Pet-inspired crafting projects that will improve your companion's style

Pet-inspired crafting projects that will improve your companion's style

Summer is in full swing, which means that dog owners all over the country will begin to take advantage of the beautiful weather. Whether you're taking a trip to the beach or the dog park, there are a variety of pet products that your pooch can put to use throughout the season, but some of them could hit your budget pretty hard. Instead of spending your hard-earned cash at the pet store, consider one of the following pet crafting projects to show off your creative flair and give your canine something new to enjoy throughout the season.

1. A Happy Tails Handkerchief. There are few things cuter than seeing your dog with a bandana around his or her neck, so consider personalizing one. You can find a few dynamic iron-on designs with Tulip® Express Yourself!™ Iron-On Appliqués™, which can provide a few eye-catching patterns. When you have your layout set, finish with Scribbles® Dimensional Fabric Paint to give your handkerchief a boost of vibrant color.

2. Personalized water bowls. During this time of year, it's vital that your dog drinks enough water to stave off dehydration, so give him or her a dish that will make you proud. Start by heading to the pet store and picking up an inexpensive pet bowl and then bring it back and use crafting paints to illustrate a few designs, as well as your dog's name. When it's completed, consider putting a few ice cubes in your dog's dish to encourage your pooch to drink more throughout the day.

3. A pet bed cover. If you're handy with a needle and thread, one way to revamp the look of your canine's pet bed is with a homemade pet bed cover. Your furry companion will be bringing in plenty of grass clippings, dirt and sand from the outdoors, so having a cover that can be dropping in the washing machine will keep your home much cleaner throughout the summer. Best of all, your crafting project will give your home a colorful boost that can suit your decorative scheme.

Summer is one of the most enjoyable times of the year to be a pet parent, so if you're looking for a way to improve your dog's quality of life, trying out one of these engaging craft projects could be a great activity for a sweltering day.