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HNOEWWCTUOPDADDDLYADCTINOELGALTECOCTNHIO’ASNDFCRHVOAAMRLCLITHEYAYRBLBIAEEUBAEBRALRESS £4.99 $8.50 Aug/Sept 2014teddytibmees arteddybeartimes.com FPINARTSTEEIDRENE Make Freya the adorable rabbit Camping ted has perfect summer holiday THE SCOTTISH STEIFF BEAR CONNECTION ISSUE 212Hugglets Teddies2014 PREVIEW

teddytimbees arcontentsIssue 212 - August/September 2014Editor: Jill Mundy 4 Teddy TalkEmail: [email protected] Latest news of allAssistant Editor US: Lauren Nielsen things bearyEmail: [email protected] 6 Steiff – the Scottish connectionAdvertisement sales:UK office: Maria Fitzgerald An important collection from Scotland isEmail: [email protected] about to be sent to auctionUS office: Sara VixEmail: [email protected] 8 An afternoon of pure indulgenceDesign: Wendy Crosthwaite Welcome to another wonderful Silly Bears eventSubscriptions:UK: [email protected] 12 It’s a fur addictionUS: [email protected] Life is very busy for the husband and wife team behind Emma’s BearsContributors: 16 Childhood memoriesAndy West, Julie Shepherd, Monica Spicer, Chad Valley bears in detail, from Grandma’sSylvia Young, Sue Quinn, Joanne McDonald, Teddies Teddy Bear MuseumAmanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell 20 Choices, choices, choices… There is so much to tempt you in thePublished by ashdown.co.uk August Bear Sale at VectisISSN 0961 - 0944 24 Fun with FreyaDistributed to the news trade by Comag. A delightful bunny pattern from Jan Cardey at Pipedream BearsTo reach us: 28 Such lovable fellowsCall us on +44 (0) 1903 884988 Teddy bears in a window inspiredOr write to: The Editor, Teddy Bear Times, Karin Jehle to become a bear artistUnit 5E, Park Farm, Chichester Road, 32 From farm to freedomArundel, West Sussex, BN18 0AG Animals Asia’s new project toEmail: [email protected] save more tortured bearsFax: +44 (0) 1903 885514 35 The fifth annual NTBAAInternet address: www.teddybeartimes.com News from Brewins’ Bruins and the National Teddy Bear Artists’ AwardsUS office: Ashdown Inc., 68132 250th Avenue, 38 YoYo Bears are on the upKasson, MN 55944, USA. Life is all about ups and downs and forTel: 507 634 3143 designer Yolande LevyEmail: us [email protected] rates:1 year (6 issues)UK £34.50; US $66; ROW £49iMAG £43Add the iMag Digital Library to yoursubscription for only an extra £32 per year.Postmaster: Send address corrections to Ashdown Inc,68132 250th Avenue, Kasson, MN 55944, USA. CanadaPost International Publications Mail - Sales Agreement No.546038.All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part withoutthe written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Alleditorial contributions in the form of articles, letters andphotographs (b/w or colour print or transparencies) arewelcomed by Teddy Bear Times but cannot be returnedunless accompanied by a stamped addressed envelope.In any event the publisher can accept no responsibility forloss or damage to contributions. Material is accepted solelyon the basis that the author accepts the assessment of thePublisher as to its commercial value.All material submitted to the magazine for publicationin whatever form is accepted solely on the basis thatcopyright in the work will be vested in the publisher whoassumes all rights worldwide, in all forms and in all media.© copyright ashdown.co.uk

welcome41 Orphaned cubs go wild WELL I don’t know about you but everyone I know Three orphaned bear cubs are being helped by an animal charity (including myself) seems to be constantly dashing from42 From little hugs... one place to another with hardly enough time to draw Find out how the magic of Hugglets began breath in between. Whatever happened to those ‘lazy,44 All the fun of the fair hazy days of summer’? I recently heard that, with all the A preview of some of the exhibitors at Hugglets Teddies 2014 technology we use these days, we are forgetting how to56 Bear Doctors just sit and think. It’s wonderful to have so much valu- More tender bear repairs from our resident conservators able information at our fingertips but there is definitely58 Dear Julie something to be said for rest and relaxation. Problem solving advice from someone who knows the best tips I’m not sure many bear artists get much of that, judg-60 Teddy Bear Artist Event 2014 ing by the profiles and fair reports in this issue. If they’re Julie Shepherd reports from the Stratford fair not recovering from the last bear fair, then they’re sure64 Brierley Bears and other to be working all hours in preparation for Hugglets or woodland creatures Welcome to the enchanting world one of the many other autumn fairs. We feature some of Kat Hartley and Brierley Bears of the Hugglets exhibitors and find out how Irene and66 Diary of a bear artist Andy tries to help a damsel in distress Glenn Jackman got the whole thing started. but becomes rather distressed himself If you’re new to bear collecting, then Hilary Pauley68 Bearzaar happenings on Tyneside from Grandma’s Teddies Teddy Bear Museum has some Sylvia Young meets Gillian Wilkinson of Teds from the Tyne valuable tips for recognising and dating Chad Valley70 A path paved with teddy bears bears, while Vectis Auctions preview their August doll A change of direction encouraged Brenda Parker of BrendaBears and bear sale, with some wonderful bears and other characters up for grabs, including a large collection of Steiff bears. With the Commonwealth Games tak- ing place in Glasgow shortly, it seems appropriate that these come from a Scotsman who has worked closely with the company for many years. Wherever you are in the world, I hope you enjoy this issue and manage to read it in peace and quiet - and a comfy armchair of course! Till next time Jill 74 74 My workroom Paula Carter of All Bear invites you to take a look around her workroom Cover photo: Clothilde by Les Petits Lutéciens

