As summer is waning, the days are getting shorter but this shouldn’t stop you and your pet from enjoying safe daily walks! To help make your dog more visible, and even stand out in crowded spaces, here are a few tips to make a reflective leash or collar.
Materials
- Nylon leash and/or collar
- Craft or fabric glue (non-toxic, water-based)
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Retractable utility knife
- Reflective fabric tape (2˝) or reflective iron-on decals
- Iron (for decals only)
Steps: Reflective fabric tape
- Measure out the length of your collar or leash with the reflective tape, adding an extra 2 inches at the end, and then cut the tape (for a leash, cut two strips for both sides).
- Trimming lengthwise with a utility knife, carefully cut the fabric tape narrower than the leash or collar width.
- Apply the glue to the outer side of leash or collar, thinly and evenly, including the hand loop.
- Press the reflective tape down while keeping it centered on the surface. For a collar, this includes going underneath the loop and buckles. For a leash, repeat for the other side.
- Before letting the collar or leash dry, cut away extra tape.
- Follow the glue’s drying and cleaning instructions.
Steps: Reflective iron-on decal
- Measure out the length of the collar or leash with the iron-on decal and cut the decal. Place face down on the leash or collar (protective backing should be facing you). For a leash, cut two strips for both sides.
- Carefully press a hot iron onto the decal, pressing different parts for 10 seconds at a time. Protective backing will turn clear when done. For a leash, repeat for the other side. Turn off iron.
- Follow the decal’s drying instructions. Let leash or collar cool to the touch, then slowly peel off the protective backing.
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