How to Create a Canopy Arch for a Dog Bed

If you're planning a makeover for your posh pup's pad, there's no need to shell out hundreds for a designer dog bed. Some half-inch PVC piping can be assembled into a cube frame you can decorate with the fabric of your choice. PVC is lightweight, sturdy and easily cleaned. You can even paint it for a nicer look. Gluing the pieces together is optional, since the pipe pieces often fit into the elbows tightly enough.

Things You'll Need

Measuring tape
8 pieces 1/2-inch diameter 4-inch PVC 45-degree S x S x FPT sewer and drain elbows
1/2-inch PVC pipe
1/4-inch plastic tubing
Power drill
1/4-inch drill bit
Saw (coping or hacksaw) or PVC cutter
Utility blade
Rasp or sandpaper
Fabric
PVC cement (optional)

Instructions

Canopy
- 1
  
  The PVC elbows add length and width.
  
  Measure the dog bed. The lengths and widths of the canopy should be slightly larger, so the bed can fit inside.
- 2
  
  A canopy suspended from the ceiling is another choice.
  
  Cut the PVC pipe into 12 pieces based on your measurements. Four are the length of the top and bottom of the canopy frame, four are the width and four are the height in each corner. The height will be up to you.
- 3
  
  A vise can keep the pipe steady for drilling.
  
  Drill holes in the PVC at either end of the top of the pipe over which you want the arch.
- 4
  
  Start with large grit sandpaper; finish with small grit.
  
  Sand or file down any rough edges on the PVC.
- 5
  
  You can tie the canopy to the sides of the frame.
  
  Insert the ends of the tubing into the holes you drilled. Trim any excess tubing. The stiffer the tubing, the heavier the fabric it will hold.
- 6
  
  Spray paint works well on PVC.
  
  Apply the PVC cement as directed on the label, if using. Secure the pipe pieces into the elbows. When finished, you should have a freestanding cube with an arch in which to set the dog bed. Decorate as you like.