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artistGALLERY Anke Komorowski Pudding - 10 inch bear Germany OOAK bears made by Kelly Louise Barfoot Phone 00492368/53201. www.bearsonalities.com Commissions welcome www.etsy.com/shop/Bearsonalities [email protected]/pages/Bearsonalities/250219475031650 www.keli-b-bears.com DIMITRI by Laurent BERGMANN 2014 Toby industry’s choice winner (large undressed bear) NTBAA photographic competition winner (large undressed bear) http://www.lovablebears.fr

artist profile Anke Komorowski was first introduced to handmade teddyA change bears through her neighbourof heart in the year 2000. Her response was, “Very nice, but not for me.” It seems,One talented bear maker has learned however, that she spoke too soon.never to dismiss something unlessyou’ve given it a try “Of course, you know that you should never use such a sentence near handmade By Carrie Brooks teddy bears,” she said. “A very short time later, I fell in love with a teddy in a teddy52 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m bear magazine and I found my first expe- rience of bear making through a teddy bear club in my hometown.” Living in the small town of Oer- Erkenschwick in Germany with her hus- band and two children, Anke runs her teddy bear business, Bearsonalities, from her own home. “I had a small working space in our living room for some years, but when my oldest daughter moved to another town to study at the university in 2012, I took over her room as my working room,” said Anke. “I really enjoy having all of my things in one place.” Besides being a bear maker, she is a full-time childcare worker and remedial teacher, a group leader for The Prague Programme for Parents and Children (PEKIP), and she works for the youth office on a project that helps families with young children. Bears continue to be an important part of Anke’s life despite her busy schedule. In fact, her busy schedule gives her the inspiration and motivation to make more bears. “Working with little children for more than 20 years now, I can say they give me lots of inspiration,” she noted.

artist profile “Sometimes, I can see a special child inone of my bears and my bears are like littlechildren too—with big eyes, sometimes abit curious, sometimes cheeky, sometimesmerry, sometimes kind and honest - andsometimes a bit grumpy or sad too.” Like the children who are the inspira-tions for Anke’s work, no two bears arethe same. “I’m proud of my talent fortrying out new techniques and styles. Mybears are very different. I make moderncontemporary bears as well as traditional bears, in almost all sizes.” While she is always checking out new techniques of bear making, Anke often makes her bears with open mouths. This only adds to the enjoyment of creating a bear’s head—Anke’s favourite part of creating teddy bears. “I love to make the head most because that’s the part when a bear comes to life and develops his special personality.” Such variety of bears and techniques used requires a very flexible process in the making of a bear. “I start making a pat- tern and searching for the right mohair for it,” Anke told us. “And sometimes I do it the other way around—I have a piece of mohair or several pieces of fitting mohair and faux fur, and I start making a pattern for the bear I think it could be.” Anke makes the head of the bear first. t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 53

artist profile doctor. “I am inextricably linked to teddy bear making now,” she says happily. Although it took a while for Anke to fall in love with teddy bears, it is now plain to see that she has fallen in love with mak- ing bears and everything that comes with it. She hopes to attend more bear shows in the upcoming year and to write some of her patterns in English so she can offer her kits and patterns worldwide. Anke’s plans only include moving forward with all of her teddy-related endeavors. Other than that, she says “I’m very happy with my life and I hope I can continue on like this in the future.” TBT •www.bearsonalities.com“I can change the pattern if the head tellsme that it needs a different body thanplanned,” she said. After the head is made,Anke machine sews most of the body partsand hand sews some pieces of the headand paw pads. Most of her bears are filledwith polyester filling and stainless steelpellets. To finish a bear, Anke adds some air-brushed accents to intensify his personal-ity. When the creative process is all done,Anke then photographs the bear, updatesher newsletter and adds the bear to herwebsite and online shops. “Every bear getshis own personal certificate with his per-sonal data too,” she added. In addition to making bears for herbear business, Anke also visits bear fairsand has competed in several bear com-petitions in the past. She has expandedher small business to include airbrushingteddy bear t-shirts, hand-dying and sellingcolorful mohair, and working as a teddy54 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

PROJECTdon’t put all yourEGGS IN ONE BASKET! These little crocheted baskets are perfect for small bears looking forward to a big egg hunt this Easter By Jill MundyYellow basket sp. - space 4. Ch. 2, dc in same ch. sp., YOU’LLneed dc - double crochet (single ch.1, (2 x dc in next ch. sp.,YOU’LLneed crochet US) ch.1) in each ch. sp.; Join with ■ DK (light worsted) tc - treble crochet (double sl. st. cotton yarn in yellow ■ DK yarn crochet US) 5. Ch. 2, (dc. Ch.1) in each ch. ■ 4.00mm crochet hook sp.; Join with sl. st. ■ DK (light worsted) 1. Make a loop on hook and 6. Ch 2, dc in to each ch. sp.; cotton yarn in green (US size 6) work 4 ch. join in to ring with Join with sl. st. (The edge will Note: yarn is used sl. st. curl up slightly to naturally start together throughoutAbbreviations: 2. Ch. 2, (1dc, 1ch) six times in the sides of your basket)DK - double knitting (light centre of ring. Join to top of first 7. Ch. 2, (dc. ch.1) into each ch. ■ 6.00mm crochet hookworsted) 2 ch. with sl. st. sp.; Join with sl. st. (US size 10)ch. - chain 3. Ch. 2, (dc in next ch. sp; 8. Ch. 4, miss next ch. sp andst. - stitch ch.1) in to each ch. sp. Join to join to following ch. sp. with sl. to form a ringsl. st. - slip stitch top of first 2 chain with sl. st. st.; Ch.1; dc in each of next 7 2. Ch. 3, work 8 tc in to centre ch. sp.; ch. 4, miss next ch. sp. of ring; join with sl. st. and join to following ch. sp. with 3. Ch. 4, work 2 tc in to each sl. st.; ch.1; work 1dc in to each ch. sp.; join to 3rd ch of first 4 of next 7 ch. sp.; Join with sl. st. with sl. st. 9. Work 7 dc over the 4 chain to 4. Ch. 2, work 1dc, 1ch in to make handle; sl. st. In to next ch. each ch. sp.; join with sl. st. sp.; dc in to each of next 6 ch. 5. Ch. 2, work 2 dc in to each sp.; work 7 st. Over the 4 chain ch. sp.; join with sl. st. to make handle; sl. st. in to next 6. Cut thread and pull through ch. sp.; dc in to each of next 5 loop to fasten off. ch. sp.; sl. st. in to next 7. Sew or weave in loose ends ch. sp. and your basket is finished. TBT 10. Cut thread and pull through loop to fasten off. 11. Sew or weave in loose ends and flat- ten base to shape. Yellow/ green basket 1. Make a loop on hook and work 6 ch.; join with sl. st. t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 55

