Knit a simple pet bed

When you start any knitting pattern you're supposed to knit tension squares to check your stitch tension is correct. This is a great way to use them up!

If you don't have any tension squares, you can simply knit 10cm squares in garter stitch from scratch - an ideal project for beginners.

You will need

• 10cm square, knitted tension squares, enough to cover one side of the pillow. The bed pictured uses 32 squares 
• an old felted wool jumper, for the bed back
• an old feather pillow
• two or three large press-stud fasteners (optional)

Make sure the yarn used is machine washable, and check that the stitch isn’t too loose or else your pet will catch their claws.

To make

Stitch the squares together in 8 rows of 4. Find out how to join knitted pieces here.

If you don’t have any tension squares you can just use up odds and ends of yarn to knit some. Cast on 24 stitches on 4mm needles. Knit 24 rows then cast off.

For the backing, take an old jumper which has felted in the washing machine. Cut a rectangle to the same size as the pillow plus 2cm all round.

Stitch the jumper backing to the knitted front by hand or by machine. Leave one end open like a pillowcase. Sew on the press-studs, if using.

If you need to make a larger pet bed just use two pillows and knit 64 squares. You may need to use a patchwork of jumpers or buy a piece of fleece.

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