Admit it! Buying manufactured dog beds these days may cost you a fortune no matter how fancy or eye-catching these products are.

The nice thing about it is that you just have to take your credit card, ATM card, or your hard-earned cash with you, then off you go to the nearest specialty shops that offer all sorts of dog beds. Also, you may just browse the Internet for websites that offer these products and have one delivered right at the comfort of your home. Very convenient, isn't it?

However, the downside is having a bed that is either too expensive or too awkward for your canine companion that you'll wish you never purchased one in the first place.

But still, you can actually arrive at a win-win solution here! If buying a dog bed is way out of your budget, then why not try making one instead? Read on the simple steps below on how to make a dog bed for your pet:

1. Have all the materials ready.

Of course, before you start making a dog bed for your pet, you have to buy all the necessary materials first. For this simple project, you have to purchase the following:

• Commercial grade foam. See to it that the foam is durable and comfortable enough for your dog.

• Fabric. Just like the foam, it should be a high-grade one, so you and your furry friend will be assured of its long-term use.

• Heavy-duty thread. It is best to choose an upholstery thread because of its sturdier quality. Remember to go for the thread color that will best complement that of the fabric. As such, never allow a visual nightmare by using a red thread on a violet fabric.

• Sewing machine. A sewing machine is important for the heavy-duty sewing that you will perform.

2. Choose a nice dog bed pattern.

After having the needed materials ready, pick a pattern that will suit your dog perfectly. You can choose from a variety of patterns, shapes, colors, and sizes: printed, striped, checkered, square, round, rectangle, dark, light, neutral, pastel, large, medium, and small.

The key here is to choose a dog bed pattern that complements your dog's personality as well as the surrounding. There are sewing and crocheting patterns available on the Internet that can help you carry out your project in a breeze. You may also opt to apply a little of your artistic creativity into the project by making your own design.

In addition, it will be a good idea if you'll solicit design ideas from your family members and friends. You may also opt to personalize your dog's bed by having its name embroidered or stitched into it.

3. Start creating your dog bed.

Of course, after preparing the materials and choosing a suitable pattern, it's time for you to begin your dog bed project. You may get family members involved in the project, particularly the kids, by asking them to perform simple tasks like handing in the stuffing materials for the dog bed. With family members and friends to help along, your dog bed project will surely be an enjoyable, fun, and meaningful activity.