winnersTOBY Awards ful reclaimed vintage mink. Po has blackline up English glass eyes with Panda patches and white accents. A hand sculpted clay noseThe announcement of the TOBY Award (sewn in for strength) and matching suedewinners always causes great excitement. paw pads. Po has been gently filled withFind out who got the votes in 2014 Majestic Merino Wool Noil and Poly-fill blend, and a little steel shot for a healthy By Amanda Long hug. Po has been extensively scissor sculpted. His cheeks taking many hoursSince 1986, the TOBY Awards to create. have been a highlight of the teddy Frappe - Frappe has been a special crea- bear calendar. Sponsored by U.S. tion inspired by the ‘smallest mink bear I magazine Teddy Bear & Friends, can make’ challenge I set myself. Turningthe awards aim to encourage and reward the tiny pieces took great care as theyexcellence in the conception, design and appeared to already be stuffed, (with fur).execution of teddy bears and soft-sculptureanimals. Frappe is five way jointed, measuring Entrants submit photographs of theircreations which are then evaluated by apanel of judges. There are thirteen cat-egories and the the highest-scoring crea-tions in each become the nominees for theTOBY Awards. The readers of TeddyBear & Friends then vote for their favour-ite nominee in each category to determinethe overall winners. The 2014 winners were announced January 18 at the Crossroads Doll & Teddy Bear Show in San Diego. Chosen from more than 200 entries, they will go on to become the nominees for this year’s Public’s Choice Awards, also voted on by Teddy Bear & Friends readers and announced later in the year. Here are a selection of bear artists and their winning creations. Bare Cub Designs All Bare Cub Designs are created by hand to be loved by the heart. Po the Panda - Po is a panda style mink cub, five way disc jointed, just five inches, Po has been created from beauti-56 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

winnersin at just three inches! Frappe has been recognised the breed!! She is made from bear making techniques along with newcreated from beautiful reclaimed vintage luxury faux fur in ivory which I hand ideas including needle felting, needle/scis-mink. Frappe has black English glass shaded; she has a locline spine with wired sor sculpting, Fimo sculpting and handeyes and a hand sculpted clay nose (sewn limbs, a needle felted nose and leather ear painting. TBTin for strength) and matching suede paw linings.pads. Frappe has been gently filled withMajestic Merino Wool Noil and Poly-fill I thoroughly enjoyed making her andblend, and a little steel shot for a healthy plan more feline projects in the future!hug. Frappe has been extensively scissorsculpted. His cheeks taking many hours Laurent Bergmannto create. Laurent is an enthusiastic needlewomanNotchlok and enjoys patchwork as well as making The dictionary describes a Shaman as bears.someone who is able to contact good and Her winning entry Dimitri (largeevil spirits (doctor or healer).  undressed bears category) was also a win- ner in the 2014 NTBAA photographic The Native Americans love and honour competition. the bear. He symbolises strength, good-ness and love of family. He is considered a Katie Rae Bearsgood spirit. My Shaman is 18” tall, made I am thrilled to be able to showcase myof recycled fox fur, has German glass eyes,ultra-suede paws and a waxed embroi- three winning entries. Meet Theo, Alicedered nose. Feathers adorn his head and and ‘I think there’s a monster under myhe is wearing a necklace of turquoise, fired bed’. My bears are made using traditionalagates and a clay amulet. He also carries ahand-made spear.Three O’clock Bears I made Molly Rose as a special requestfrom a lovely long time customer of minewho has a Birman cat named Molly Rose. She sent me photos of her and I basedmy design on a Birman but there areaspects of a Ragdoll cat incorporated as Ihave a pretty Lynx Point Ragdoll namedFae who was a great model!! But MollyRose turned out to be a hit as not onlydid her new mum love her but on myFacebook page, Birman owners instantly t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 57

shop profileBear With MeIt’s always good to hear there is a new bearshop in town, especially when the owner isalso a bear artist, bringing all her experienceto the benefit of her customers By Jill MundyIf you go down to Kettering today, called ‘Art in the Heart’ in Peterborough, shop back to life and gave something spe- be sure to wander along the newly where my bears were sold. I wanted very cial back to the town that people are fall- pedestrianised area that leads to the much to recreate something similar with ing in love with already. My shop is spe- banks and eating quarter. Along the bears at its heart.” cial because I actively welcome local bearway you will be compelled to visit a new artists and art of all mediums, as long asbear shop with lots of little paws enticing The name Bear With Me was also it is bear related. We have jewellery, paint-you inside. inspired by other people. “Using social ings, honey, textiles, a bear orphanage and media networks, I had help from the bear a bear hospital alongside artists bears and Bear With Me Bears is in the capa- collecting world and asked for sugges- a few of the more historically well knownble hands of bear artist Sally Thomas of tions of a name for a bear shop ‘if ’ I were bears such as Merrythought, Chiltern,Downtothewoods Bears, who confesses to open one. Bear With Me was sug- Chad Valley, etc.”that running a shop has been in the pipe- gested and indeed is perfect as it embod-line since 2006. “I have always had a busi- ies patience and belonging in just three Sally is very proud of her bear hospital.ness plan ready since my interest in bears words.” “Nurse Thomas (that’s me!) offers a hos-grew from being a collector to a maker. pital service where ‘poorly’ bears will beI also followed in my mentors’ footsteps, So with the name decided, Sally assessed then support advice and surgerywho had an art shop needed to find a shop. “The premises were proposed.” Sally makes blind bears see and deaf bears hear; she mends limbs, joints encountered circumstantially and stuffing. “But most of all I make their while I was enquiring about owners happy, I make children smile and I some smaller units yet to be make the older bear lover just reminisce.” developed. I was encour- aged by the developer to There was one particular patient take a look at this premises.” that Sally felt she couldn’t help. “I was approached by a little girl and her mum From the outside the shop to ‘fix Pinky’. Pinky is a pig. A very, very looked very unloved, having well loved pig. Not poorly at all. But it stood empty for three years was agreed I would try to ‘fix’ Pinky. Well, with metal grids barring Pinky was just too adorable and precious the dirty windows. “So to attempt surgery on so I made the little I arranged a view inside girl a new Pinky in his likeness. and what a shock I got! Pinky sent a letter to her to tell her of It was cold and felt damp his news and thanking her for loving him and dreary but still, I saw properly, with a photo album of his adven- past it all and called in tures. It goes without saying that she was the support and advice of delighted and relieved that her beloved builders, plumbers, car- Pinky was untouched.” penters and electricians - and the tenancy was Sally will try her hardest to meet any request, whether for the hospital or the pursued.” shop. “I was recently asked for a gorilla. The amazing results The gentleman declared: “I call my wife are clear for all visitors to see. “I brought the58 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

