Upcycling an Old Suitcase into a Pet Bed with Decoupage

Updated at: 15/05/2025

Give your old, forgotten suitcase a new lease on life and spoil your furry friend with a unique, handcrafted pet bed! Instead of letting that vintage suitcase gather dust in the attic, let's transform it into a cozy and stylish haven for your beloved pet. This project combines the charm of upcycling with the creative flair of decoupage, resulting in a one-of-a-kind pet bed that's as individual as your pet itself. Think bold patterns, vibrant colours, or perhaps a rustic, vintage aesthetic – the possibilities are truly endless!

This project is surprisingly simple and requires minimal tools and materials, making it perfect for both beginner crafters and experienced DIY enthusiasts alike. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the suitcase to applying the decoupage, ensuring you create a durable and comfortable bed your pet will adore. Ready to turn trash into treasure and create a truly unique pet bed? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Old Suitcase
  • Folk Art Visual Texture Paint (or Puffy Paint)
  • Chalk Paint
  • Glimmer Mist
  • Napkins
  • Decoupage Glue
  • Saran Wrap
  • Wax Paper
  • 3D Paint
  • Nail File
Safety Guidelines
  • Ensure the suitcase is thoroughly cleaned and free of any dust, dirt, or harmful chemicals before starting the upcycling process. This prevents potential health risks for your pet.
  • Use non-toxic paints, adhesives, and sealants specifically designed for use around pets. Avoid materials that could leach harmful substances or cause allergic reactions.
  • Make sure all sharp edges and hardware are properly secured or removed to prevent injury to your pet. Double-check for loose rivets or handles that your pet could chew on.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Suitcase Preparation

    • Clean the suitcase.
    • Paint the entire suitcase with chalk paint.
    • Apply glimmer mist.
    Apply glimmer mist.
    Suitcase Preparation

  2. Napkin Preparation and Decoupage Application

    • Prepare the napkins by separating the layers and removing the edges.
    • Apply decoupage glue to the suitcase.
    • Place the napkin onto the glued area, cover with saran wrap, and smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles.
    • Repeat step 6 to cover the entire visible surface of the suitcase.
    Repeat step 6 to cover the entire visible surface of the suitcase.
    Napkin Preparation and Decoupage Application

  3. Decoupage Drying and Refinement

    • Let the decoupage dry completely.
    • Touch up any areas with uneven glitter paint using chalk paint.
    Touch up any areas with uneven glitter paint using chalk paint.Touch up any areas with uneven glitter paint using chalk paint.
    Decoupage Drying and Refinement

  4. Adding 3D Elements

    • Practice with puffy paint on wax paper before applying it to the suitcase.
    • Apply puffy paint (or 3D paint) to create decorative elements.
    Apply puffy paint (or 3D paint) to create decorative elements.
    Adding 3D Elements

  5. Sealing and Finishing

    • Apply another layer of decoupage glue to seal the design.
    • Let it dry completely.
    • Use a nail file to smooth any rough edges.
    • Apply a top coat of decoupage glue.
    Apply a top coat of decoupage glue.Apply a top coat of decoupage glue.Apply a top coat of decoupage glue.Apply a top coat of decoupage glue.
    Sealing and Finishing

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

Tips

  • Practice with puffy paint on waxed paper beforehand.
  • Use a little bit of glimmer mist; it goes a long way.
  • Keep a cup of water handy when working with napkins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the wrong glue

Reason: Using a glue that's too strong can warp the suitcase material, while a glue that's too weak will result in decoupage paper peeling off.
Solution: Use a decoupage-specific glue or a diluted PVA glue for best adhesion and to prevent warping.

2. Applying too much decoupage medium

Reason: Excessive medium can lead to bubbling, wrinkling, and uneven drying, ruining the final look.
Solution: Apply thin, even coats of decoupage medium, allowing each coat to dry completely before adding the next.

3. Not properly preparing the suitcase surface

Reason: A dirty or unprepared surface can cause the decoupage paper to not adhere properly.
Solution: Clean the suitcase thoroughly, fill any significant holes or cracks with filler, and sand the surface smooth before starting the decoupage process.

FAQs

What type of suitcase is best for this project?
A sturdy, hard-shell suitcase in good condition is ideal. Avoid suitcases with significant damage or broken hinges. The size should be appropriate for your pet.
What kind of decoupage medium should I use?
Mod Podge is a popular and readily available choice. Ensure you select a medium suitable for the material of your suitcase (e.g., Mod Podge for paper and fabric).
How do I make sure the pet bed is comfortable for my pet?
Add a comfortable cushion or pet bed inside the suitcase. You can use an old blanket, a store-bought pet bed, or sew a custom cushion to fit the suitcase perfectly. Consider your pet's size and preferences when choosing the cushioning.