or a gift project with several animal options. Avoid it if you need a wearable dog coat or pajamas; it is an animal-stuffing pattern, not a pet-clothing pattern.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Dog Sewing Pattern
Are you sewing for a pet or making a stuffed dog?
Start with the intended project. Choose a coat or clothing pattern for a dog to wear, such as 1239, S9520, S9970, or 3939. Choose 8716 for a stuffed dog project. These categories use different pattern pieces and materials, so one cannot substitute for the other.
Which size range should you compare?
Measure your dog and compare the measurements with the pattern’s sizing information before cutting. S9520 lists XS through XL; 1239 lists small through large; S9970 is aimed at small and toy breeds and lists XXS through M; 3939 lists S through L. Size labels can differ between patterns, so rely on the specific chart.
Do you want a simple coat or more design details?
For a coat project, compare the features described on the pattern. S9970 specifies lining, padding, hook-and-loop closures, and decorative details. The supplied information for 1239 and S9520 emphasizes sizing, pattern pieces, and instructions. Pick based on the construction and appearance you want, and check the envelope for fabric and notion requirements.
What should you check before sewing?
Review the instructions, suggested fabrics, notions, and size chart before purchasing materials or cutting. For a pet garment, consider the dog’s measurements and the pattern’s stated size range. For a stuffed animal, use the project’s fabric and notion guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pattern includes the most stated dog sizes?
Simplicity S9520 lists sizes XS through XL, making it the broadest stated range among these coat and clothing patterns.
Which pattern includes dog pajamas?
Simplicity 3939 includes dog pajama and coat designs, with four looks and stated sizes S, M, and L.
Which pattern is intended for small and toy breeds?
Simplicity S9970 is described for small and toy breed dogs and lists sizes XXS, XS, S, and M.
Can Simplicity 8716 make clothing for a live dog?
No. Simplicity 8716 is for stuffed bear, cat, and dog projects, not wearable pet clothing.
Should I measure my dog before cutting a coat pattern?
Yes. Measure your dog and compare the results with the pattern’s size chart before cutting to select an appropriate size.