Do you have an old suitcase you don't use anymore? Maybe it's taking up space in the garage or attic because you've since gotten yourselves some new luggage. Alternatively, you can find them on the cheap at rummage sales and flea markets. Once you have one in hand, turn it into this easy no sew DIY Pet Bed!
I love when I can recycle things and turn them into something useful like pet toys or beds. And, you just can't beat this awesome idea for a pet bed!
This is a fun idea and the perfect bed size for small pets.
It is also a fun project that is inexpensive and is super useful.
My pups are always needing beds. Then again, when you have a whole house full of pups, well… you get the idea ?
These fun pet beds are not only for dogs. Cat owners may like this no-sew pet bed for their kitty friends to have their own special place!
Another reason I love this fun no-sew pet bed is there is no sewing required making it a quick and simple project!
I am NOT handy with a needle and thread but I know my way around a glue gun fairly well and love fun DIY and crafts for pets.
Easy No Sew Pet Bed made with Upcycled Suitcase!
Supplies you will need:
Old suitcase - Look for the hard shell type. They're durable and can be wiped clean with a wet cloth.
1 package of cotton or poly pillow batting. You can also use fiberfill material or even an old bed pillow.
1 yard of fun fabric or piece of fabric (or approximate measurements for your suitcase size) in your choice of color and/or pattern. Animal prints are a cute print pattern and a fun choice! Whatever you choose, make sure it is a fabric that will wash well. Fleece fabric is a cozy fabric choice. Also, heavy fabrics may work best.
Hot glue and glue gun
How to make this cute DIY dog bed:
1. Wash the suitcase well. For stubborn stains on the outside, a magic eraser works great.
For the inside, you can use baking soda or Febreeze to rid it of any musty odors.
Then use a spot treatment for any stains it may have.
2. To make it nice and full, fluff up your batting.
Place the batting inside the suitcase. Be sure and use enough batting so that it runs over the edges just a bit.
3. Lay your fabric over the pillow batting. Tuck the fabric into the sides so the top is nice and smooth.
4. Use hot glue to secure the fabric in place as the bed cover by applying the hot glue to the insides of the suitcase and pressing the fabric to it.
As the pet jumps in and out of the bed, you want the fabric used for the pillow cover to stay secure and not come out.
The hot glue will hold it in place.
5. I would suggest propping, and securing the lid so that your pet doesn't accidentally get closed in the suitcase.
You can also remove the lid simply by removing the hardware that holds it on.
Otherwise, and if it fits your pet, the lid is great for adding embellishments such as toys, a mirror, or a pouch for grooming items.
***NOTE: If your pet loves to chew things, adding embellishments not be the best idea. You would be better off keeping it plain and simple.
Another plus for the lid is it's great for traveling and vacations!
Just close the lid and your pet's bed is packed!
For cleaning the pillow cover, you can spot-treat it. Or, if it needs fully washed, then gently pull the fabric from the sides of the suitcase.
Wash and then simply glue the fabric back into place.
Pretty nifty for an upcycled pet bed, right?
Print the instructions for this easy upcycled no sew pet bed!
No Sew Upcycled Suitcase Pet Bed
Turn an old suitcase into a fun upcycled suitcase pet bed! It is a super easy project, takes only minutes, and your pup will love it!
Materials
- Old suitcase – Look for the hard shell type. They're durable and can be wiped clean with a wet cloth.
- 1 package of cotton or poly pillow batting. You can also use fiberfill material or even an old bed pillow.
- 1 yard of fun fabric or piece of fabric (or approximate measurements for your suitcase size) in your choice of color and/or pattern. Animal prints are a cute print pattern and a fun choice! Whatever you choose, make sure it is a fabric that will wash well. Fleece fabric is a cozy fabric choice. Also, heavy fabrics may work best.
- Hot glue
Tools
- Glue gun
Instructions
- 1Wash the suitcase well. For stubborn stains on the outside, a magic eraser works great.
- For the inside, you can use baking soda or Febreeze to rid it of any musty odors.
- Then use a spot treatment for any stains it may have.
- 2. To make it nice and full, fluff up your batting.
- Place the batting inside the suitcase. Be sure and use enough batting so that it runs over the edges just a bit.
- 3. Lay your fabric over the pillow batting. Tuck the fabric into the sides so the top is nice and smooth.
- 4. Use hot glue to secure the fabric in place as the bed cover by applying the hot glue to the insides of the suitcase and pressing the fabric to it.
- As the pet jumps in and out of the bed, you want the fabric used for the pillow cover to stay secure and not come out.
- The hot glue will hold it in place.
- 5. I would suggest propping, and securing the lid so that your pet doesn't accidentally get closed in the suitcase.
- You can also remove the lid simply by removing the hardware that holds it on.
- Otherwise, and if it fits your pet, the lid is great for adding embellishments such as toys, a mirror, or a pouch for grooming items.
Notes
- Do not add embellishments if your pet is a chewer.
- For cleaning the pet bed, you can spot-treat it. Or, if it needs fully washed, then gently pull the fabric from the sides of the suitcase. Wash and then simply glue the fabric back into place.
Dana says
Definitely need no-sewing options; I never was great at using a machine (or even hand sewing)
heather says
I so love this idea and it is so perfect for travel with our little dog thanks for sharing this one.
Janet Trieschman says
such a clever idea. please consider sharing your post with Creatively Crafty http://tryit-likeit.com/link-party-it
Jen @ upcyclednest says
Cute idea! That's one lucky pet!
Denise/DIY Crush says
This is very adorable!! I love reusing old things and suitcases can be found at thrift stores. Would love to see you at my craft party which is new Thursdays at 7pm EST. We pin every instructional post and share on other social media. Have a great rest of the week!
Shannon says
This is awesome and thank you for sharing this cute craft with us.
veronica lee says
What a clever idea! Now why didn't I think of this!
Don R says
This is such a clever idea, I paid $30 for a kitty bed a few years ago!
Carol L says
What a great craft to do. I love this. Since I have a few old suitcases I'm going to try this. You only need a couple of items & the project itself I so easy. Thank you for sharing.
Carol L
Linda Manns Linneman says
This is such a good idea. I would have never thought of doing this. Thank you so much for sharing
Laurie Nykaza says
This is such a great idea and to recycle items that can make a great pet bed are wonderful for the environment too. I have seen one like this with legs put on it too just too cute.