shop profileMonkey and she calls me Silverback so I making bears, mending bears, sourcing there with Downtothewoods Bears andwas just wondering if you have any? Sadly, bears, emailing artists, stockists or suppli- to promote the new shop. I also supportI did not. Though if any collector has spe- ers and being front of house. Then there is the local, large, well run Pennine Craftcific beary needs, I will be happy to source photographing new stock, monitoring the Fairs who have fairs at Boughton House,their bears of preference.” website, answering the phone and chatting amongst other venues.” to the delivery guys.” Phew! Commissions are also something that With all this going on, you might thinkSally is happy to receive but sometimes As previously mentioned, Sally is plans for the future were on hold but Sallythey can be a bit of a challenge. “I was already well known for making her own likes to be busy. “I will be designing andcommissioned to create four siblings with bears. “Downtothewoods Bears has been creating my own line of wedding bears, toonly their name and a personality to go on. my baby for some time but I have never be launched in 2014.”So, can I proudly introduce: Oscar - who had enough time to give to my own crea-I was told was naughty. I later realised tivity as I worked full time in education. I Sally seems to have made bears andhe was sorry. His face said it all; Jonah continue to make one of a kind bears of all business the perfect marriage. Find herthe DJ; Maisy, who was a little girl, and sizes and textiles - whatever feels good to online at www.bearwithme.me or visit theElla the street dancer. These bears were the eye and fingertips.” shop if you are in the Northamptonshirean absolute joy to work on and they were area. “If you want to visit us in person,born so naturally.” As a bear artist in her own right, Sally trains run nationally to Kettering and the is used to conducting business online as shop is just a short walking distance from Sally’s bears are now entering the dig- well as person to person. So what does she the station.ital age. “My most exciting commission think are the benefits of visiting a shop?was for three brother bears to be used in “Some artists are yet to have their crea- We are accessible on the X4 bus routethe production of an e-book based on the tions found by the bear world and whilst from Peterborough or Milton Keynes andclient’s own family members. This is work some bears’ images look fantastic online, by car we are approximately one hour fromin progress, so watch this space - the excit- the workmanship may be substandard or most major cities in the centre of the UK.ing adventures of the three brothers are lack character. In a shop you should be Look for the pink shop!” TBTcoming soon. They are such very special able to engage physically and emotionallylittle bears.” with a creation and make a connection with it and the artist.” Sally’s shop can also A typical day begins with a mile long be found online at www.bearwithme.mewalk to the shop. “On opening the door,I shout: ‘Hello boys and girls!’ Once I’ve Sally still manages to find time to createput the lights on it’s time for breakfast and bears and you can find her out and abouta cuppa while I read the day’s emails.” at certain times of year. “I attend Hugglets at least once a year where I am fortunate Depending what is in the diary, Sally to have my own stand. I have exhibitedthen plans the rest of her day. “I am either t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 59

BEAR DOCTOR A balacing act of careJulie and Amanda try to discover how best theirwork should be described...but whichever wayyou look at it, the bears are always the winners By Amanda Middleditch and Julie TatchellA s we travel around return their lifelong friend to an From our professional and Getting nosey meeting new people undamaged condition. You will personal opinion, we feel a and their beloved have seen a good selection of strong duty to maintain as many The first patient we would bears, we are examples of this in past editions of our earlier bears as we can. like to introduce you to is acontinually reminded of the need of TBT. The history of the teddy bear is 1950’s Hermann bear sport-to address both the patient’s relatively short in comparison ing an interesting nose bag!needs and the customer’s We treat for moth and other with other works of art and His owner had added therequirements. It is never simply a insects which could cause historical artefacts and we are cover to his muzzle someprescriptive answer as we have potential damage. We clean sure that the care of such things years back and couldn’tto balance a number of factors. appropriate to age and material brings in to question similar remember what the condition used. We mend, strengthen and conflicts of their own. However, beneath was. Apart from this, The dictionary definition for replace limbs, eyes, stitching: all in years to come we would like he was in a very good statethe word ‘restoration’ is: ‘return- in keeping with the original style people to see ‘conserved’ ted- of repair. The first task was toing something to its earlier good of the manufacturer. Sometimes dies: those which have been remove his home made nose:condition or position’. Is this we are asked to leave certain brought to a state of repair that we could then see what wesomething that a teddy bear things as they are. Patches that can then be maintained for the had to deal with. He hadrestorer can achieve? Maybe if Grandma did many years ago, future. How sad it would be if maintained the upper half ofthe patient is quite new when odd eyes, a missing ear and all our dear old teddies simply the muzzle and his originalwe first see it but what about even a biro tattoo. turned to dust and thread and nose stitching. Although thethe oldest patients: those the only examples were those lower portion was missing,that are a hundred years old, We are more than happy to pictured in reference books.well-worn or damaged? Some do this because these thingspeople believe that leaving well are personal and evoke strong We don’t think people in thealone is the best answer. memories of a person or place: future would mind seeing the a special time in someone’s life. odd darn or re-covered paw: So is it right to leave such Our advice always pertains to such things tell a story.bears unattended in collections the continued ‘survival’ of theor museums simply because bear. We would encourage the Conservation – ‘to keeptheir state of repair suggests customer to allow us to repair something from damage,age? Perhaps the belief is that the things that could cause change or waste’.there is more value in a bear in future or further damage. So,its original state. Disintegrating are we restorers or preservers? What do you think our workand damaged is not its original is? TBTstate! The dictionary definition forthe word ‘preservation’ is: ‘theact of keeping the same or pre-venting it from further damage’.Is this a more realistic descrip-tion of the work we are requiredto and should do? The majority of our custom-ers are simply asking us to60 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

