DIY- VIntage Suitcase Dog Bed

 In continuing with my theme of thrifting, I created this unusual DIY, but it's one that my dog loves. My awesome friend gave me this suitcase that she bought from the thrift store. She purchased this for a $1. 00. With this suitcase and some other materials I was able to create a unique dog bed for my sweet girl, Elle. This bed can be made for any size dog, you just need to find a larger suitcase.

Materials need for this project are a suitcase, hammer, pliers, screw driver, fur and cotton material,  poly fill, tape measure, hot glue gun and sticks, scissors, sewing machine, thread, acrylic paint, 4 wooden spheres for feet, pencil  and a foam brush. 

Step1: Separate the top and the bottom parts of the suitcase with a screw driver and hammer.  I also used my pliers to pull out any extra screws.

This is what my suitcase looked like when separated. I then wiped down the inside and let it dry overnight.  I made two beds from one suitcase. The bottom was used for the bed for my dog and the top part of the suitcase for a bed for my friend's dog. 

Step 2: Next, you will work on the bed/pillow. I bought enough material for the length and the width of my suitcase. My material was $4.00. I cut it into two equal pieces. Then, I faced the material pieces together,  with the material I want to see inside. (If you do not want to complete this step due to the sewing, you could purchase a pillow, instead)

Step 3: You will need to sew three sides completely. The fourth side you will leave an opening to fill.

Step 4: Fill with the poly fill. This was only $2.99. I had enough to make two beds.

Step 5: Fold over the edges and sew opening closed. 

Step 6: Cut you fur material  while leaving enough so that it can hang over the sides of your suitcase. This was material from a vintage fur coat, also thrifted. Fur material also can be found at your local craft store.

Step 7: Glue the fur into the grove of the suitcase.  I used fur also to cover the back metal screws that were holding the suitcase together. 

Step 8: Paint the sphere shape legs for the bottom of the suitcase. These can be found at your local craft store in the wood aisle. They come in packs of four and are $2.00.  I painted mine black with white polka - dots.

Step 9: Using a tape measure, measure from the edge and make four marks to place the feet. You will need to hot glue  them into position. 

Finished product turned out great. I love this bed, because it combines my love of vintage with a flare of modern. It seems like there are quite a few steps, but this really can be done in less than one hour if all the materials are ready.  I would love to hear what you think and don't forget about my giveaway.