Creating a cozy and upscale sleeping space for your furry friend doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In fact, with a splash of creativity and a dash of do-it-yourself spirit, you can DIY a mid-century modern inspired dog bed that not only serves as a comfy retreat for your pet but also as a chic addition to your home decor. So explore the joy and comfort your four-legged companion will experience in a bed embedded with tennis balls for that added playful touch. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or new to the craft, this project is accessible and rewarding.
DIY Modern Dog Bed
Materials List
- Walnut Hardwood
- White Oak Hardwood
- ¾″ Plywood
- ½″ Plywood
- ⅜″ Dowels
Tool Kit
- Moisture Meter
- Dog Bed
- Yellow Marker
- Crosscut Sled
- 45-deg Chamfer Bit
- ¼″ Router Bit
- Router Guide Bearing
- ½″ Router Bit
- Epoxy
- Drilling Block
- Countersink
Step-by-Step Creation Process
Prepping the Lumber
Start this project by selecting premium walnut and white oak for the bed’s frame. Ensure the wood is acclimated to your workshop’s conditions using a moisture meter to minimize later movement. Trim the lumber to rough lengths, allowing an extra margin. Use your jointer and planer to achieve flat, parallel surfaces, then finalize sizing on your table saw, setting the stage with perfectly squared blanks.
Crafting the Bed Frame
The bed frame requires precision. Cut rabbets into the frame to fit cleats, employing a router table for accuracy, especially for the side panels’ stopped rabbets. Square any rounded corners with a chisel for a clean fit.
Shaping the Panels
Define the bed frame’s aesthetic by cutting an opening in the front panel and tapering the right panel for a seamless transition. Achieve this with careful sawing and jigsaw work, followed by sanding for smooth edges.
Tennis Ball Embedment
This unique feature sets the bed apart. Measure the tennis ball’s diameter and calculate the needed template size for the router. Slice the tennis balls in half and recess them into the wood, using a bit of math and precision routing. Secure with epoxy mixed with yellow pigment for a seamless appearance.
Bed Frame Assembly
Bring the frame together using Dominoes or alternative methods such as tape or band clamps for non-structural support. This step is about aligning and securing the panels into a cohesive frame.
Bottom Cleats and Legs
Measure and cut cleats from ¾″ plywood to fit the frame’s bottom. Create splayed legs for a modern appearance, ensuring the angles and lengths are consistent for stability. Attach the legs to the cleats with glue and reinforce with dowels.
Front Panel Grooves
Add character to the front panel by routing grooves. This final touch enhances the bed’s visual appeal, requiring steady hands and a careful approach to prevent wobbling.
Finishing Touches
After assembling the bed, it’s all about the finishing touches. Choose a finish that complements your home’s décor and apply it carefully to the wood, ensuring a durable and aesthetically pleasing result. Insert the chosen dog bed cushion, and watch as your pet explores and enjoys their new bed.
Remember, this modern dog bed isn’t just a place for your pup to rest. It’s a labor of love, a functional piece of art that reflects the care you have for your furry friend’s comfort and your home’s style.
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