• Fold the quilt lengthwise in half or into thirds
• Try it out in the back of your vehicle or doghouse
• Make sure it is big enough for your dog to lie on!
• For a smaller dog, cut off some of the length
• Use the remainder as an extra layer or two
• Sew the edges together or use Velcro strips at least 3 inches (75mm) long at strategic points
• Note: Adhesive Velcro is easiest to apply, but it doesn’t always stick that well. You may need to secure them by adding a strong fabric glue or using the sew-on kind. (Trying to sew on the adhesive kind gums up your needle.)

PILLOWCASE FOAM BED

An old quilt or sleeping bag Foam pad or pieces of foam, large enough to accommodate your dog Straight pins Marking pen Needle and thread or sewing machine Velcro or zipper to match width of pillowcase (optional) ESTIMATED TIME One to two hours ESTIMATED COST Will depend on how many of the materials you can scrounge: Thread: About USD 0.30 Zipper: USD 0.00 if you can take one off an old couch cushion, sleeping bag or something you’re no longer wearing; otherwise up to USD 6.00 Velcro: Up to USD 4.00 INSTRUCTIONS

• Place the foam on the right side of your material about 1 1/4 inches (30mm) from the bottom edge and one side (per above)

• Fold the remaining material over the foam
• Mark the bottom and side seam with your marker or pins
• Leave the top end alone
• Cut off excess fabric. Leave a 1 1/4 inch (30mm) seam allowance
• Sew along the marked seams by hand or machine
• Turn your pillowcase inside out: the good side should face out
• Insert the foam
• If you have enough excess material at the top, you can simply fold it underneath the pad as we did in the photo at the top of this page or
• Add a zipper or Velcro for a fancier finish
• The Velcro can be applied in strips at least 3 inches (75mm) long or in one long piece
• Remember you may still need to sew the Velcro down or add extra glue, even if it is the adhesive kind