http://www.care2.com/greenliving/recycled-suitcase-dog-bed.html
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.
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20 comments
add your comment »What an adorable idea. My chihuahua is sure to get one too!!
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Kabin
Konteyner,Prefabrik
mega kabin
Konteyner
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thanksss...
Kabin
Konteyner
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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.
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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
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That is sooo cute!
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Wonderful idea. I'd just read in Yankee Magazine about making dog beds out of old bureau drawers. Thanks for sharing!
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Heh heh I love it!! what a kick! place for everything too!
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This dog bed idea is FANTABULOUS! Thank you for posting it! I have a medium sized Rhodesian Ridgeback/Labrador ( pics of Infinity are at www dot handmaidenfilms dot com) mix that truly needs a snug place to curl up in my drafty loft - I have a 23!!! year old piece of luggage that will be the perfect size for her. Peace, Jennifer
P.s.- I also have a cat and plan to do the same for her, she's been sleeping on my meditation cushion:), very chill Cat.
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Well DARN! We have 2 big retrievers who would never ever fit in even a large suitcase. BUT .... we also are owned by two nice but picky cats!! Maybe they'd like some new beds too? I'll go and try setting one up, and see if they'll deign to lie in them. Thanks for the cool idea!
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