teddyTALK ■ If you have any news that you would like included in Teddy Talk please contact us by email: [email protected] or by writing to Teddy Talk TBT, Unit 5E, Park Farm, Chichester Road, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 0AG New kits from Bearly New from Bearleigh Bears Sane Bears THESE TWO cute summery characters BSB BEAR Supplies are launching a are brand new creations by Susan range of kits for bears and other ani- Leigh of Bearleigh Bears. mals, all designed by Sharon Aish. Bluebell (below) is 11 cm tall and This lovable critter is Scraps the made from frosted periwinkle mini bear dog, 8” of cuteness, available from fur and is AUD $95. BSB ebay shop http://stores.ebay. co.uk/BSB-BEAR-SUPPLIES or call Georgie Boy (above) is 11cm tall 01752 403515 and made from frosted brown mini bear fur and is AUD $95.Bears are gatheringin Nottingham To see more of Susan’s bears and other creatures, visit www.bearleigh- bears.com Coming soon: a new pattern from Susan for readers to make will be in a future issue of TBT.THE NOTTINGHAM Bear Fair will take placeon Monday 25th August at Patchings ArtCentre in the picturesque north Nottinghamcountryside. The event includes individual art-ist bear makers with bears to suit all tastes,teddy bear shops supplying well-knownbrands (as well as some more unusual offer- ings), and material suppliers, to provide all your bear-making needs. With 20 traders from all over the country, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for at this popular event. Admission and parking are free, and Patchings Art Centre includes a café, galleries, artist studios, and an art materials shop to round off your trip. For more information and a list of traders, please visit www.nottinghambearfair.co.uk4 teddybeartimes.com

TEDDY TALK bearMAILCharlie Bears, tea Beary tastyand cupcakes While clearing out old photos,Teddy Station is pleased I came across this amusing one. Itto announce their first was taken in a shopping centre nearCharlie Bears event Burgos, Spain in July 2010 while visiting my son-in-law’s family. ITHE AIM of our first Charlie Bear Meet-up is Teddy Station offers a great selection spotted the lovely large bear andto have a get together of like-minded Charlie of Special Edition Teddy Bears, all at great asked my husband to take the pic-Bear collectors to share favourite photos and prices. With almost 30 different brands in ture. Afterwards, I realised it looksteddy moments. It would be great if collec- stock, including the hugely popular Charlie as if the bear is licking his lips at thetors brought along a friend or even a Charlie Bears, there is a bear to suit every taste and tortilla and bread I amBear. We want to get loads of photos of the budget. holding!day. We are situated on the first floor of the I love this picture We will have all our Charlie Bears on show Victoria Shopping Centre with free car park- and it is now so specialready for a hug. ing on Sundays. Alternatively the Southend as my husband sadly Victoria train station is directly opposite the passed away after a Free Tea and Charlie Bear Cup Cakes for shopping centre. stroke in April 2012,all! Which bear do you want on your cup- aged only 63 yearscake? Bear hunt and a non-smoker or drinker. Happy You will also receive a free raffle ticket on JUST FOR a bit of fun, we have memories.arrival for two Charlie Bears worth over £100. hidden this picture of a little bear some- where on one of the pages in this issue. Mrs M. Wright- Date: 19 October 2014 Don’t forget to hunt for it while you are Thompson Time: 13:00 - 15:00 reading your favourite magazine. Answer Venue: Teddy Station, 1st Floor, will be printed next time! Last issue we Potbelly Bears fan Victoria Shopping Centre, hid it on page 42. I recently came across the most Southend on Sea, Essex SS2 5SP wonderful bears ever. I fell in love For more details, visit www.teddystation. with these bears and the artist, Shellico.uk/charlie-bear-event-2014-i-15.html (Quinn), is such a lovely, helpful woman. I managed to get my very own bear - Whimmy is wonderfully made and he is such a sweet bear. I just wanted to tell other bear collec- tors how lovely Potbelly Bears are. I love my Whimmy bear more than anything. Keally Eaton teddybeartimes.com 5

