How to Make a Dog-Feeding Station From a Toy Box

Create a functional feeding station from a kids’ old toy box.
Repurposing Unused Kids Toy Chest

Upcycling Old Toy Chest

Before you throw out that unused toy chest give Fido a chance to put it to good use as a dog food bowl and water bench. Add a little charming decor and Fido will surely feel the love once more!

Materials Needed:

  • small toy box
  • fabric
  • wooden or metal letters
  • metal bowls
  • scissors
  • tape measure
  • jigsaw
  • pencil or marker
  • wall-covering paste
  • spray adhesive
  • spray paint
  • spray paint handle
  • heavy-duty glue for wooden or metal surfaces
  • painter’s tape
  • drop cloth

Start With an Old Toy Box

You can find one at garage sales and flea markets.

IMG_5830Before

Trace Circles for Bowls

Remove lid of toy feeder. Place metal bowls upside down, then trace their shapes directly onto box surface with pen or pencil.

step_1_TraceCircles

Cut Out Holes for Bowls

Using traced circle as guide, cut a hole in the toy box lid using jigsaw.

step_2_CutOutHolesWithJigsaw

Update With Spray Paint

In an open, well-ventilated area, cover work surface with drop cloth, add spray paint handle to can of spray paint, then add sprayed finish to any trim or molding on box, as well as any wooden or metal letters which will be added to the front. TIP: Painting trim, molding or letters a corresponding or contrasting color to whatever material is used on the exterior will add a graphic, tailored look.

step_3_SpraypaintLetters

Update Exterior With Fabric

For a lid and side panel update using fabric, measure each panel with tape measure to determine proper dimensions. Next, coat the exterior surface of lid and side panels with spray adhesive, cut fabric to size, then attach piece by piece, removing any air bubbles with wallpaper smoothing tool.

Add Letters

Add heavy-duty glue for wooden or metal surfaces to the back of decorative letters, then press in place directly to the newly re-covered exterior surface of the lid and side panels. TIP: To ensure proper fit, consider holding letters in place with painter’s tape for several hours after each letter is put in place.

Store Items Inside

Fill the bottom of the interior with toys and pet supplies. Then place metal bowls into holes in lid.

step_6_IMG_5832_InteriorStorage

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