How to Make a Dog Mat

Dog mats are much like a dog bed --- the only difference is the size. A dog mat is soft but is not meant to be thick. They are commonly used for a dog to lay on instead of a hard cold floor. Some are even used to set food and water bowls on to contain any messes. You can make a dog mat from scrap fabric, pillow cases or old sheets. The mat can be completed in an hour and ready for your pet to enjoy.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • 2 pieces of fabric approximately the same size
  • Scissors
  • Fabric marker
  • ¾ inch polyfill batting
  • Fabric spray adhesive
  • Rubber rug stopper (or rubber shelf liner)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the approximate area that your dog takes up when laying down. This measurement does not need to be exact. Add 5 inches to this measurement to accommodate movement.

    • 2

      Mark the measurements onto a piece of fabric. Place the fabric over a second piece or fold it over if the fabric is large enough. Ensure that the fabric does not have any wrinkles in it. Cut the fabric at the marks.

    • 3

      Turn the fabric so the good side of each piece is facing each other. Pin the fabric together along the edges.

    • 4

      Sew the fabric together one inch away from three sides. Leave a space in the fourth side large enough for you to slide your hand between the two pieces.

    • 5

      Turn the fabric right side out.

    • 6

      Place the fabric on top of a sheet of ¾ inch polyfill batting. Trace the fabric onto the batting.

    • 7

      Cut the batting on the inside of the traced line.

    • 8

      Push the batting inside the two pieces of fabric. Work the batting around until it sits flat and even inside the fabric.

    • 9

      Sew the opening on the two pieces of fabric closed. This can be done by hand or by machine.

    • 10

      Sew a straight line 2 inches away from the edges of the mat, all the way around. Finish the line in the same space you started. Sewing this line around the edges will prevent the batting from bunching up inside the mat after the dog uses it or after washing it.

    • 11

      Place the mat onto of a piece of rubber rug stopper. Trace the mat onto the rug stopper.

    • 12

      Determine the side of the mat that will be used as the bottom. Turn it over so the bottom is facing up. Spray fabric adhesive over the entire surface. Press the rug stopper onto the mat. Ensure that you have lined it up perfectly before setting the rug stopper in place. The spray adhesive is strong and the rug stopper will not likely be removed once it touches the adhesive. The rug stopper will prevent the mat from sliding around on hard floors.

    • 13

      Turn the mat over and set in place where the dog can find it.

    • 14

      Call your dog to the mat and direct it to lay down.