BEAR DOCTORStudying the classics CASE STUDYOur case studies for this issue are all of German origin.We have included Sanderson the Steiff from Alton whomwe mentioned last time, a Hermann with a poorly noseand a tiny little Schuco bear with a special missionthe addition of the cover by his felt it was part of his history. Birthdayowner had helped to contain the We then covered his paw honourswoodwool in its original shape. pads and added a little more Finally, we We then needed to find a stuffing to his arms. His feet bring you a tinypiece of fabric, in this case vel- had already been covered by a little Schucovet, that we could dye and age family member and his owner bear with wornto match. Once happy with the was happy with this to remain. out feet and amatch, we were able to replace However, some earlier darning worn nose. This littlethe lower half of his muzzle and attempts to his back and a poor guy has had a very busy lifeattach it to his face, taking care finishing to his closing seam and still belongs to his originalto keep the shape of its original required our attention. owner. She has owned himform. He then received some since she was a baby and isnew mouth stitching and a clean As we opened him up, we now 82 years young.and pamper before he went could see a glimpse of some-home. thing red inside. This is always We began by cutting out very exciting and we make a some felt pads for his feet,What’s the deal? point of photographing as we stitching them in to place and discover more! In this case the adding some extra woodwool As we promised in the last ‘red’ turned out to be a play- stuffing. After cleaning him (itedition of TBT, we can now ing card. At some point during didn’t take long) we tidied hisshare Mr Sanders’ restoration his life, someone had removed nose and mouth stitching andwith you. You may remember the workings of his growler by chose him a special bow inthat we collected him at the cutting a hole in the cardboard readiness for the tea party heAlton Teddy Bear Festival last housing. The playing card had was going to be star guestJune. (The date of this year’s been used to cover the hole and at. His owner’s daughter hadevent is 21st June). Mr Sanders then he had simply been sewn arranged a birthday surpriseis a centre seam Steiff dating back up. If only Mr Sanders for her mother who had nofrom around 1908. could talk! He then received his idea that we were repairing clean, pamper and new bow her little bear for her. He will He has lived with his fam- before returning to his very be waiting in her tea cupily for three generations but happy family. when she arrives! TBT was needing some help as his facial features, hands and legs were deteriorating. We began with the repairs to his face. The fabric was very fragile and, on consultation with his owner, it was decided that simply lining with soft felt so as to close the holes would be the best course of action. Usually, once lined, we would darn over such areas but his owner requested that we leave the lining exposed as she t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 61

ARTIST PROFILEWhen oldbecomes newKaren Brady’s love of antiques shines through inher work creating new “old” teddy bears By Lauren Nielsen Ibelieve the love of teddy bears and snuggly animals is with us from“ childhood,” says Karen Brady of Brady Bears Studio. However, Karen’s 62 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m love of teddy bears did not begin this early on. While studying art in college, Karen became interested in antique teddy bears. “I fell in love with antiques, especially antique dolls and toys. I learned about antique toy manufacturers, quality and price. This is where I first fell in love with bears,” she says. “I also had a friend whose mother was a teddy bear artist and also an antique collector,” Karen continues. “She showed me the basic construction of bears and how to draft patterns. I learned a lot about antiques and teddy bears from her.” “My background is in drawing and art history, though I’ve always been better at 3D design,” Karen says. This is why she believes making soft- sculpture pieces came naturally to her. “It was the perfect com- bination of all my talents and loves.” Karen tried out teddy bear making several years later after her children were born, and in 2006, she cre- ated Brady Bears Studio. “I combined my love of art and antiques into a business. This gave me the means to work and be at home with my children,” Karen shares. Living in a his- toric neighbourhood in

ARTIST PROFILEKnoxville, Tennessee, Karen is a full-time you can work with magazines, do contests, ready to list on eBay or an online show.soft-sculpture artist, creating one-of-a- join groups, and attend shows. I love Sometimes I have a magazine deadlinekind antique style mohair teddy bears, doing all those things, but all of them play or a contest coming up that needs mydogs, and other animals. into how much time you have to spend attention, and some days its all computer creating and how much time is spent sell- work.” Working from home can be a challenge ing.”sometimes, but with a supportive family While her days are anything but typi-around, it is much easier. “My husband is A typical workday does not exist for cal, Karen doesn’t mind. In fact, she muchthe first person I go to for an opinion or if Karen. There is always something dif- prefers it. “I love the fact that my daysI need help with a problem,” she tells us. ferent that has to be done each day or rotate as to what needs to be completed. IHe is also her biggest fan, followed closely week. “It could be that I need to work on don’t like redundant things and get boredby her mothers and fathers in-law. pieces for a shop deadline or I need pieces very easily if things don’t change,” she Karen’s daughters lend even moresupport, often asking their mom to maketeddy bears just for them. “My kids lovethe fact their mum makes all kinds of cuteanimals,” she adds. They also love spend-ing time in her studio as it is filled withthings to create. This is where Karen does all of herwork with her soft-sculpture pieces. “Ilove my studio because it’s filled with lotsof fun and whimsical pieces,” she begins.It “is filled with lots of art supplies, fab-rics, paints, dyes, and antique trinkets.I have many glass jars to hold my smallantique treasures. I also have a favouriteprimitive cabinet that’s filled with otherantique treasures.” For Karen, running her business is abig part of being an artist. “If you are aworking artist, you can’t just make yourproduct and you’re done. You have to payfor your materials, make it, then marketit,” she states. This “involves taking pho-tos, uploading and editing them, creatinga website, blog or Facebook page, creatingan eBay or Etsy store, answering emailsand boxing and shipping your product.” She continues, “If you go even further, t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 63

