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Bear Paws by RoxanneDoes anyone have any suggestions on where to place the joints for a standing bear?
Should it be low or up a bit higher on the body?
Closer to the tummy or closer to it's behind?
I do know that I want it to be a smaller size, like around 10-12 inches tall with shorter chubby legs. Thanks!
Sorry if this is a dumb question... but do you mean standing on all 4's or regular bear that is free standing?
Bear Paws by RoxanneHey Miss Laura Lynn,
I want it to be free-standing..
Goldelocs Bears
Hi Roxanne,
I find that most of my bears are free-standing. Their joints are placed low in the body towards the centre and to need be quite firm so they can hold their position, the legs will also need to be reasonably short to support the weight.
Ann-Marie
Hi Roxanne,
I make quite a lot of short legged free standing bears, usually around 15 inches, I make a very short chunky leg with quite a big thigh??? if you know what I mean, where the hardboard joint goes...I place it a little higher and in the centre. I also put glass beads in the footpads to weigh them down and it makes a flat platform for them so they don't roll over. Make the joint very firm..
desertmountainbearI agree, the majority of my bears stand, I also use large thighs, and large joints in the legs to go with it. They are placed low, and for me I always place my legs closer to the back, that is because I like a belly, I don't think it affects the standing. They do seem to stand better for me if the joints are low. One more thing, I always wire the legs, it seems to help getting the feet into a nice position for standing.
Joanne
Bear Paws by RoxanneExcellent! Thank you friends 
Just the advice I was needing... :hug:
Most of my bears are also free standing. I use bolts and locknuts for the joints. They are tight but not too tight so they are easy to pose. The leg joint is in the middle between front and back. As for where it's set from the bottom -- I have that positioned so he'll sit nicely.
I also use glass beads in the feet to aid in standing. I don't use cardboard though. Just my preference. I am careful when I am stuffing the tummy. I usually add beads or ss shot to the tummy too and I do a test on the positioning of that to be sure it doesn't cause my bear to go forward or back when standing.
