I’m excited to share that DIY Dog Collar Kits are now available! These kits were created specifically for students in this community who want an easier way to start building collars without the hassle of sourcing supplies. Each kit includes the materials needed for any tutorial you learn here, with cord lengths already figured out and hardware selected so everything works together. No guesswork. No ordering from multiple suppliers. Just open the kit and start creating. You can learn more about the kits, color collections, bundle options, and how the hardware works inside the Dog Collar Kits section in the classroom. ➡️ Head to the classroom to check it out. Ready to get your kit? 👉 Explore the DIY Dog Collar Kits here. If you have any questions about the kits, colors, or bundle options, feel free to ask below. ~Ashley

One thing I want everyone in this community to remember: Every skilled maker you see today started out making imperfect things. The first time you try a new skill — whether it's tying knots, measuring cord, or finishing a collar — it can feel slow and a little awkward. 🥴 That’s completely normal. Your brain is literally learning a new physical skill. Researchers who study skill development call this procedural learning, which is how we build muscle memory for things like playing instruments, typing, or tying knots. The interesting part is that once your brain begins forming those neural pathways, improvement can happen surprisingly quickly with repetition. What that means for makers is simple: → Your first collar might feel slow. → Your third collar will feel easier. → Your fifth collar will likely look dramatically better. Skill compounds. And honestly, that’s one of the most satisfying parts of learning a craft — you can see your progress. One day you’ll look back at your first collar and think: "Wow… I’ve come a long way." And that moment is pretty awesome. ✨ ❓What’s one skill you’re hoping to improve as you start making collars? Drop me a note in the comments. • Knot tension • Speed • Finishing cleanly • Color design • Something else? ~Ashley P.S. Here's some pictures a student of mine sent me a while back, with her first attempt at a Snake Belly collar vs. her second attempt. She sent me a picture while she was constructing the first one so I could give her feedback, and I immediately saw what she was doing wrong. Her second attempt came out much better! And here's a picture of her dog, Han, with another collar she eventually made. Her progress is coming along really well! 🤩

I’m curious where everyone is starting from. Vote in the poll below with which one sounds most like you. Bonus question: What kind of dog would your first collar be for? 🐕 I’ll go first — mine was for my doodle Ziggy 🐶 , who of course thinks every collar should be slightly bougie. Ashley

Creative hobbies aren’t just fun — they’re actually very good for your brain. Research has shown that making things with your hands can reduce stress and improve overall well-being. One study published in the Art Therapy Journal found that 75% of participants experienced reduced cortisol levels (a key stress hormone) after just 45 minutes of creative activity. That means activities like crafting, woodworking, sewing, and DIY projects can literally help your body relax! And there’s another benefit people often don’t expect: confidence. When you learn a new skill — especially something tangible like making collars — your brain builds new neural pathways through repetition and problem solving. Over time, what once felt complicated becomes second nature. That’s one of the reasons hobbies can be so fulfilling. You can actually see your progress. Your first project might not be perfect. Your tenth project will look dramatically better. And that improvement is incredibly satisfying. So if you’re here because you’re curious about making collars, enjoy DIY projects, or want to expand your creative skills — you’re in the right place. Every maker starts somewhere. (Source: Kaimal et al., Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association)

Chances are, everyone in this community is a dog lover! So, let’s meet the real VIPs. Drop a photo of your dog in the comments and tell us: • Their name • Breed • Their personality in one word I’ll go first: Ziggy — doodle — bougie Poll: What size dog do you have? Answer below! 👇