ARTIST PROFILE of where each bear has been. “You can see the history of their life insays. “Being an artist just naturally fitswith my personality and works with it to their patches of mohair, missing eyes, andmake all my days in the studio different sparsely stitched noses or their worn outand new.” paw pads with pieces of excelsior peeking through,” Karen tells us. Like most teddy bear artists, Karenusually works with mohair. However, her Karen also loves being able to chat withlove of antiques is also incorporated into collectors and know where all of her soft-her work with the materials she uses to sculpture teddies or animals are going. “Imake her pieces. “Sometimes I work with get to find out how happy my customersantique wool blankets and viscose fabrics. are with their new “old” bear,” she says.Viscose has a really great look that reallyworks when making antique style pieces,” Although Karen’s passion for mak-she notes. ing teddy bears started later on, she still embraces the life-long love that everyone All of Karen’s soft-sculpture pieces has for their own childhood teddy bear.are made in an “antique primitive style.” “From the first time you receive thatThis is Karen’s area of specialty. “I dis- special stuffed animal as a child, untiltress, stain, and dye my pieces to give you become and adult, you always have athem a well-loved look and feel. I add fondness for teddies and their friends andantique trinkets such as old photos, keys, welcome them into your home.” TBTor buttons, and dress them in vintage dollclothes or add lots of droopy ribbons.” THEBEARfacts Using the antique style that she loves, Brady Bears StudioKaren’s soft-sculpture pieces have that Karen Brady Hammontreespecial touch give them that unique, sweet, Web: www.BradyBears.comand loving look. What Karen loves about Email: [email protected] teddy bears and working in theantique style is that she can create a story64 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

bearMAIL BEAR MAIL ■ I love hearing from readers, so if you would like to write to Teddy Bear Times, please contact us by email: [email protected] or by writing to Letters TBT, Unit 5E, Park Farm, Chichester Road, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 0AG.Dear TBT William’s pilot’s helmet in front of an I also have a bear whose body is made As everyone is no doubt aware, 2014 aeroplane. Subsequently Sopwith was from a uniform type brown material to used to help raise many thousands of echo the Winston Churchill siren suit.marks the start of the centenary com- pounds for various RAF charities. Colour Box produced a model of a bearmemorations of WW1 and all of us who saved the life of his owner. The lit-arctophiles should honour and recog- The Second World War brought con- tle girl was in a train when it was strafednise the role the teddy bear has played flict very close to home so teddies once by an enemy fighter. She dived underin the two World Wars. again came into their own. They sup- the seat clutching the bear and when the ported many frightened children during attack was over, the poor bear was found Although teddy bears were only the darkest hours of the blitz, evacuation to have been hit in his arm; luckily hetwelve years old when the First World and bereavement. Winston, Lucky and lived to tell the tale!War broke out, they had already Joe were three such bears and whenfound their way into the hearts of their family eventually chose to leave the Then there were bears used asmany people. Bears were often given war-torn London, they were three of the Regimental mascots. I have one whoseas good luck mascots to soldiers going very few possessions taken with the fam- history is unknown, dressed in a hand-to the Front or to those left behind. The ily to a safe haven in the country. made Army uniform with a waistcoatmost famous of these mascots were the made from a Union Jack with manyFarnell “soldier” bears, small enough to I have a lovely large bear with an Regimental badges and assorted sou-fit into a uniform pocket and with slight- evacuation number on a cloth tag sewn venirs pinned to him – including a lively higher eyes than normal so that they onto his ear so he wouldn’t be lost en bullet!could see out. The bears could be pur- route. Children were all issued withchased in patriotic red, white or blue col- gas masks in case poison gas was used Another two bears tell the tale ofours as well as traditional brown. Edwin against the civilian population in the separation of a German family – andis one such mascot bear; he was taken to event of an invasion. Mostly, these their bears – by the Berlin wall and theirthe front by his owner Percy Kinnersley- masks were contained in a Mickey eventual reuniting in Liverpool.Badderly, who unfortunately was killed Mouse cover but for those chil-in the Somme offensive of 1916 with dren whose parents could afford it, Many museums, including BletchleyEdwin in his pocket. Although Percy Merrythought issued an Avon range Park and the International Warwas buried in France, Edwin did make of covers which included either a girl Museum in London, have bears init back to Blighty amongst Percy’s per- or boy bear. The bears’ faces and paws them that have played important roles insonal effects. were a mohair type material and they times of conflict, so we really must not underestimate the role of bears in world Harwin and Co produced the very were dressed in either a felt dress or history and to society.sought after larger mascot bears dressed felt trousers, all attached to the cover.in the uniforms of the Allied Forces. Although many of these bears are ofThese Ally Bears were often given by uncertain origin, they were priceless toservicemen to their friends and family their owners, providing a friendly facewho were left behind when they went off and listening ear in a time of trouble.to fight. Colour Box Bears produced a When bears with this kind of prov-model of Sopwith, a bear who was in the enance come up for sale they do com-cockpit of his owner, William Turnbull, mand higher prices, as people can iden-when he suffered a fatal crash in his tify with the emotions and history theyDe Havilland aeroplane over Salisbury have lived through. Perhaps now is thePlain. A photograph exists from 1917 time someone should take on the mantleof Sopwith sitting in of compiling all these wonderful tales of bear derring-do into a book? Kirsty Johnstone t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 65

