Want to keep your dog's bed clean and looking new? A washable cover with a zipper is a lifesaver! Here's how to make your own.
Materials You'll Need:
- Fabric: Choose a durable, washable fabric like cotton, canvas, or microfiber.
- Zipper: Select a zipper that's long enough to go around the entire bed.
- Thread: Choose thread that matches your fabric.
- Sewing machine: This makes the process much easier.
- Scissors: For cutting fabric.
- Measuring tape: To get accurate measurements.
- Pins: To hold fabric pieces together.
- Iron: To press seams.
- Dog bed: To use as a template.
Instructions:
1. Measure Your Dog Bed
- Lay your dog bed flat on a surface.
- Measure the length, width, and height of the bed. Add extra inches for seam allowances (about 1/2 inch on each side).
2. Cut the Fabric
- Top and Bottom Panels: Cut two pieces of fabric to match the length and width of your dog bed, plus seam allowances.
- Sides: Cut two pieces of fabric to match the height of your dog bed and the width of the bed, plus seam allowances.
3. Attach the Zipper
- Place one side panel right-side up on a flat surface.
- Place the zipper face-down along the top edge of the fabric panel, with the zipper teeth facing the fabric.
- Pin the zipper in place, leaving about 1/4 inch of fabric beyond the zipper tape on each side.
- Stitch the zipper to the fabric, using a zipper foot on your sewing machine.
- Repeat steps 4-5 with the other side panel, attaching the zipper to the bottom edge of the panel.
4. Sew the Sides to the Top and Bottom Panels
- Place the top panel right-side up on a flat surface.
- Place one side panel right-side down, matching the raw edge of the side panel to the raw edge of the top panel, and aligning the zipper.
- Pin the panels together and sew along the side seam.
- Repeat with the other side panel, attaching it to the bottom panel.
5. Finish the Seam
- Turn the cover right-side out and press all seams flat.
- You can use a serger or a zig-zag stitch to finish the seams, preventing fraying.
6. Insert the Dog Bed
- Turn the cover inside out.
- Insert the dog bed into the cover, ensuring the zipper is aligned.
- Turn the cover right-side out and zip it up.
Tips
- Choose a fabric that is durable and easy to clean.
- Wash the fabric before sewing it. This will prevent shrinkage after the cover is made.
- Use a zipper foot on your sewing machine. This will help you stitch the zipper in place accurately.
- Iron the seams flat. This will give your dog bed cover a professional look.
- Make a few extra covers. This will give you options to wash and rotate them, keeping your dog bed looking fresh.