Summer Dog Bed

One of the biggest drawbacks to having a hobby that is also my job (sewing, crafting) is that I rarely get to make things just for fun anymore. If I'm making something, it's usually to sell. But this summer, I've allowed myself to "goof off" a bit and have enjoyed making some things for me.

Well, not for ME per se, but at least not for sale. Last month, I made quilts for my sister and my mother-in-law for their birthdays. I had so much fun making them that I've gotten a bit stuck in the quilting mode.

I bought this dog bed for $3 almost a year ago. I love the soft sherpa cover, but it was decidedly too wintery and in need of a summer makeover.

Using this "charm pack" (a little package of 42 pre-cut 5" squares of assorted coordinating fabrics) and an old pure linen tablecloth, I spent this afternoon happily busy doing TWO things I enjoy--being creative AND spoiling Cabana.

Voila, a new summer dog bed cover! It's so light and cheerful to look at and probably much less hot for Cabana to lay on. Plus, like all good dog bed covers, it has a zipper so I can remove the stuffing for washing.

Best of all, since the linen tablecloth was re-purposed, and the fabric charm pack cost $5.40 (regularly $8.99, but I used a 40% off coupon at Beverly's), this dog bed, while almost twice the cost of the original $3 cover, was still quite a bargain.

Does Cabana love it? I don't know, she probably couldn't care less. BUT I love it! So I guess I was really just spoiling myself, which is okay. It's summer, I'm allowed to goof off!