Introduction: Suitcase Pet Bed

By Bobbee
About: Hello my name is Bob and I like to make things. www.youtube.com/bobbee

In this Instructable I show you to make a cat bed from an old suitcase.

Step 1: Check Out My Quick Video Tutorial!

In this video I show you how to make the suitcase pet bed.

Along with the video you can follow the (easy) steps below :-) Youtube Video

Step 2: Gather Your Materials.

For this project I use the following materials:

  • An old suitcase (I like the vintage style suitcases but you can use any you like).
  • Something to elevate the suitcase. I used some wood poles.
  • Varnish for the wood (optional)
  • Foam filling for the mattress (you can also use a pillow instead).
  • Fabric and zipper to sew a sheet. Or if you don't want or can't sew, you can just use a pillow case.

And I used some tools like screwdrivers and pliers, a knife, A sewing machine and a saw.

Step 3: Remove the Top

I first remove the top.

It depends on your suitcase, but in my case the hinges came loose pretty easy and I was able to pull them out.

You can also keep the top, but make sure it's secured in some way so I won't close when your cat is inside.

Step 4: Make the Mattress

I get the measurements from the suitcase and cut the mattress in the right size.
So it's fitting nicely into to the suitcase.

Step 5: Making the Bed Sheet

Next step is going to the sewing machine and make a nice little bed sheet.
I added a zipper so it will be easy to wash it later when the cat used his/her bed.

If you don't have a sewing machine you can also replace the mattress and sheet for a nice fitting pillow and case

Step 6: Attach the Legs

Get or create 4 legs. You can make them yourself or get them from an old stool or so.

If you're suitcase is not super stiff you can add some plywood to make the bottom a bit stronger.

Screw the legs to the suitcase (and plywood)

To give the legs a bit more of a 'vintage' touch I varnished them.

Step 7: Fit the Mattress

Not all left to do is for the mattress and look at your result.

Step 8: Let's See If the Cat Likes It..

That's it :-)

Thank you for checking out my Instructable!

Of course every suitcase is different, but I hope it this tutorial could inspire you to also make something nice for your pet.

Please also check out my youtube channel.