artist’sDIARY withAndyWestAndy has met many people, with variedinterests, over the years but this time, hecouldn’t quite believe what he was hearingNow all of you that have met me “I suppose so”, I said; “is there Naturists, you see is the know that I like nothing more than any other kind?” polite term. Some people refer to them- a good chat about bears and bear selves as “Sun Lovers”, but I cannot help making; so much so that in the “Oh” she said. “Why do you but feel this is a little vague. I like the sunpast there have been grumblings at bear feel he felt he had to tell us?” myself, but you won’t find me walking downshows about the noise coming from my the high street starker’s.stand! “I don’t know”, I said. “Perhaps they’re going to start to So yes “naturists”…very polite. I was I chat to everyone and at the Hove bear form a bare bear fair.” congratulating myself on this great actshow last December I got chatting to a very of diplomacy when I happened to noticenice couple, Doug and Susie. They’re in HID grunted something about Susie’s expression. Imagine passing yourtheir early 50’s, I’d say. He works in com- that not being a pretty sight and MP in the street and asking them to popputers, she’s a nurse. We met when HID where on earth would I put my spare sew- you’re shopping on their expenses. Can youwas setting up my stand. I was, as usual, ing needles! (I usually pin them to my cloth- picture the expression on their face? Wellhelpfully pointing out the areas of my stand ing!) that’s what Susie looked like.she had missed, when a voice from behindme said “Hello. You must be that Diary of a At this point Susie, Doug’s wife came “I’m sorry” she said “I could have swornBear Artist bloke”. into view. Now if I have a fault, it’s that I am you said naturists”. not the type of person who is backward We could not fault him on this point and at coming forward. But I have to say that “Oh yes” I said, although perhaps not asintroduced ourselves. “I’m Doug” said the even I could not start a conversation with a confidently as before.voice. “You’re setting up your stand then?” new customer by asking her whether she’sWe could not fault him on this point either. a genuine nudist or not when we haven’t The news seemed to have come as“That’s the worse bit of going to shows isn’t even been properly introduced. something of a surprise to Susie. “Have Iit” he said. “You think you have just finished put my foot in it?” I wondered.and then the other half points out you’ve Anyway, the good news is that Susiemissed a bit or the angle is not right.” and I were soon getting on like old chums. “No, no” she said. “I’m just puzzled, It helps that she loved my punk bears and that’s all. I can’t understand why Doug “That’s right” said HID, keen to get on was once a punk herself. We talked about would tell you that”but anxious not to offend. our misspent youth as punks (I was the first punk in my home town of Horsham!) before “Oh,” I said. “You know what us men are “”I hope you don’t mind me asking” moving on to more interesting matters. like. We just blurt things out”.said Doug, “But I see from your businesscards we are nearly neighbours and I was “Doug was telling us that you’re natur- “But we’re not naturists” she said. “Thewondering if we could pop around some ists”, I said. last time I sunbathed topless, I was 21time, what with us being nudists”. years old…and that was in Spain. It has to be about 40 degrees before Doug even With this bombshell, his phone rang undoes his top button!”and he excused himself politely and dis-appeared out of the room. At this instant, Susie giggled and leaned across to me. “Perhaps he has a secret HID fiddled with the stand for a life,” she said.moment and then called over. “What didhe say he was? I wasn’t listening, to be If Doug did have a secret life it washonest, not after his comments about set- about to be exposed. Because at thatting up”. moment, he arrived back at the stand with a big bag of bear making supplies. “Just “He said they were nudists”, I explained. thought I would have a go at making a “Oh,” said HID, before carrying on dis-playing the bears. If HID has a fault, it’s thatsome things take a bit of time to sink in.she carried on for about 30 seconds beforesome sort of light bulb went off in her head. “Does he mean people who take off theirclothes?” she said “That kind of nudists?”66 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

 Andy West of Westie Bears is an award winning artist based in Horsham, West Sussex.He started making bears as therapy to cope with a disability. He is well known for hisminiature bears and is a British Bear Artist Award winner. He has also been a semi finalistin the Barclay Trading Places Awards and was winner of the West Sussex County TimesBusiness Award. In 2008 he was awarded Bronze in the Barclay Trading Places Awards.WESTIE BEARS TIP: many people have issues with turn-ing their miniature bears after sewing. Always go to a pointwhere the seams meet and never ever pull the fabric...justgently ease it out. In fact, caress it like a loved one! Formicro bears try a small amount of tacky wax on the end ofyour tweezers to give a little extra grip.bear” he said. Doug is clearly a lover of the does have a lovely big window where I can - stuffing! Back to making my little cre-obvious. spy on the neighbours and general public. ations including designing a special com- Maybe some of those people will be recre- mission for a lady in South Africa who “Why have you been telling Andy and ated into bears? (I must say that none of wants a mother bear cuddling her fourhis wife that we are naturists?” said Susie, my neighbours inspire the tart bears...or do cubs (to represent a real life mother andwithout waiting for further news about bear they?!) her four children).making supplies. Wednesday: I love insects!...have you The Weekend: As per usual, a show to Doug blushed, and looked puzzled. To do ever stopped and properly looked at a tiny prepare for and attend. I was glad thatboth at the same time is no mean achieve- little insect and admired its technical ability, numbers seemed to be up for the Hovement. colours etc? Well today I saw a little beetle Bear fair last December. It was great to that looked just like a little elf (no I am not be back at Hove Town Hall which was “Earlier on, when we were setting up, you going madder than I already am). Well that a happy time for me. Hove was the firstasked if you could pop around because you beetle has inspired me to make more of my ever bear fair that I attended all thosewere nudists”, I explained. little micro bears that are about 1” tall. Just many years ago and where I was drawn in time for my next show. So watch out for into the magical fun world of bears. “Did I?” he said. micro bears that think they are insects. “You did”, I confirmed. “I thought it was a I also bought my first ever artist bearslittle odd at the time”. Thursday: New workshop but I wish I could there, both by Judy Taylor (I purchased We stood in silence for a second while trade Lily the cat in for a more sedate and one little fellow but had to go back for hisDoug struggled for an explanation. Then, well behaved cat! Lily has decided not only mate as I thought he would be lonely!).all at once, the truth dawned, “Not nudists, to bring me a present of a live bird but also Last December’s Hove Fair had a greatsilly,” he laughed. “I said we were newbie’s… walks all over the work bench and fabrics atmosphere and was great fun.new bear collectors and all that.” with muddy paws! She then decides to run Phew…just goes to show, when you off out into the garden with a half made bear. Have fun until next timecome up to talk to me, if I look at all con- But I cannot stay mad with her for long oncefused please check I have got the conversa- she looks at me with those big soulful eyes! Andy xxbear hugstion right!!! And yes HID has booked me into see an ear, nose and throat specialist to Friday: Last night chasing cats, today [email protected] out my ears (maybe they should sewup my mouth at the same time?) Now what else has been happening in theWestie Bear world?Monday: Busy sewing orders today. I haveto finish an order for a certain large store inLondon. They are great to work for as theytell me how many bears they want and thentell me ‘let your imagination go wild!’ So hereI am sewing biker bears and tarts (not straw-berry but the kind who like to stand undera red light!). I love to use my imaginationto create little characters which I know willmake people smileTuesday: HID has decided to swap myworkroom for a room at the front of thehouse. Yes, it is a lovely room but it does nothave that creative messy-ness to it. But it t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 67