vintage bearsSteiff – the ScottishconnectionSteiff have produced several Scottish bears since2000, some more popular than others. Now animportant collection is about to be sent to auction By Joanne McDonald, Vectis AuctionsN ot all sales reps are passionate felt pads and feet and hand embroidered Scottish stalwart and Steiff saw Hamish about their products but Hamish brown nose and mouth. He sported a again being pivotal in the development of Strang lived and breathed Steiff ‘Tam O’ Shanter’ inspired tartan cap and the edition. Jenner’s, the oldest depart- during his time as their Scottish matching scarf. The tartan, designed by ment store in the world, situated onSales Executive. husband and wife team of Ronnie and Gail Hek, was woven in Scotland in the renowned Princes Street in Additionally, being a passionate hues of red, blue and yellow to represent Edinburgh, has always claimedScotsman, Hamish could see that a part- the main political parties in Scotland to ‘Endeavour to obtain in everynership between the world’s foremost and was released as the initial Scottish instance a quality of goods thatsoft toy manufacturer and his beloved Parliament Tartan. It was replaced by an will give the most satisfaction’.Scotland would be a winning one. Having official Parliament tartan in 2009 when a With that in mind Steiff hadbeen involved with numerous successful competition was run to for many years been sold inexclusives, Hamish felt strongly about the find a new pattern. At the toy department. In 2005proposition of a Scottish ted. The limited 30cm tall (12”) he was Hamish helped Jenner’sedition bear would need to make a state- released in 2000 in an to herald its own Steiffment, being bold and brave, reflecting the edition of 3,000 pieces exclusive in the ‘Andrewhistory and importance of its country. for the UK and Ireland Bear’, a golden mohair and he was quickly bruin wearing a St Hamish was instrumental in the devel- snapped up by eager col- Andrews ‘Saltire’ medal-opment of the first and most popular in lectors. lion on a matching blue rib-terms of collectors’ Steiff Scottish Bear. bon. Although initially to beCrafted in dark blond mohair with a A second Scottish released in an edition of 1,500slight wave to the pile, he had light brown bear followed in 2001; a slightly more portly only 300 were actually produced, making fellow in snow white, this bear extremely sought after for collec- fluffy mohair, wearing a tors and not one that is often seen on the muted version of the tar- secondary market. tan and a bow tie. He was a much slower seller. This could be Hamish retired in 2009 and has now due to the fact that the hat and scarf of the decided to part with his large collection first bear was produced in Scotland and which will be sold at Vectis Auctions on the production of the subsequent acces- Friday 29th August. sories was manufactured in-house at Steiff, resulting in a hat which did not have the Maybe if the vote for Scottish inde- true feel of a Tam O’Shanter and indeed pendence is successful we might see a looked too small (more like a beret). He ‘Scottish Independence Ted’? TBT was still produced in a limited edition of 3,000 but was to be the last Scottish Bear release. A collaboration between another6 teddybeartimes.com

www.teddybear-museum.co.uk Teddy bears from 1900 to 1950s An on-line resource for collectors to compare their teddy bears to others Teddy bears with no identification mark or label are classed as “similar to” We would love to showcase your bears so that others can see them We have some lovely visitors already!If you would like to have your teddies for sale at nocharge please get in touch. Contact [email protected]

featureAn afternoon ofpure indulgence!A wealth of spectacular bears, musical masteryand delectable treats; welcome to anotherwonderful Silly Bears event By Jennifer CunninghamOn Saturday the 14th of June pieces of music, all at Silly Bears feel In comparison to these events it is a at Silly Bears tranquil little honoured to have Paul in our company privilege and a testament to friendship haven, their dedicated team year on year. Annually he graces us with that the Afternoon of Pure Indulgence is commandeered the approaching his presence, one which, in the past, has yearly pencilled into this diary. ProprietorMidsummer’s Day for an Afternoon played a private audience in front of Her Julieann Bruce commented enthusiasti-of Pure Indulgence. The selection of Majesty the Queen and he regularly cally: “Over the years we have becomethis particular day is chosen in tribute performs at various high society gather- close friends and it is an honour for Sillyto the longest day of the calendar year, ings - a booking diary laden with the most Bears and our patrons to have him presentreflecting on the celebration of the height prestigious occasions! here today.” Paul has been named amongof summer and the start of the the finest of his generation and yet he stillHighland Gatherings. The lEFT: Silly Bears staff generously plays on this Midsummersmeeting of patrons reflects preparing the cocktails for Day, his sweet notes proving so catchy thatthe meeting of people at the the day a few guests replied with a dance!gatherings, yet is more bears BElOw: The gatheringsand champagne than kilts and of patrons, old and new, We have realised that it is this combina-bagpipes! sharing their teddy bear tion of Paul’s entrancing performance; the meticulously selected teddy bear collec- The melodic tune of the stories! tions, in their exacting curation, from an‘March of the Teddy Bears’danced its way from Silly Bearsdecadent period styled abode tofill the surrounding streets withits perfectly poised notes. Theshop’s residence in the GraniteCity of Aberdeen on the NorthEast Coast of Scotland hasreally shaped and enriched the soul of thebusiness. The Midsummer’s Day Eventhas become the runaway favourite of allSilly Bears annual events and resolved toencourage the best of the Scots characterand joviality to all who don their doorstepon this day! The notes of Paul Anderson, renownedScots fiddler, consumed the shop and theattention of the guests, serenading all atour Afternoon of Pure Indulgence. Paulis a man with an extraordinary talent, onewhich is hard to do justice to with words.Having composed over three hundred8 teddybeartimes.com

