Your cat deserves a cozy spot to curl up, and creating a homemade cat bed is easier than you might think. Making your bed for cats is not only money saving but also allows you to customize the perfect sleeping space for your furry friend. There's a special satisfaction in seeing your cat enjoy something you made yourself.

A DIY project takes just a few hours and requires basic materials you might already have at home. Whether your cat loves round, rectangular or circular nests, you can make the design to match their sleeping pattern and your home decor. In this guide you will know everything about how to make a cat bed.

Materials You'll Need

Before starting your cat bedding project, gather these essential supplies:

Fabric and Filling:

• 1-2 yards of soft, washable fabric (fleece, cotton, or canvas work well)

• Polyester fiberfill stuffing or old pillows for filling

• Thread that matches your fabric

Tools:

• Sewing machine (or needle for hand-sewing)

• Fabric scissors

• Measuring tape

• Pins

• Safety pins

Optional Extras:

• Non-slip fabric for the bottom

• Removable pillow insert

• Decorative trim or ribbon

You should choose materials that are made of machine washable fabrics. Because your pet’s bed will need to be cleaned regularly. Avoid materials with loose weaves that might snag your cat's claws.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Design and Measure

Bed size selection depends on the sleeping habits of your cat. Most cats would like an 18-24-inch diameter bed in circular designs or one measuring 20x16 inches for rectangular styles. Add two inches per measurement for the seam allowance.

Cut two top and bottom pieces of the same size. For raised walls, cut a long strip about 6 to 8 inches wide: long enough to go around the perimeter plus 2 inches for the overlap.

Step 2: Construct the Base

Place the two main pieces together with their right sides facing, then pin along the edges. Be sure to leave a 6-8 inch opening so you can turn and stuff it later. Sew all the way around the perimeter with a ½ inch seam allowance, reinforcing the beginning and end of your stitching.

Turn the base right side out through the opening and pop out the corners or curves for a nice smooth shape. 

Step 3: Fill It Up

Stuff the base firmly but without being too tight: kneading and adjusting should be an exercise performed by your cat. Fill evenly, especially focusing on the corners or curved areas. 

Hand-stitch the opening closed with small, tight stitches that will blend with the existing seam line.

Step 4: Attach the Sides (Optional)

If you're adding raised edges, fold the long strip in half lengthwise and stuff it lightly. Sew the ends together to create a circle, then pin it around the perimeter of your base.

Stitch the sides to the base, making sure your needle goes through both the top and bottom layers to keep it secure. This creates a bolster-style bed that many cats love for feeling secure.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Trim any loose threads and give your cat bed a final inspection. If desired, add a non-slip bottom by hand-sewing pieces of rubber shelf liner to the base corners.

Customization Options

Make your bed of cat truly special with these personalization ideas:Here are some personalization ideas to make your bed of cat truly special:

Variations in Size: Smaller versions are made for kittens or one big bed for multiple cats. Measure whatever fits your cat during its sleeping hours. Preferred dimensions are based on the measurements.

Options of Fabrics: Use fleece for extra warmth during winter months or cotton to breathe in warmer climates. You can also use a fleece cat blanket for making a soft touch on it. Waterproof fabrics do wonders for senior cats and cats that sometimes wet their bed. 

Funny Shapes: You could go with ovals, squares, or even heart shapes. Some cats like higher sides in their bed for security, while others prefer a flat mat to stretch out. You can place the bed of cats in a card board or paper box for creating elevated sides.

Removable Covers: Make a zippered cover that slips over a simple pillow insert. It will make washing so much easier, and it will also increase the bed's lifespan.

Aromatherapy: Slip a small pouch of dried catnip or lavender between the fabric layers (make sure that it is sewn so that your cat can't get directly to it.

The Opportunity of Becoming Your Cat's Most Favorite Place 

The creation of one DIY cat bed has a two-fold function in that it marries function with play, thus creating a specially made comfort zone with which a cat will cherish. This simple project is a testament to the fact that just loving your pet does not entail buying the expensive ones-the most valuable gifts are sometimes the ones that come off the hands.

The best part about DIY cat beddings is their adaptability. As your cat's preferences change or the bed shows wear, you can easily create updated versions using different fabrics, sizes, or styles. Start with this basic design, and don't be surprised if you find yourself crafting a bed for cats for every room in the house. If you think it’s difficult, boring or you are a busy person and looking for a cheaper option, you can get cat beddings from Catspo for under $20.