DIY Cat Hammock: Easy PVC & Fabric Tutorial

Updated at: 10/05/2025

Spoil your feline friend with a cozy and stylish new resting spot – a DIY cat hammock! This project is surprisingly easy to complete, even for beginners, using readily available materials like PVC pipe and your choice of durable fabric. Forget expensive store-bought options; you can create a custom hammock perfectly tailored to your cat's size and your home's décor, all while saving money and enjoying the satisfaction of a handcrafted creation. Imagine your cat contentedly lounging in their new haven, basking in the sunshine or gazing out the window.

This tutorial will guide you through a straightforward process, using clear instructions and helpful images to ensure success. We'll cover everything from measuring and cutting the PVC pipes to sewing the fabric and assembling the final product. Get ready to unleash your inner DIY enthusiast and build a purr-fectly comfortable hammock for your beloved companion. Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • PVC pipe
  • PVC ratchet cutter
  • screw eyes
  • cup hook
  • drill
  • acetone
  • sewing machine or needle & thread
  • fabric (at least 3 pieces: front, back, fleece)
  • appliquè scissors
  • magnetic seam guide
  • wood chopstick
  • iron
  • leather circle punch
  • grommet setter
  • hammer
  • S hooks
  • double loop chain
  • 10-pound weight
Safety Guidelines
  • Ensure all PVC pipes are securely fastened and cannot easily detach. A cat falling from a poorly constructed hammock can be injured.
  • Use strong, durable fabric that can support your cat's weight. Avoid fabrics that could easily tear or fray.
  • Regularly inspect the hammock for any signs of wear and tear, especially the fabric and connections. Replace or repair any damaged parts immediately.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Planning & Material Preparation

    • Determine hammock size using pans to approximate a cat's sleeping dimensions.
    • Remove PVC branding using acetone.
    Remove PVC branding using acetone.Remove PVC branding using acetone.
    Planning & Material Preparation

  2. Constructing the PVC Frame

    • Cut PVC pipes according to measurements (provided in video). Use a PVC pipe ratchet cutter for safety and ease.
    • Attach screw eyes to each corner of the PVC frame using a drill and a cup hook for faster screwing.
    Attach screw eyes to each corner of the PVC frame using a drill and a cup hook for faster screwing.Attach screw eyes to each corner of the PVC frame using a drill and a cup hook for faster screwing.
    Constructing the PVC Frame

  3. Creating the Fabric Hammock

    • Sew the fabric hammock. Sew the front, back and fleece pieces together, leaving an opening to turn it right-side out. Trim corners and fleece to reduce bulk. Turn right-side out using a chopstick. Press and pin the opening. Then stitch the top opening closed.
    Sew the fabric hammock. Sew the front, back and fleece pieces together, leaving an opening to turn it right-side out. Trim corners and fleece to reduce bulk. Turn right-side out using a chopstick. Press and pin the opening. Then stitch the top opening closed.
    Creating the Fabric Hammock

  4. Adding Grommets

    • Create grommet holes using a leather circle punch and clean up with embroidery scissors.
    • Install grommets using a grommet setter and hammer.
    Install grommets using a grommet setter and hammer.Install grommets using a grommet setter and hammer.
    Adding Grommets

  5. Assembling the Hammock

    • Attach S hooks to the screw eyes and grommets. Attach double loop chain to each corner.
    Attach S hooks to the screw eyes and grommets. Attach double loop chain to each corner.
    Assembling the Hammock

  6. Testing the Hammock

    • Test the hammock's strength using a 10-pound weight.
    Test the hammock's strength using a 10-pound weight.
    Testing the Hammock

Read more: DIY Cuddly Cat & Dog Bed: A Super-Warm, Easy Tutorial

Tips

  • Use a cup hook in your drill to speed up screwing in screw eyes.
  • Use a sturdy surface (like a cutting board) when installing grommets.
  • Consider gluing the PVC pipes for added stability if needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven PVC Pipe Cutting

Reason: Inaccurate measurements or improper cutting techniques can lead to a wobbly or unstable hammock.
Solution: Use a measuring tape and a fine-toothed saw for precise cuts, ensuring all pipes are the same length.

2. Fabric Tension Issues

Reason: Too loose fabric will sag and be uncomfortable for the cat, while too tight fabric might tear or make the hammock difficult to assemble.
Solution: Pre-measure and cut the fabric carefully, ensuring appropriate tension during installation.

FAQs

What type of fabric is best for a cat hammock?
Durable, easy-to-clean fabrics are ideal. Canvas, sturdy cotton, or even outdoor fabrics are good choices. Avoid anything easily snagged or delicate, as cats can be rough on their sleeping spots.