How to make a travel pet bed out of a picnic basket

Introduction

This portable pet carrier is easy to make and doesn't cost much in materials. The mesh top is removable, so the basket can be used on the go or at home as a pet bed.

Step 1

Make a waterproof basket liner

Fold a plastic tablecloth in half and place it on your workstation. Place the basket upside down on the tablecloth and use a pen to mark the size of the basket on the tablecloth. Cut the tablecloth (double-sided) at least 3 inches larger than the mark to allow for sewing and stuffing. Sew the two pieces together almost all the way; Leave an opening to add the filling. Then sew that last piece together.

Step 2

Stuff Liner

Add remnants of bedding or padding to the waterproof liner. Sew closed. Add a pillowcase or pillowcase to make it more comfortable.

Step 3

Decorate the basket

We chose to hot glue wooden letters to the side of the basket to spell out the dog's name. You can paint the basket or decorate with ribbon, or leave it as is.

Stage 4

Make mesh cover

Cut a piece of screen material large enough to go over the handles of the basket and halfway up the sides of the basket. Cut the corners of the basket shape. Sew a seam around the material just large enough to allow the elastic to slide through. Leave a small section open to stretch the elastic directly with a safety pin.

Step 5

Assemble the mesh cover

Make sure the cover fits snugly over the basket, then sew the ends of the elastic together and sew the rest of the seam.

Step 6

Susan Teare, Susan Teare

Present the basket to its new owner

When not in use, the removable mesh cover can be tucked into the basket under the pillow.