Recycled Suitcase Dog Bed

Okay, it’s not the most life-changing DIY you’ve ever seen, but the sad little dog bed my 4-pound Yorkie Winnie called home needed some help! Store-bought beds are easily $50 and not great quality, so I thought, “Hey, why not just make one.”

After much Internet research, a perfect solution (and creative inspiration!) was found via Kristen, a designer and Etsy seller.

Because Winnie is so tiny and likes to nest in small spots, I knew an ordinary suitcase would be too big for her. Luckily, in the back of my closet I had this vintage Samsonite hat case that I’ve been carting around for years–finally, a reason to dust it off!

Again, a stroke of luck when it turned out that Winnie’s old dog bed was the perfect fit! Check out Design^Sprout for more pictures and Kristen’s instructions (scroll to the bottom) for how to sew a pillow to custom fit your suitcase.

Next, I bought a colorful, vintage Afghan for only $1 (it was riddled with holes), cut off the offending parts and used some leftover yarn to sew a sleeve covering the old bed. I tucked in the open end at the bottom because I want to be able to remove it for washing. I then pounded a thin nail through the hinges, preventing them from ever being opened or falling closed, added dog toys (which she immediately attacked!), her favorite blanket and viola!

What was once kicked under the bed when guests arrived is now a conversation piece! All for $1. Doesn’t get much better than that.

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Yulan L.

3:03AM PDT on May 21, 2012

Thanks for sharing such a wonderful idea.

send a green star

Anne H.

9:22PM PDT on Apr 12, 2012

@John P, the first thing that popped into my head was the Salvation Army stores. Maybe the tops of big trunks would work for bigger dogs. You can also find scrap foam at fabric shops and upholstery shops. I put my pet bed stuffings into an allergy cover first, makes it easier to keep clean. Such a great idea, thanks for posting.

Brenda T.

2:55AM PDT on Mar 19, 2011

A good idea! I'd remove the lid if there are small children around incase the closed the lid!!

Camila K.

5:27PM PST on Mar 4, 2011

what a fantastic idea!!! Thank you!!!

Suzanne P.

8:39AM PDT on Jul 24, 2009

What an adorable idea. My chihuahua is sure to get one too!!

Past Member .

11:46PM PDT on Jun 18, 2009

thanks...
Kabin
Konteyner,Prefabrik
mega kabin
Konteyner

9:29AM PDT on Jun 14, 2009

thanksss...
Kabin

Konteyner

John P.

2:48PM PST on Feb 9, 2009

I work in a Salvation Army thrift store where we get many old suitcases that sell for a couple of dollars.I'll mention the idea to shoppers.

Jeanne M.

8:37AM PST on Feb 4, 2009

lol - And doesn't she look pleased with her now bed. Merlin (a senior puppy, terrier cross) has an old comforter folded thickly, and an old fleece bathrobe that I sewed into a circle for him to cuddle down in. Keeps him warm on the coldest winter nights.
"No matter how little money and how few possessions, you own, having a dog makes you rich." ~ Louis Sabin

Laurie P.

4:46PM PST on Jan 30, 2009

That is sooo cute!