Ok, so maybe that's a bit unfair but still. There are folks out there that think the only thing you can cover cat furniture with is shag carpet.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
Though if you cover your cat tree with carpet it will last a LONG time because it is very durable.
And what you can do with it is incredibly versatile, as you can see from the cool pattern in this cat three here. It is hardly the only covering you can or even should use when you build a cat tree for yourself.
The list of materials you can cover a cat tree with is as limitless as your imagination. Some things that spring to mind are…
- Denim
- Old quilts or
- Blankets
- Sweaters
- Sweatshirts and pants
- Fabric from your stash
- Cotton duck
- Burlap
- Sisal, wrap the whole thing?
- Upholstery fabric
- Drapes or curtains
Hardly an exhaustive list but you get the idea. Start thinking outside the "carpet box" and the sky is the limit.
Some alternatives to carpet will cost more than others. Some may be downright pricey. And others will let you feel good about upcycling too! It just depends on your wants, needs and budget.
If you are building a cat tree, don't like carpet and price is no issue. Head over to your local fabric store and look for sturdy fabrics like cotton duck and upholstery fabrics. Some batting underneath would make for a softer surface and better purchase for claws.
PRO TIP... Don't Recreate The Wheel!
Want to build your own dazzling pet furniture but are sick of so-called "plans" you find online that leave out essential bits because they "assume" you already know how to do? We have just what you need (including 150 woodworking lessons that'll have folks thinking you have Woodworking Super Powers! Check out this short video... RIGHT HERE!
Want to build your own dazzling pet furniture but are sick of so-called "plans" you find online that leave out essential bits because they "assume" you already know how to do? We have just what you need (including 150 woodworking lessons that'll have folks thinking you have Woodworking Super Powers! Check out this short video... RIGHT HERE!
Your local thrift store or Good Will may have just what you need to cover your cat tree. Garage sales and flea markets are also a good place to source cat tree materials.
At these kinds of places look for cheap jeans, old blankets or quilts. Drapes can work wonders on a cat tree if they are still in decent shape because a thread bare spot or some sun damage won't matter to the cats. Also, you'll be cutting them up so you can just cut out the bad spots.
Don't give up if you don't find what you are looking for on your first trip or the first shop you walk into. As in most areas of life, persistence pays off. Building your own cat tree is no different.
Just be sure to keep an open mind no matter where you shop or at what price point you are looking. You just may be surprised when the PuRFECT material for your cat furniture literally leaps out at you and screams "Here I Am!"
What do you think? Are you going to cover your cat tree with carpet or something else? Did I miss some amazing covering material? Let us know in the comments. Thanks.
