How to Make a Dog Leash

Want to make your own designer dog leash? Now you can, but without the designer price. The following instructions walk you through making a simple yet stylish nylon and ribbon dog leash. Basic sewing skills are required.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Nylon webbing (at least 57 inches, more if you want a longer leash)
• Grosgrain ribbon (2 inches longer than the length of the webbing)
• Scissors
• Matching thread
• Swivel hook
• Sewing machine

1. Gather supplies. Decide on the length and width of your leash, based on the size of your dog. Buy grosgrain ribbon in a slightly smaller width than that of the webbing. In this example, I bought 3/4” webbing and 5/8” wide ribbon. Cut (or buy already cut) nylon webbing to desired length of leash plus 9 inches. I made a 4 foot leash (not including length of swivel hook) so I cut 57 inches of webbing. Swivel hooks can be purchased from some sewing supply stores or online. You can also take one from a leash you no longer use.
2. Sew Ribbon To Nylon Webbing Sew grosgrain ribbon to nylon webbing along both edges of ribbon. You will need ribbon to be 2 inches longer than length of webbing. Fold 1 inch of ribbon over both ends of webbing to cover raw edges.
3. Leash Handle Make the handle. Measure down 7 inches on one end of nylon webbing, fold and pin in place. Sew straight line approximately ½ inch from edge. Sew another straight line 1 inch away from first line. Sew an “X” between 2 for extra security.
4. Swivel Hook Attach the swivel hook. Put nylon webbing (opposite end of the handle) through the swivel hook. Fold over 2 inches and pin. Sew straight line in place approximately ½ inch from edge. Sew another straight line 1 inch away from first line. Sew an “X” between the 2 for added security.

Tips & Warnings

• For a cute striped leash, sew another ribbon in a smaller width over the first ribbon.
• Quickly melting the ends of nylon with a lighter or match will further prevent fraying.