featureassortment of globally renowned artists; fodils adorned this felted design. ABOVE: An assortment of globally renownedand the ever loyal custom of Silly Bears’ Also welcomed to Silly bears was the artist bears.discerning collectors – that create such below LEFT: Silly Bears attentive staff withsuccess year on year. All complemented by work of Vermont’s finest bear maker renowned Scots fiddler Paul Anderson.attentive staff and a wealth of delectable - Terry John Woods, who crafted a won-indulgences to enrich the afternoon of the derful threesome of larger bears – Tiller, From Vermont to all corners of theguests – and teddy bears alike! Rider and Ships. Ships being the favourite United States, central to the anticipation of the trio, enchantingly poised, his sea of guests and customers alike, were the Silly Bears little haven was generously foam blue mohair lay in wisps like clouds exquisite pieces from our beloved interna-stocked with bears from the multinational, floating over the ocean, his character tional artists: Cheryl Hutchinson of Bingleexceptionally talented artist cohort. As enhanced by his hand stitched nose. Bears, as always, creating a lovely collec-wild hibiscus champagne cocktails were tion. Cheryl made five bears; the adorableflowing, the patrons, relaxed by Paul’s Murphy, only 10 inches, had the mostmusical mastery, enjoyed delicious choco- delectable chocolate coloured velvet paw-late dipped strawberries whilst devoting pads and was grouped together in a play-their attention to all that was on offer; the ful trio of boys with Jack and Stuart. Theimmaculate displays showing off the bears ever-outstanding collection by Kelly Deanin all their splendour. The champagne, of Mole Island Bears included Chandler,strawberries and bears quickly began to a luxurious copper-brown bear with exqui-disappear, along with the afternoon. site trapunto copper brown leather paw pads and a velvet gent’s waistcoat with For the Midsummer’s Day Event, tweed lining; a truly magnificent piece.ten of Silly Bears artists from around theworld had been invited to create a collec- Our European artists also created ation exclusively for the day. Julieann spoke wealth of beautiful creations. Hovvigsopenly over the selection of artists’ bears from Yvonne Graubaek in Denmarkgracing the shelves of Silly Bears for the were, unsurprisingly, extremely popular.Afternoon of Pure Indulgence: “As always, For the occasion Yvonne had made eightthe decision making process for the selec- bears, one of which was the second of hertion of artists to showcase at this event wasextremely difficult. Being lucky enoughto stock the global leaders in bear artistrymeans that my choice gets harder everyyear! The collections on display here todayreally sets the standard for future events,the hard work of the artists has paid offand we are truly honoured to be able tohave their work fill our shop.” This Midsummers Day Event alloweda fitting platform from which to launchand display the new artists we have wel-comed to our artistic team for 2014; everexpanding the borders of Silly Bears’artist cohort. From Russia (with love!)was the adorable trio created by ElenaKarmatskaya of My Bear Loga. Marty,Pinky and Miko each sat at a mere 6.5inches, all complemented by a charmaround the neck. Miko – the cutest ofthe three - felt and looked like a cloud;the marshmallow bunny wearing a duckegg blue ribbon with a trim of lace anda vintage wooden button sat charmingly,attracting attention and a chorus of aw’sand ah’s. Similar amounts of attention werepaid to the collection made by MelanieCulshaw of Bear Treasures by MelanieJayne. These quirky creations were acces-sorised by hand-felted hats; the mostfawned-over sat atop the head of Molly- a yellow nose of sunshine with a joy-ous smile was placed on her happy face.Flowers resembling a small cluster of daf- teddybeartimes.com 9

feature lEFT: The meticulously selected teddy bear collections. ABOVE: Proprietor, Julieann Bruce attempting the Highland Fling! BElOw: Silly Bears tranquil little haven.new design – based on the ever-lovable accompanied by all the delicious accoutre- this collectable teddy bear shop and how‘Silly Old Bear’, Winnie The Pooh – ments, it continually makes for an over much they enjoyed meeting up with famil-that graced the shelves of Silly Bears. estimable success! iar faces.Poohsome, in his fitting shade of honey,would be a welcomed addition to any col- Julieann expressed genially: “Both The magnificent commemoration oflection! myself and my staff are so overwhelmed the passing summer was fitting in title as by the huge success of this Afternoon of the afternoon was truly full of indulgence. Another hint to tradition came from the Pure Indulgence as year on year the event This midsummer’s event is a wonderfultrio created by Jenny Johnson; Edward, grows and is quickly becoming the most excuse wherein patrons are invited to aan endearing 12 inch pale taupe boy wore popular of our annual calendar. We cannot display of the new collections in the heighta sailor collar with matching cap, the thank our patrons enough for this, and the of summer in the hope to have a successfulcutest captain ever to be seen. The work many compliments they have paid to Silly gathering of our much loved teddy bears –of Karen Elderfield of Britannia Bears Bears and its exponential growth in the and people! The Afternoon was a splendidincluded five shy looking bears – the teddy bear world today.” opportunity for collectors to gather mid-stand-out being Hermia; with mohair the year and catch up before the start of thecolour of the night sky, her dusky pink There is something very comforting summer months.ribbon and collar added charm to her mys- within a gathering of people with at leasttery. Victoria Allum of Humble Crumble one commonality – in this case teddy As the hours quickly disappearedBears made one of the most highly sought bears – where a diverse range of people, (along with the bears and champagne!)after collections including Bartholomew, young and old, share a passion. Silly Bears everyone left contented with their day,a 20 inch, dense sage old gold teddy bear is becoming the prominent meeting place waiting in anticipation for Silly Bearswho was accessorised with a checked scarf for such fun to occur. As patrons shared next event which is held on Saturdaytied around his neck. conversations about purchases, talk also 6th September by way of the Autumn moved on to what they would be doing Afternoon Tea Party. This September, Silly The bear collections on display at the in the coming months; with a few diaries Bears is delighted to announce the pres-Midsummers Day Event are always hailed having already noted down September’s ence of Michelle Lamb of One and Onlythe best seasonally. There is something Autumn Afternoon Tea party! Bears, who is making the trip all the wayabout the mixture of new with old, be that from Colorado to Aberdeen! We hope thatin regards to our bears or our company, Through the annual events Silly Bears if you have yet to grace the doorstep ofthat always creates an event worthy of host, many returning patrons have formed Silly Bears you would consider doing so,celebration! The staff, annually, feel the friendships due to the sociability of the as it is truly worth the visit! TBTcombination of beautiful, concert-worthy occasions and the relaxed yet lavish envi-music; the gathering of satisfied collectors, ronment. Many noted with enthusiasm the comfort they felt within the four walls of10 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

