Teddy Talk: Creating, Collecting, Connecting

Hi Sue Anne, thanks for your reply. I'm wondering if it would work to make a smaller bear with the fox fur as it's a long dense fur.  I guess the only way to tell is to try it out. I've made a few prototype heads from calico and have a pattern that I think will work.

Hello friends, I have some fox fur that I plan to use for a teddy bear. What would be the recommended minimum size I should make. I usually only make tiny teddies, so I'm a bit daunted by the prospect of making a larger bear.  I have Nancy Tillberg's book, "Teddy Bears With a Past" and she recommends 22 inches (56cm) or more. Would I be able to make one that's a bit smaller, say 17 inches?
Thanks, Jan

Hello friends, has anyone heard of the button method for inserting eyes? The method was demonstrated in an online video series I paid for by Helen Gleeson of Bear Cub Designs. I’m wondering about the purpose of the method?

Hello friends, has anyone heard of the button method for inserting eyes? The method was demonstrated in an online video series I paid for by Helen Gleeson of Bear Cub Designs. I’m wondering about the purpose of the method?

Just gorgeous 

What a knowing look!

Oh yes! People say the most outrageous things to each other and I'm sure they would never say them to the person's face.  I've never been personally insulted but I'm an oldie, so maybe we oldies have a little more decorum and courtesy.

Love your work.

She's very cute.

Merry Christmas Maria!

Merry Christmas Jane!

Merry Christmas Claudia.

Merry Christmas Clare.  I hope those bears give you something nice.

Just love the mice!

Merry Christmas everyone and happy bear-making in 2011.  Thanks to my card-swap buddies who sent me such gorgeous cards.

Thanks everyone for your good wishes and encouragement.

I'm celebrating the end of my first year of bear-making and have had a wonderful time.  I have completed 6 bears with one under construction.  I know 6 isn't very many compared to full time artists  and some other hobbyists,  but I'm happy with my progress.  Maybe one day I can retire and spend more time on bear-making.  My bears are such a comfort! 

I did a weekend workshop with the wonderful Linda Benson and learnt how to do eyelids ( or actually conjunctiva to be more accurate), eye-whites, a nose moulded from a piece of fabric, an open mouth with tongue and sculpted leather paw pads. I'm beginning to feel I know something about bear-making now.

Not having done this before, please excuse a dumb question, but what kind of card should I send?

Wow!

So want to quite my job and make teddy bears full time!  Fabulous creations.

He is indeed wacky and most adorable and full of personality.

Love tht little coat.

Beautiful! :clap:

He's very cute.  Looks almost like a Koala.