PATTERNRosie the baby Asian elephant By Nicole Woodward, Pic-Nic-BearsNicole Woodward of Pic-Nic-Bears offers TBT running in and line up all the Rosie pattern pieces on the back of the fabric, using thereaders the chance to recreate her winning arrows as a guide. Mark out each piece, check that you have all the pieces and thatdesign from the ‘Friend for Pudsey’ competition they are reversed where indicated, and cut out.T his delightful pattern has been pattern. spread over two magazines, to Personally I prefer to duplicate the Transfer all marks carefully; make sure include her applique and clothing. that you stop cutting in the right place In this issue, cut out and sew pattern pieces either by retracing them or for the mouth at H, so you can insert theRosie ready to be stuffed and assembled. photo copying them until I have every piece mouth gusset.Instructions for assembling, complete with I need to make the elephant with the piecesher PJs, will follow in the June/July issue. that need reversing, reversed. This means Head that there is less chance of mistakes and I•PLEASE READ THROUGH THE PATTERN can figure out more easily the correct layout Pin, tack, and machine sew all the darts of the paper pattern pieces on the fabric. on the side head pieces and the head gus-CAREFULLY BEFORE MAKING! set. Remove the tacking and press the NB: Please make sure that you have sello- darts flat.Method taped the paper trunk pattern piece on to the paper head gusset piece before cutting Taking the two side head pieces, match Enlarge all pattern pieces by 166.7% out in fabric! the darts up and pin the two pieces togeth- Cut out all the paper pattern pieces. ¼’’ er from A to B. Tack, machine sew andseam allowance is already included in the Decide the direction the denim fabric is remove the tacking. Please make sure that you stitch around the curve of the lower lip,68 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

PATTERNYOU’LLneed using back stitch and treat with fray check Legs as you did with the mouth gusset. FOR THE ELEPHANT Please note that the front and back legs ■ 100cm x 70cm of medium Taking a 1cm strip of black mohair, cut are slightly different from each other so take a small hole into the centre and thread this care when matching up the pieces. weight denim in charcoal black. onto the safety eye, feathering the pile out ■ 20cm x 20cm Light pink wool along the edge to make eyelashes. Trim the I appliquéd a butterfly onto one of the excess eyelash fabric to suit the eye and foot pads as a decorative detail using the felt insert the eye into the head where indicat- small print fabric and the butterfly template, ■ 20cm x 20cm deep pink wool ed. Loosely push the security washer onto but this is optional. the eye. Repeat for the other eye. felt Pin front and back legs together, match- ■ Fat 1/16 of butterfly print fabric Turn right side out and check that the ing up the opening marks and the edge, eyes are evenly spaced and correctly leaving the area for the toes as indicated (optional for the butterflies on in aligned before pushing the security washer open for the moment. Now machine sew the ears or you can use felt) on fully. Set the head to one side. along the edge and carefully snip into the ■ 4 x sets of 76mm cotter pin curves without cutting the stitches. This joints…head, neck and back Ears helps to turn the leg out properly and give a legs better shape when the leg is finished. ■ 2 x sets of 65mm cotter pin Match one felt/print fabric ear piece joints…front legs with a denim piece; pin, tack and machine Back legs ■ 2 x 10mm clear safety eyes sew from L to M. Repeat for the other ear. (plus 3cm scrap of long pile Remove tacking and carefully trim any Matching the letter B on the back leg black mohair for eyelashes, excess fabric from the edge. Treat with fray toe piece to the centre seam marked B on which is optional) check, leave to dry and then turn them right the back leg, insert the toe piece from the ■ Fray check… for around the side out. centre at B to the edge marked A; pin, tack mouth and trunk end and machine sew into place. Repeat for the ■ 400 g of polly pellets… 75g in Making sure that the corners have been other back leg and remove the tacking. each leg and 100g in the body carefully turned through, ladder stitch the ■ Polyester fiber toy filling open edge and press flat. Set to one side. Taking a foot pad, match up the centre line on the foot pad with C on the toe piece FOR THE CLOTHING Neck then match up the notches with the seams ■ Fat ¼ of stripy cotton material… and pin, whilst easing the foot pad into Fold the neck piece in half with right place. for the PJ’s sides together, matching the shortest edge ■ Fat 1/16 of small floral print at A and B, pin and machine sew along Now tack carefully around the edge, this edge. Pin, tack and machine sew the making sure you follow the shape around fabric… to make the cuffs on the remaining circle along the edge where indi- the toes. Machine sew and remove the PJ’s and applique butterflies. cated, matching up P and A. Remove the tacking; repeat for the other back leg. ■ Iron on interfacing tacking, turn right side out and set to one ■ 3 x 5mm heart shaped buttons side. Front legs ■ 25cm x 5mm wide clothing elastic Body Matching the letter R on the front leg toe piece to the centre seam marked Rstopping at A. Pin, tack, and machine sew all the darts on the front leg, insert the toe piece from Now pin the trunk on the two side head on the two body pieces, remove tacking the centre marked R to the edge marked and press the darts open and flat. There will W; pin tack, and machine sew into place.pieces from C to D; tack, machine sew and be a bit of surplus fabric at the end of the Repeat for the other front leg and removeremove the tacking. You should be left with darts; this needs trimming back to a mini- the tacking.an opening from G to H to permit you to mum to give a clean edge along the backinsert the mouth gusset. of the elephant. Taking a foot pad, match up the centre line on the foot pad with the C on the toe Insert the mouth gusset, matching A on Pin the two body pieces together from piece then match up the notches with thethe gusset to A on the side head piece; do Y at the neck, to Z, matching up the darts seams and pin whilst easing into place.the same for G. Ease and carefully pin the S, O, and Z. Now tack from Y to Z along Now tack carefully around the edge, mak-gusset into place, then by hand, back stitch the back of the elephant; machine sew and ing sure you follow the shape around thearound the mouth gusset several times to remove the tacking. toes. Machine sew and remove the tacking;secure it into place. Treat the edges with repeat for the other front leg.fray check to strengthen the fabric in that Next insert the body gusset starting fromarea. the dart Z on the body and match up the Z Turn all the legs the right side out and on the body gusset. Pin, tack, and machine set to one side. Pin, tack and machine sew one side sew along one side from Z to X. Removeof the head to the head gusset, matching the tacking. Repeat for the other side, NB: You will need to make the PJ’s beforeup E to F and the darts as indicated by *; remembering to leave an opening where jointing and stuffing Rosie. See instructionsrepeat for the other side. Remove the tack- indicated. Now pin, tack, and machine sew for this in issue 211, available May 2014.ing stitches. one of the circles into the opening for the neck. Remove the tacking, turn right side Please note: The pattern is for your Now insert the nose gusset at the open out and set to one side. personal use only and remains theend of the trunk, hand stitch into place property of Pic-Nic-Bears t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 69

