A key requirement for the life jackets is to be Australian-made. As a part of this development early work was conducted by hone.pd to assess the feasibility and costs of doing this. hone.pd identified and collaborated with local suppliers capable of manufacturing the jackets in Australia and worked with them to estimate the cost of materials and production to assess feasibility. As experienced textile designers, we carefully select materials, processes and finishes to deliver the ideal mix of durability, aesthetic and functionality. Once feasibility was demonstrated, hone.pd came up with initial concept designs ready to detail.

To execute the detailed design stage of this textile product, hone.pd turned the initial concept into a detailed manufacturing drawing set, including consideration of manufacturing processes and materials. Sandy Snoots' dog life jackets utilise premium closed-cell foam, incorporating a structure made up of numerous small bubbles that provide exceptional buoyancy. The closed-cell foam is not only lightweight and flexible but also resistant to mould, mildew, and bacteria.

The panelled foam design strikes a balance between buoyancy and freedom of movement, offering extra uplift in key areas like the back and belly. This design's flexibility ensures a snug, comfortable fit that contours to your dog’s body.

These dog life jackets from Sandy Snoots feature premium Velcro®, durable YKK buckles, padded handles, and a D-ring attachment for tethering. The design prioritises functionality without compromising on style. Our product designers produced patterns of the selected concept during this stage ready for prototyping.

Working closely with our network of suppliers and Australian machinists through our partner, SupplyWise, hone.pd created a highly functional prototype for review and testing. In this stage, the prototype was tested for its intended use and functionality. This collaborative approach allowed us to achieve the high level of quality, reliability and functionality that the industry demands and that our customers deserve.

With the product design finalised, the focus shifts to manufacturing and production, encompassing manufacturer sourcing & setup, final material & detail specifications, and quality control design. Through our partner, SupplyWise, hone.pd can work closely with manufacturers to ensure products meet desired specifications within acceptable tolerances. The Sandy Snoots journey showcased hone.pd's role in supporting Jessica's vision becoming a well-designed, locally produced reality.