Dog bed

A simple alternative to gigantic, puffy dog beds.  This one is super-light, can easily be folded or rolled up, and has a machine washable zip-off cover.

How to:

(1) Buy a piece of foam rubber in a size appropriate to your dog friend.  Fabric stores sell foam rubber in a variety of thicknesses and will custom cut it for you so you only pay for the exact amount you need.  

(2) Choose a cotton fabric for the cover.  Consider choosing a fabric that is easy to wash and will cover dirt and stains.  I used Giant Octopi from the Mendocino line by Heather Ross.  (This project works better with a sturdier fabric, but I really liked the octopi.)

(3)  Cut 2 rectangles (for top and bottom of bed), 2 short strips (for short sides of bed), and 2 long strips (for long sides of bed).  Each piece should be 1" wider and 1" longer than the corresponding part of the foam.

(4)  Assemble pieces into a box shape, installing a parka zipper along one of the long seams.

(5)  Insert foam into cover, and zip up.

(6)  Add dog.