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artist profile It’s a fur addictionWhat started in a school sewing class has led to a successfulcareer as a bear artist and, with their own fur fabric store torun, life for Emma and Mark Nicholson is very busy By Jill Mundy Enter a furry world where Emma’s Bears keep company with a whole host of other critters, including pigs, owls - even dragons! Don’t be alarmed...these are all of the furry kind and just a few of the wonderful creations Emma has designed herself. Making bears began at an early age. “I actually picked up my first bear pattern in high school and made a bear as a project for sewing class. It was probably a com- bination of the sense of achievement and the incredible support of my family and friends that spurred me on to make more and more.” Emma was just 15 at the time and by the time she had turned 16, she was designing her own patterns and devel- oping her own signature look. In fact Emma’s Bears has been in business since that time and was registered as an Australian small business in 2007. “I was very inspired by the online and magazine bear artists that I was reading about and aspired to be producing that kind of qual- ity one day.” Emma has been married to husband Mark for eight years and together they also run Fur Addiction, an online store selling fur fabrics and a few other items required for bear making. When you take into account the fact that they have two children, Chelsea, five, and Byron aged three, you begin to get the picture that Emma likes to be busy. She even found time recently to help out some friends of theirs in a very special way: “On March 26th this year, I gave birth to a beautiful big 9lb 9oz baby boy for12 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

artist profilefriends of ours as their surrogate gesta- so we can order an even bigger range! Attional carrier.” Surrogacy only recently present all the bear-making and fabric cut-became legal in Australia (2010) and is ting happens in the ‘granny flat’ below ouronly able to happen if the surrogate is house - which actually works a lot betterunpaid - unlike the US and UK. than it sounds like it would!” “Baby’s parents called him Zander and Emma has her own collection of bearshe is the spitting image of his very smitten to consider too, as she has collecting forolder brother Willem! I get updates from almost as long as she has been making.his mum nearly every day and it has been Mark said: “She ran out of space at ouran incredible journey to undertake.” last house so a lot of the newest bears are on the smaller side (3-6 inches) but hope- Mark and Emma have two dogs fully, when we’re set up in our new house,(a beagle called Oliver and a German we can set aside a nice space to displayShepherd cross called Indi) and three them all - and maybe add to the collec-guinea pigs - Custard, Kobe and Abby. tion.”As Emma is one of 13 children, she hasgrown up with a large, vibrant family into In the furry world of Emma’s Bears,which Mark, an only child, has been wel- the designs are pretty eclectic due to thecomed. wide range of critters and styles Emma creates. “We have contemporary looking Before setting up Fur Addiction, Mark dragons and owls alongside traditionalwas employed in the tourism and sales looking baby bears; vibrant rainbow-dyedindustries while Emma has an honours elephants and realistic looking bunny rab-degree in psychology and worked for bits. For the most part though, our crea-a domestic violence shelter, a homeless tions all look like they’re related - like theyfamilies housing programme and with come from one big, extended family, yetdisadvantaged young people before going remain different enough to keep thingson maternity leave. It is a huge change for fresh and interesting.”them both to be working full time withEmma’s Bears and Fur Addiction - clearlysomething that they both really enjoy. At the moment, Emma’s bears aremade in a separate accommodation belowthe house they live in. “We’re currently ina temporary rental property while we reno-vate our own home to sell it and hopefullypurchase a larger one in a more rural loca-tion. We hope to be able to have a biggerback yard for the kids and the dogs, withenough space to allow ourselves to buildlarger storage facilities for the fur fabric - t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 13

