Creating Cozy Pet Beds: A Sewing Guide for Your Furry Friends
If you love sewing and adore your pets, crafting your own sewing pet beds is the perfect way to combine both passions. Store-bought beds are often expensive and poorly made. With basic sewing skills, you can make a custom, cozy, washable bed that fits your cat or dog’s size and personality.
Why Try Sewing Pet Beds Instead of Buying?
Here’s why making your own pet bed is worth the effort:
- Custom Fit: Create the exact size and softness your pet prefers.
- Better Materials: Choose washable, durable, and pet-safe fabrics.
- Budget-Friendly: Use scrap fabric or repurpose old pillows and blankets.
- Creative Fun: Add your pet’s name, seasonal patterns, or colors that match your home decor.
Need inspiration? This guide from Preventive Vet outlines safe bedding types for dogs and how to pick suitable materials.
What You’ll Need to Start Sewing a Pet Bed
- Durable fabric: canvas, twill, fleece, or denim
- Stuffing: fiberfill, shredded foam, or old pillows
- Sewing machine (or strong needle for hand sewing)
- Thread, pins, fabric scissors, and measuring tape
- Iron and ironing board
- Optional: Velcro, zippers for washable covers
How to Measure and Size Your Pet Bed
Measure your pet while they’re sleeping stretched out. Add 6–8 inches to the length and width to give them enough room to move.
Standard Sizing Chart for Sewing Pet Beds:
- Small (Cats/Chihuahuas): 20″ x 16″
- Medium (Cocker Spaniels, Beagles): 30″ x 24″
- Large (Labs, Goldens): 36″ x 30″ or more
Step-by-Step Guide: Sewing a Rectangular Pet Bed
1. Cut Fabric for the Bed Base
Cut two identical rectangles using your measurements. Add 1″ seam allowance on all sides.
2. Sew the Bed Base
Place the fabric right sides together. Sew around all edges, leaving a 6-inch gap on one side for turning and stuffing.
3. Stuff the Bed
Turn right side out. Fill with stuffing until fluffy but firm. Use a foam layer for added support if needed.
4. Close the Opening
Use a ladder stitch or topstitch to close the gap. Or install Velcro/zippers for easy washing.
Bonus: Sew a Removable Pet Bed Cover
To make cleaning easier, sew a cover with a zipper or envelope fold that slips over your main bed. Use machine-washable fabric like flannel or canvas.
Other DIY Pet Bed Designs
Donut-Style Pet Bed
- Great for pets who love to curl up
- Make a circular base with a padded tube around the edge
Travel or Crate Pad
- Simple, flat pad with light stuffing
- Fits easily in carriers or crates
Bolstered Bed
- Add 3D edges or “walls” with heavier stuffing
- Good for dogs who like head or back support
Fabric Tips for Sewing Pet Beds
- Use soft, non-toxic fabric (avoid anything with glitter or loose fibers)
- Reinforce seams with double stitching
- Choose dark prints to hide fur and stains
Make It Special: Personalize Your Pet’s Bed
- Embroider or iron on your pet’s name
- Use themed fabric for holidays or seasons
- Incorporate toys or storage pockets for treats
Washing Instructions and Ongoing Care
Always pre-wash your fabrics before sewing. Wash covers every 1–2 weeks, especially if your pet sheds heavily or has allergies. Air dry foam inserts to prevent damage.
Eco-Friendly Options for Sewing Pet Beds
- Use recycled fabric like old jeans or sweatshirts
- Stuff with clean scraps, towels, or t-shirt strips
- Repurpose couch cushions or memory foam toppers
Final Thoughts on Sewing Pet Beds
Making sewing pet beds is not only a fun sewing project, it’s a heartfelt way to give your pet a cozy place to rest. You control the quality, style, and comfort level—and your pet gets a custom-made spot that says “you’re loved.”
Want more projects like this? Check out our DIY Pet Bandanas Tutorial or explore other ideas in our Pet Sewing Blog.