DIY Reversible Open-Ended Snuggle Sack Tutorial: Fast & Easy Pet Bed!

Updated at: 23/03/2025

Spoil your furry friend with a cozy, custom-made snuggle sack – and do it quickly and easily! This tutorial guides you through creating a reversible, open-ended pet bed that's perfect for adapting to your pet's preferences and your home's décor. Forget expensive store-bought options; with just a few simple materials and a little bit of sewing know-how, you can whip up a luxurious sleeping spot your pet will adore in no time. The best part? It's completely reversible, allowing you to change the look and feel instantly.

This DIY project is perfect for beginners, requiring minimal sewing experience and readily available materials. The open-ended design makes it simple to get your pet comfortably inside, and the reversible feature allows for easy cleaning and a change of scenery. Ready to get started on creating the perfect pet haven? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and transform some fabric scraps into a cherished pet bed!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Fleece fabric (about 1/4 yard or more)
  • Boning (from Joann Fabrics, Amazon, etc.)
  • Pins
  • Clips
  • Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Pen/Pencil
  • Sewing Machine
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise your pet while they are using the snuggle sack. Remove any stuffing or loose threads that could be ingested.
  • Ensure the fabric you choose is durable and pet-safe. Avoid fabrics that easily snag or fray, and opt for materials that are washable and non-toxic.
  • Check the snuggle sack regularly for any signs of wear and tear and replace it if necessary to prevent injury to your pet.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cut Fabric Pieces

    • Cut out two pieces of your outer fabric (14 inches wide x 16 inches tall). Ensure the pattern direction is consistent across both pieces if your fabric has a directional print.
    • Cut out one piece of your inner fabric (same width as outer fabric – 14 inches wide - but 3 inches longer than the outer fabric – 19 inches tall).
    Cut out one piece of your inner fabric (same width as outer fabric – 14 inches wide - but 3 inches longer than the outer fabric – 19 inches tall).Cut out one piece of your inner fabric (same width as outer fabric – 14 inches wide - but 3 inches longer than the outer fabric – 19 inches tall).
    Cut Fabric Pieces

  2. Assemble Outer Fabric

    • Place one outer fabric piece on top of the other, aligning the bottom and sides. Pin/clip together.
    • Sew along three sides (bottom and two sides) of the outer fabric pieces with a 1/4 to 1/2 inch seam allowance. Leave the top edge open.
    Sew along three sides (bottom and two sides) of the outer fabric pieces with a 1/4 to 1/2 inch seam allowance. Leave the top edge open.Sew along three sides (bottom and two sides) of the outer fabric pieces with a 1/4 to 1/2 inch seam allowance. Leave the top edge open.
    Assemble Outer Fabric

  3. Prepare Outer Fabric

    • Round off the corners of the sewn fabric. Trim the top edges of the side seams slightly.
    • Turn the sewn outer fabric right-side out. Poke out the corners to make them sharp.
    Turn the sewn outer fabric right-side out. Poke out the corners to make them sharp.Turn the sewn outer fabric right-side out. Poke out the corners to make them sharp.
    Prepare Outer Fabric

  4. Assemble Inner and Outer Fabric

    • Place the inner fabric piece inside the outer fabric, with its right side facing out. Tuck the raw edges of the inner fabric under slightly and pin the inner fabric to the outer fabric.
    • Sew around the top edge of the outer and inner fabric pieces, leaving a small gap to insert boning.
    Sew around the top edge of the outer and inner fabric pieces, leaving a small gap to insert boning. Sew around the top edge of the outer and inner fabric pieces, leaving a small gap to insert boning.
    Assemble Inner and Outer Fabric

  5. Insert and Secure Boning

    • Insert the boning into the opening you left, feeding it all the way around the seam. Ensure the boning overlaps slightly at the end.
    • Stitch the opening closed, keeping the boning securely inside. You can add a second stitch line very close to the boning for extra security if desired.
    Stitch the opening closed, keeping the boning securely inside. You can add a second stitch line very close to the boning for extra security if desired.Stitch the opening closed, keeping the boning securely inside. You can add a second stitch line very close to the boning for extra security if desired.
    Insert and Secure Boning

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

Tips

  • Use a longer stitch length (5-6 inches) when sewing thick fleece layers.
  • If leaving the boning in the casing, trim and stitch the casing closed to prevent it from popping out.
  • Overlapping the boning at the end creates a more secure and finished look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Fabric Cutting

Reason: Inaccurate measurements or cutting lead to a lopsided or poorly fitting snuggle sack.
Solution: Double-check your measurements and use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter for precise cuts.

2. Insufficient Seam Allowance

Reason: Using too little seam allowance results in weak seams that can easily rip, especially with active pets.
Solution: Always add at least ½ inch seam allowance to ensure durable seams.

3. Improperly Secured Opening

Reason: A poorly finished opening can lead to stuffing escaping or the opening unraveling.
Solution: Use a strong stitch like a zig-zag or overlock stitch, and consider reinforcing the opening with bias tape or a contrasting fabric strip.

FAQs

What kind of fabric is best for a pet snuggle sack?
Durable, washable fabrics like cotton canvas, fleece, or even sturdy upholstery fabric work well. Avoid anything delicate or easily snagged by claws.
My pet is a chewer. Will this snuggle sack hold up?
While no fabric is completely chew-proof, using a durable fabric and reinforcing seams can help extend its lifespan. Supervise your pet with the new bed, especially initially, to assess their chewing habits.