artist profile There is definitely a signature style evolution than a con- If you take that as rough-which was originally inspired by other bear scious decision.” ly 200 bears a year, that’sartists but has evolved over the years. “In 400 eyes...although thethe early days of bear-making I was heav- Like many other number varies dependingily influenced by Tracy Milligan of “Lilly bear artists, Emma on the type of bear beingPilly Bears’ and Jennifer Laing - but loves using good made and if it’s a custommy style has changed and morphed into quality German order. “It also takes a lit-something else - it has been more of a slow mohair to make tle longer to produce the her bears. Colour bears if it’s a new design of choice though we’re testing out.” is white. “It’s like The approved designs a blank canvas that are added to the already wide range you can do so much to! You can dye it in a of bears and critters available through simple pot of dye or paint it with multiple Emma’s Bears etsy store, Facebook page colours...or dye it using natural products and on the Fur Addiction website (see like onion skins (you get a gorgeous rich below for contact details). russet brown); rhubarb peelings (a very So when Emma and Mark aren’t mak- soft pink); beetroot (gives you a peachy- ing and selling their bears and fur fabrics, orange) or even Kool Aid (a soft drink) they can be found renovating their house. which will give you VERY bright col- They are trying to avoid watching TV at ours!” all costs. “Just recently Mark and I have got quite addicted to Game of Thrones Unlike other bear artists, the part of but sadly, we moved house right in the the process of creating a bear that Emma middle of the series and couldn’t get the likes least is rather unusual: “The sewing! TV connection set up again at the new If someone else could do all the sewing for place - so have missed out on the last few me, I’d be a happy bear maker. But sadly, episodes. We have to be very careful not you cannot have a bear without sewing it to read anything online that will spoil it first.” for us!” For anyone that doesn’t know the series, When Emma has forced herself to we’ve seen no bears yet but it does feature sew the various parts of a bear together, the most magnificent dragons... TBT and starts to turn it right-side out, that is when she feels the magic begins. “I love THEBEARfacts watching the fur fluff out and laying out the pieces as they will be assembled to get Emma Nicholson a little glimpse of what the bear will look Emma’s Bears/Furaddiction like at the end. I also love choosing the www.furaddiction.com eyes for my bears - just a simple thing like [email protected] the size of the eye can make such a differ- ence to the final expression.” With between three and four bears being made each week, that’s a lot of eyes!14 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

Delightful collectible bears lovingly handcrafted from the finest quality fabrics, specialising in turning vintage fur coats into heirloom bears. www.bearleighbears.com Email: [email protected] • +9 61 438016714. (Australia)The only race track in Basle.SWMB_Anz_TeddyBaerTimes_Rennstrecke_185x85mm_E.indd 1 Spielzeug Welten Museum Basel | Museum, Shop and Restaurant, daily from 10 until 18 Steinenvorstadt 1, CH-4051 Basle | The building is accessible by wheelchair. www.toy-worlds-museum-basle.ch Toy Worlds Museum Basle 19.06.14 16:26 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 15

VINTAGE BEARSChildhoodmemoriesMany of us have memories of our childhood bears.We remember their faces in particular. We ate with them, playedwith them and slept with them. They all have their own stories By Hilary PauleyChad Valley was the most popular The unusual cloth rectangular label is were the early Chads and, although he has and most easily accessible teddy high on the teddy’s back, near his neck. It a label instead of a button, it does seem bear for many people. is old and faded and has been overwritten to me to identify him as Chad. His rattle They were made from 1915 in with the words ‘British made’. This may is also a sign that he was made by a gooda range of different colours, sizes, qualities well be from the Chad Valley experimental toymaker with original ideas.”and therefore prices. period. If you have one of these, please let us know! (1915-20) Cork filled Many Chad Valley bears are labelled. Pre-dating labels and buttons, andIf you are trying to date or identify a bear One of my customers recently respond-then this may be helpful. Does he have ed to the above request: “I have some made during their experimental period,any buttons or labels? There are a number information for you about the “British cork filled bears would have been pro-of different types of buttons and labels for Made” bear in your Chad Valley sec- duced between 1915 and 1920. Althoughyou to compare with your bear. Each era’s tion. I am pretty sure he is perhaps from similar to the Chad Valley bear designsbears have certain characteristics. If your 1914/15, the first year of production. The of the 1920s, cork filled bears have somebutton or label is lost then maybe you can very first Chads had a chest button with wonderful early features. Longer taperingdate or identify him by looking at certain the words ‘British Made’. This bear does arms, more pronounced muzzles, slimmerof his features and comparing them to have a look of a Chad, is cork stuffed, as ankles and rounder feet, with the absencethose described.(1915-20) British made label We have a bear with a BRITISHMADE label which is cork stuffed.16 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

m1we0hn%teinonoyoftuhfis adpotbellybears.com t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 17

