Dress up your pet

If I can't find the fabric, Velcro, measuring tape, or non-toxic fabric glue listed, what can I use instead?

Use an old T-shirt, pillowcase, or scarf instead of fabric, use string and a ruler (as suggested) if you don't have a measuring tape, fasten with sewn-on buttons, snaps, or tied ribbons in place of Velcro, and substitute fabric markers or a craft glue labeled non-toxic for the fabric glue.

My pet squirms when I'm trying to measure, cut, or put the costume on—how can I prevent problems?

Follow step 2 by moving to a quiet space and giving treats to calm your pet, measure with string while someone gently holds the pet, pin a paper pattern to the fabric before cutting to avoid mistakes, and only try the costume on once glue is fully dry as the instructions advise.

How can we change the activity for different age groups so it's safe and fun?

For preschoolers have an adult do measuring and cutting while the child chooses felt shapes and glues decorations, for elementary kids let them measure with string, draw and cut the pattern with supervision, and for teens encourage drafting full-size patterns, sewing closures instead of using Velcro, and adding detailed embellishments.

What are simple ways to personalize or extend the pet costume project after following the basic steps?

Customize by adding a sewn-on name patch or reflective tape to the edges, make matching accessories like a bandana or bow tie from leftover fabric, try reversible fabrics for two looks, and create a themed mini photo shoot to share on DIY.org as the final step suggests.