DIY Upcycled Dog Bed Makeover: Gus's Cozy New Sleeping Space

Updated at: 28/05/2025

Gus, our beloved canine companion, deserved a comfy upgrade to his sleeping space, and what better way to achieve that than with a fun and budget-friendly DIY project? His old dog bed was looking a little worse for wear, the stuffing lumpy and the fabric faded. Instead of discarding it, we decided to embrace the upcycling spirit and transform it into a cozy haven fit for a king (or, in this case, a very good boy). This project is not only environmentally friendly, repurposing materials instead of sending them to landfills, but also a fantastic way to personalize your pet's belongings and inject some creativity into your home.

This exciting DIY dog bed makeover uses readily available materials and simple techniques, making it accessible to crafters of all levels. Forget expensive pet store purchases; we'll show you how to breathe new life into an old dog bed with minimal cost and maximum cuteness. Get ready to unleash your inner artist and embark on a step-by-step guide to create Gus's spectacular new slumber sanctuary.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Wooden dog bed (from Facebook Marketplace)
  • Jigsaw
  • Sandpaper
  • Filler
  • Paint (Rust-oleum matte furniture paint)
  • Paintbrushes
  • Decorators cork
  • PVA glue
  • Water
  • Sewing machine
  • Fabric scraps
  • Memory foam mattress (Pets at Home)
  • Cricut machine (optional)
  • Felt
  • Measuring tape
Safety Guidelines
  • Always check for and remove any sharp objects, staples, or loose threads from the upcycled materials before using them for your dog's bed. Sharp objects can injure your pet.
  • Ensure the chosen fabric and filling materials are safe for dogs. Avoid anything that could be toxic if ingested (e.g., certain foams, paints). Wash fabrics thoroughly before use.
  • Supervise your dog with the new bed, especially initially, to ensure they don't damage or ingest any part of it. A well-made, durable bed is ideal, but accidents can happen.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Existing Bed

    • Disassemble the existing wooden dog bed.
    • Measure and cut the base of the bed to reduce its depth using a jigsaw.
    • Reattach the sides of the bed to the modified base.
    Reattach the sides of the bed to the modified base.Reattach the sides of the bed to the modified base.
    Prepare the Existing Bed

  2. Surface Refinement

    • Sand down all surfaces of the bed to create a smooth finish.
    • Fill any cracks or screw holes using filler, and sand again for a smooth surface. Use decorators cork to seal gaps in the wood.
    • Prime the MDF edges with PVA glue and water to prevent paint absorption.
    Prime the MDF edges with PVA glue and water to prevent paint absorption.Prime the MDF edges with PVA glue and water to prevent paint absorption.Prime the MDF edges with PVA glue and water to prevent paint absorption.
    Surface Refinement

  3. Paint and Decorate

    • Paint the bed with two coats of Rust-oleum matte furniture paint.
    • Add a name to the bed using a Cricut machine (optional).
    Add a name to the bed using a Cricut machine (optional).Add a name to the bed using a Cricut machine (optional).
    Paint and Decorate

  4. Create New Cushions

    • Cut and sew cushions from existing fabric and stuffing.
    Cut and sew cushions from existing fabric and stuffing.
    Create New Cushions

  5. Final Assembly and Finishing Touches

    • Add felt squares to the bottom of the bed's feet to protect the floor.
    • Assemble the bed with the mattress and custom-made cushions.
    Assemble the bed with the mattress and custom-made cushions.Assemble the bed with the mattress and custom-made cushions.
    Final Assembly and Finishing Touches

Read more: DIY Vibrant Car Organizer: A Step-by-Step Quilting Tutorial

Tips

  • Consider using a pre-existing wooden dog bed to save time and resources.
  • Using a memory foam mattress provides orthopedic support for older dogs.
  • Choose neutral colors for easier cleaning and to hide dog hair.
  • Prime MDF edges with PVA glue and water before painting for a better finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using unsuitable fabric

Reason: Choosing fabrics that are too thin, rough, or easily snag can make the bed uncomfortable for your dog and prone to tearing.
Solution: Opt for durable, soft fabrics like canvas, denim, or old fleece blankets.

2. Improper filling and stuffing

Reason: Using insufficient or lumpy filling leads to an uneven, uncomfortable sleeping surface, potentially causing your dog discomfort or even injury.
Solution: Ensure even distribution of stuffing materials like old towels, blankets, or recycled fiberfill.

FAQs

What kind of fabric is best for a DIY dog bed cover?
Durable, washable fabrics are ideal. Consider canvas, denim, or heavy-duty cotton. Avoid anything delicate or easily torn, as your dog will likely be putting it through its paces!
Can I use old towels or blankets as stuffing for the dog bed?
Yes! Old towels, blankets, or even t-shirts can be great stuffing alternatives. Just make sure they are clean and cut into manageable pieces before stuffing the bed cover. Avoid using materials that could easily unravel or shed.