vintage bearsof card inserts. The unusual filling gives between 1915 and 1920. Though similar painted backs and black pupils. Pads werebears the most wonderful feel to the touch. to the Chad Valley bear designs of the usually carded and pads and paws made of 1920s, the joints are external. Although brushed cotton. there were Chad bears with external joint- ing, I’m not convinced this is one of them. He has a front final seam which I’ve never seen on a Chad. Does anyone have one?(1915-20) Experimental stitching (1920) Early button (1920) Early button Also pre labels and buttons, and made ‘BRITISH CHAD VALLEY MADE’ ‘THE CHAD VALLEY BRITISH TOYSduring their experimental period, thesebears would have been produced between One of the earliest buttons. Typically Made at Harborne England’1915 and 1923. Although similar to the with button in the bear’s right ear, occa-Chad Valley bear designs of the 1920s, the sionally on the torso. Steiff patented “but- Yet another one of the earliest but-features on these bears are unusual enough ton in ear” at this time which may account tons. The Harborne button is quite hardto give some doubt as to the maker. There for the change in position. These bears to find. It is named after the factory inwas a postcard of a smiling little girl, a have flat triangular heads, large triangu- Harborne where the bears were made.smiling doll and a smiling Chad bear like lar shaved noses and smiling inverted Ythis one. These bears became known as shaped mouths. Their ears are sewn overSmiles bears.. the facial seams. They have clear glass eyes with brown painted backs and black pupils. The eyes are sewn into the head and tied off at the back with a knot. Their arms are quite long and curved. Pads were usually carded and pads and paws made of brushed cotton.(1915-20) External metal joints (1923-26) Early button Once more pre labels and buttons and ‘CHAD VALLEY AEROLITE Trade Mark’made during their experimental period, Early 1920’s buttons. One of thethese bears would have been produced earliest buttons and bearing the CHAD VALLEY AEROLITE Trade Mark. (1920) Early button Chad valley introduced Kapok (Aerolite) into the body of bears very early, to make ‘CHAD VALLEY HYGIENIC TOYS’ them more cuddly. These bears had verti- cally stitched triangular noses with a top Another one of the earliest buttons. final horizontal stitch/stitches. Good qual- These bears have similar features to the ity mohair was used. They had large flat previous ones. Button in the bear’s right ears on the sides of their head and amber ear, occasionally on torso, flat triangular and glass eyes stitched on wire shanks. heads, large triangular shaved noses and Pads were now velveteen, large and oval. smiling inverted Y shaped mouths. Their There were four claws on paws and five on ears are also sewn over the facial seams. pads. The bears were available in 14 dif- They have clear glass eyes with brown ferent sizes. (1930) Button ‘CHAD VALLEY BRITISH HYGIENIC TOYS’ A 1930’s button. This is the most com- mon button. By 1930 Chad Valley was making many bears in different sizes and18 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

vintage bears mon label is quite often found with the arm. The bears varied in size, quality and 1930’s Hygienic Toys button. It is a rec- price to suit the whole buying market. tangular white label with red stitching. Noses became larger, rectangular instead The bears with this label have the same of triangular and had vertical stitching features as the ones with the 1930’s but- with final horizontal finishing stitches. ton.  Limbs were chubby. Brushed cotton and velveteen pads and paws were replaced by rexine, which had a leather look. Pads and paws had the ‘four on paw, five on pad’ stitching and sometimes no stitching at all.of different qualities and price ranges. (1931) Peacock Label (1953) Royal Warrant QueenThey were still quite distinctive, with their ‘HYGIENIC TOYS MADE IN ENGLAND Mother Labellarge noses, largely kapok stuffed bodies, FOR PEACOCK’S STORES’chubby limbs and reinforced carded pads. The Chad Valley Co Ltd. ByMost had a rectangular white label with This is a very hard to find label. Appointment. Toy Makers to HM Queenred writing on their foot CHAD VALLEY bought Peacock Stores Elizabeth Queen Mother. in 1931 and continued to make bears in(1930) Green Label their name for a short while, with their When our present Queen came to the‘CHAD VALLEY MAGNA SERIES own Peacock label. The bears are very throne, the wording had to change toHARBORNE ENGLAND’ similar to Chad Valley’s own bears. They ‘Queen Elizabeth Queen Mother’. The had the Magna style horizontal nose, large label was still blue printing on white, still Rare ‘Green’ label. White label with cupped ears and amber glass eyes. with the coat-of-arms and still attached togreen writing. Harborne is the area in the foot with zigzag stitching. SecondaryBirmingham where the main factory was. (1938-53) Royal Warrant Queen labels were still also present.Magna bears have horizontal nose stitch- Labeling, wide set glass eyes, unshaved muzzles Bears in the late fifties sometimes hadand three stitches to paws and pads. In 1938 the company received the only the label stitched into a seam. There Queen’s approval as the Royal children was now a huge variety of sizes, colours,(1930) Red Label had Chad Valley bears. “The Chad Valley materials and types of bears. Arms had‘HYGIENIC TOYS MADE IN ENGLAND Co Ltd. By appointment. Toy Makers to become shorter, eyes plastic and nosesBY CHAD VALLEY Co Ltd’ HM The Queen” sometimes moulded plastic too. Quite often there was no pad or paw stitching. Red Label 1930. This relatively com- At this time Chad Valley, a large and The Second World War, with its shortage well established company, became toy of materials, meant that faces and noses makers to the Queen. The square labels were also flatter, to save on materials. were usually found under the foot, white with blue printing, with the Royal Coat of The dating and identifying of bears is Arms on it. They were usually attached tricky even for the professionals. There are with machine sewing. There was quite always exceptions to every rule! However, often a second rectangular label attached Chad Valley bears were so often labelled with the short end sewn into the bear’s and are quite distinctive. Repairs over the chest seam or in the side seam under the years, particularly to noses, make the job more difficult. There are many books and more latterly websites to help you. Good luck! TBT •Hilary Pauley, Grandmas Teddies www.teddybear-museum.co.uk t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 19

