Are your closets overflowing with old t-shirts you no longer wear? Is your furry friend desperately searching for a new high spot to survey their kingdom? Look no further!
Today, we’re combining creative recycling and our love for felines with this 100% upcycled cat hammock tutorial.
Forget about complicated and overpriced structures.
This project is the perfect example of "Zero Waste": it will cost you absolutely nothing, it gives a second life to your clothes, and it's a fantastic activity to do on a Wednesday afternoon with the kids.
Materials to Make a Cat Hammock
The beauty of this DIY is that you already have everything at home. To create this cat hammock, you will need:
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1 old cotton t-shirt: Choose one that’s a bit thick for comfort. A size M or L is ideal. Pick a color your cat likes (or that matches your decor!).
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1 sturdy metal hanger: Make sure it’s a slightly rigid wire hanger, not one that bends too easily.
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A pair of scissors.
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Your hands (and those of your little helpers!).
⚠️ Important note about the template: This tutorial cat hammock is suitable for small to medium-sized cats (European type). If you have a large feline, as suggested by the various purchases on the site for Maine Coon cat trees or giant Maine Coons, this DIY won't be sturdy enough. For them, opt for our reinforced XXL cat trees.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: A Piece of Cake
Ready? Grab your hangers! Here’s how to make a cat hammock without sewing.
Step 1: Prepare the Structure
Take your metal hanger. The goal is to reshape the triangle at the bottom to make it more square or rectangular, providing a wider sleeping surface.
Gently pull the bottom bar outward, and flatten the "shoulders" of the hanger. You should end up with a shape resembling a diamond or a kite. Tip for the kids: This is the "Hulk" step! Let them pull on the hanger (under supervision) to reshape it.
Step 2: Dressing the Hammock
This is the easiest part of this cat hammock tutorial. Slide your reshaped hanger inside the t-shirt, as if you were putting it away in your closet.
The hook of the hanger should stick out through the t-shirt's collar. Adjust the fabric so that the hanger lies flat inside and the fabric is slightly taut over the metal structure.
Step 3: Secure the Bottom (The No-Sew Method!)
The bottom of the t-shirt is open, and your cat might fall through. To close the bottom without a sewing machine, we will use the knot technique.
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Using the scissors, cut vertical fringes at the very bottom of the t-shirt, through both layers of fabric. The fringes should be about 5 to 7 cm long and 2 cm wide.
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Then, tie some knots! Take a fringe from the top and the corresponding fringe from the bottom, and tie them together tightly (make a double knot).
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Repeat the process all the way along. This is the kids' favorite step: they get to close the "sleeping bag" themselves.
Where to Place Your New Cat Hammock?
Your creation is ready! Now all that’s left is to find the perfect spot. Thanks to the hook on the hanger, this model is very versatile. Data shows that you love the idea of a window cat hammock, and that’s totally possible:
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On a window handle: This is the royal spot (if the handle is sturdy) for them to watch the birds.
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Under a chair or coffee table: To create a discreet hiding spot.
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On a rod or wall hook: Just make sure it’s securely attached.
Safety First
Before letting your kitty climb, always test the stability of your setup by pressing down on it with your hand.
Make sure the attachment point can support your pet's weight plus the impact of a possible jump.
Conclusion
And there you have it! You’ve successfully followed our cat hammock tutorial. In less time than it takes to say it, you’ve created a suspended, machine-washable bed (just remove the hanger) that’s completely free.
Your cat will love the familiar scent of your old t-shirt and the gentle sway of their new throne. Feel free to share your creations in the comments!
