How do you sew a carrier for rats? - briefly
Cut breathable fabric into a rectangular panel, fold the long edges inward and stitch a reinforced seam, attach a zip or Velcro closure at the opening, and secure a sturdy handle for transport.
How do you sew a carrier for rats? - in detail
To construct a safe, comfortable transport bag for small rodents, gather the following supplies: durable cotton or canvas fabric (approximately 0.5 mm thickness), a matching lining of soft fleece, a 2‑inch wide zipper, two pieces of 1‑inch elastic band, a pair of metal D‑rings, heavy‑weight thread, a sewing machine capable of handling thick material, and a sharp fabric scissors.
Begin by measuring the animal. A typical adult rat requires a carrier interior of 10 cm wide, 15 cm long, and 12 cm high. Add 2 cm to each dimension for seam allowances, then cut two rectangular panels for the body (front and back) and two smaller squares for the floor and lid.
- Cut the outer fabric and lining according to the dimensions above.
- Place the outer panels right sides together; sew the side seams, leaving a 12‑cm opening at the bottom for the floor panel.
- Insert the floor panel, right sides together with the bottom edge of the body, and stitch around the perimeter, reinforcing the corners with a triple stitch.
- Attach the lining in the same manner, ensuring the right sides face each other; stitch around the outer edges, leaving a 5‑cm gap for turning.
- Turn the carrier right side out through the gap, then close the opening with a neat hand‑stitched slip stitch.
- Sew the zipper along the top edge of the carrier, aligning it with the lid opening.
- Fold the lid panel inward, stitch a hem, and attach the elastic band on the interior edge to create a snug closure.
- Secure the D‑rings to the carrier’s sides, positioned 2 cm from the bottom, using reinforced stitching; these serve as handles for lifting.
After assembly, inspect all seams for gaps, test the zipper operation, and verify that the elastic returns to its original shape. The carrier should be lightweight, breathable, and free of loose threads that could pose a hazard. Use the D‑rings to attach a leash or carrier strap when transporting the animal.