PATTERN NAILS F Cut 4 sets in darker pink felt *Match dart on GATHEROPEN CENTRE MATCH head gusset STUFFING LINE WITH SEAM here on both DART sides LEAVE FOOT PAD B EYE POSITIONLIP Cut 4 in lighter pink felt to march ears SIDE OF HEADDENIM FABRIC UPPHER DART Cut 2 one in reverse MOUTH CUDTART A DG DART LLIOPWER FP PF XX GATHER GATHER NECK MOUTH GUSSET BODY GUSSET Cut in darker G TOP STUFFING LINE FRONT LEGS Cut one pink felt to A FRONT LEGS match nose HEAD GUSSET gusset and Cut one nails DART NOSE GUSSET Cut in felt to DART match mouth- *Match to gusset where indicated STITCH on side head LINE piecesE DENIM FABRIC C ATTACH TO OPEN HEAD GUSSET ATTACH HERE BEFORE DENIM FABRIC BACK LEGS BACK LEGS TRUNK PATTERN CUTTING OUT HERE BEFORE INSERT OF FABRIC AT CUTTING OUT FROM FABRIC TRUNK Z HEAD GUSSET EE70 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

PATTERN SS BACK O O Y BODY DART Cut 2 one in reverse DART NECK INSERT CIRCLE HERE 65mm joint 76mm joint ZZ DART DENIM FABRIC X TUMMY SEW TO BODY GUSSET GATHER WITH STRONG THREAD ALONG THIS EDGEB INSERT CIRCLE HERE NECK JOINT B A Cut 1 A DENIM FABRIC P INSERT CIRCLE HERE A One circle is inserted TOP SIDE into the neck joint the Cut 2 other is into the body EARS DENIM FABRIC Cut 2 in light pink feltOPEN JOINTING HOLE JOINT 76mm L to match foot pads P Cut 2 one reversed in denim M BASE t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 71

72 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m W C PATTERN INSERT D TOES B FRONT LEG S BACK LEGS C EA Cut 2 one in reverse Cut 2 one in reverse U 65mm joint R 76mm joint OPEN S OPEN DENIM FABRIC FRONT LEG DENIM FABRIC OPEN Cut 2 one in reverse D BACK LEG DENIM FABRIC Cut 2 one in reverse DENIM FABRIC OPEN U R W RLIENGSEMWRA-TRTCI-NWHTIONG TOES W A INSERT B A BLIENGSEMARA-TBTCI-NAHTIONG BACK LEG A TOES TOES FRONT LEG Cut 2 in denim Cut 2 in denim W TOES C C E

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SHOW PREVIEW aOlFl tThHeEfuFnAIR Excitement is already building as a Hampshire town gets ready for the 2014 Alton Teddy Bear Festival By Gregory BurtA lton, Hampshire’s friendliest bespoke sellers. posters in bus shelters as well banners on market town, really did live up Traders seemed to feel that this the way into town, backed up by a master to its proud boast when it hosted class in how to use social media such as its first ever Teddy Bear Festival approach worked well last year too, Facebook to great effect; tools that workedin June 2013. Despite some un-summery with good feedback from those who so well, they will all be repeated again thisweather threatening to dampen and blow were attending which included Apple year to full effect.away some of the merriment that had been Pie House, with their eclectic range ofplanned for the lawns, organisers ensured bears from around the world produced The final word on last year’s eventthat there was a very warm welcome inside by leading names such as Charlie Bears, must go to festival-goer Glaswegian Fionato cheer stallholders and visitors who had Steiff and award winning bear artistes; Wallace who had come from north of thecome from as far as Scotland, Wales and the impressive line-up also featured Jan’s border especially: “I love teddy bears,Devon for the debut event. Tiddy Bears, Higgy’s Bears, Puzzle Bears, friends and travel, so this seemed to tick Orkid Bears, and Sherford Valley Bears. all three boxes. I had heard about the Such was the success of the event, the event through Facebook and then, speak-Second Alton Teddy Bear Festival will be Whilst St John Ambulance or the Red ing to my friends about it, I discoveredtaking place on Saturday 21st June at the Cross are often kept busy manning the that they were also planning on going, so IAlton Assembly Rooms in Hampshire, First Aid Posts at our summer festivals, booked a flight and the rest as they say isand will have FREE entry for all the fam- Julie Tatchell and Amanda Middleditch history.” She added “Alton is such a beau-ily. from Bear-it-in-Mind of Beaulieu had a tiful town and the event was great fun, long queue of ‘casualties’ at their stand, I will definitely be coming back again.” Whilst some Teddy Bear Festivals offering advice and suggesting treatments And what do you know? She has alreadyappear to discourage children booked her hotel and travel. TBTand families, odd though that to bears in need of some tlc, and will bemay sound to some, the organ- making a welcome return thisisers will once again be striv- year to help other poorly bears.ing to strike a good balance For a first event last year,between appealing to local organisers Assembly Roomsfamilies and also those who Manager Jason Passinghamare happy to travel afar to and friend Jane Griffin pulledview the latest offerings from out all the stops to ensure a very good attendance, with giant •The 2014 Festival will be taking place on Saturday 21st June. For further information on how to get involved in next years festival email: [email protected] t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

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