AUCTION PREVIEWCchHoOicICeEsS, c…hoices,There is so much to tempt you in theAugust Bear Sale at Vectis! By Joanne McDonald, Vectis AuctionsI f variety is the spice of life, then the by US teddy Old Steiff and Bing August 29th Doll and Teddy Bear bear collector Skating bear Sale at Vectis will certainly be full of and author Dee flavour! Hockenberry. 001 of the Steiff There is an abundance of Steiff items, The traditional ted ‘Andrew’ bear,and it is difficult to select just one or two, is dressed in costume released exclusivelybut mention must be made of the ‘Dollys’. of the period of Betsy Ross through JennersReleased as a USA exclusive in 1987, the who is reputed to be the crea- Department Store inreplicas of 1913 Steiff Dolly bears came tor of the first American flag. Edinburgh. Severalin five colours, three of which are offered sample bears canin this sale. All signed on the foot pad Steiff limits are owned by a selected also be found which‘B. Steiff ’, they are extremely appealing. lucky few but imagine being able to own have unique SteiffThere are also several Steiff pieces we have the first issue in a limit or the factory sam-not seen before in a Vectis auction, my ple? There are several of these containedfavourite of which is the ‘Betsy Ross Bear’, in this sale from the inventory of retireda replica inspired by a 1910 ted owned Steiff professional Hamish Strang (see article on page 6), including NumberSome of the gollysection ear tags with hand written notes or annotations denoting No 1. Tag ‘Jenners them as mock ups. Andrew’ bear For those who appreciate the larger form, Deans ‘Magellan’ standing at 32” heads an impressive grouping of substantial bruins such as ‘Copper Beech’, ‘Barnaby’, ‘Columbus’ plus Merrythought ‘Winston’, ‘Freddie Farnell’ and ‘Alpha’. Any one from this grouping would be a statement piece in itself. Hermann Spielwaren, Russ, Gund, Ganz, Charlie Bears, Hermann Teddy Original and Robin Rive are all well represented in the sale, Jakas Golly label20 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

Would you Bear with Melike to bea featured Vintage and collectors bearsartist? “All Better Now” bear hospital services offered. This opportunity is available with Teddy Bear Times Bear with Me will be on stand 105 in hall 3 and will give you .the perfect way to show your creations to to our worldwide audience. Show your copy of Teddy Bear Times and receive a £10 voucher to spend at Hugglets Stand Call Maria on 01903 884988 or or in our Kettering shop. email: [email protected] for details. 22 Market Street, Kettering, Northants NN16 0AH Tel:07769174844 http://www.bearwithme.me Phylls Bear s Chair s Teddy and Dolls Bespoke Furniture [email protected] 077950 75532 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 21

AUCTION PREVIEWalongside a selection of international artist Deans, Pedigree, Merrythoughtbears and the excellence of R John Wright. and a wonderful Australian Jakas with original label. Wade, Carlton The oldies assortment includes a Ware, wooden, chalk and unusual‘tug-at-the-heart-strings’ early Steiff, 1960’s Dono Design hard plasticMerrythoughts, Farnell, 1920’s Yes/No adaptions of golly all feature.Schuco, Chad Valley, Chiltern and TaraToys. There are also not one but two Bing The depth of range in this salebears of note. The first, a spectacular red is unbeatable and it promises toBing with pleading expression, is sure be a busy one! All Vectis salesto command attention and the second, can be watched and there isa Skating Bear, illustrated in the 1912 live bidding in addition to‘Bing Toy Catalogue included Plush and room and telephone bid-Felt’. Although this active ted has seen ding.an amount of wear and tear, he retains hislithographed metal button under his arm. For more informa- tion contact Joanne Other interesting areas include a quan- McDonald or Kathytity of Felix the cat items, (the black and Taylor at Vectis 01642white animated feline star of the vintage 750616. TBTSullivan Studios), such as glassware,ceramics, figurines and plush versions. Sample Tag (handwritten) Teddy Bears’ best friend golly is wellrepresented, also with a large segment. Infabric form we have vintage issues from Group of Felix piecesBing button The ‘big boys’22 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

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PATTERN A delightful bunny like Freya is sure to be Frfeunywaith welcome in any hug. And like all bunnies,24 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m when you have made one, more are bound to follow by Jan Cardey, Pipedream Bears Instructions Trace the pattern onto a card Place your fabric fur side down and draw round your pattern pieces; make sure the pile is going in the right direction. Lightly mark the fabric with the open- ings, and arm and leg positions. Carefully cut the pattern out (slide the scissors through the pile to avoid cutting it). Head: I oversew the pieces first and then back stitch them. Place the two head pieces right sides together and sew them A to B. Carefully insert the head gusset; make sure you line the centre of the gusset up with the centre seam of the head pieces. Oversew and then back stitch. Turn right side out. Stuff head quite firmly and place position eyes where you want them. Thread doll needle with whipping twine and knot the end. Insert needle up through neck opening and come out at one of the eye positions. Thread needle from 1st eye position to 2nd eye and pull to form eye socket. Thread from side to side until you have the desired effect. Take the needle back down to neck opening and fasten off at the neck edge. You can add more stuffing to head at this stage to firm up the nose if necessary. Gather neck opening using whipping twine. Place washer and disc onto ‘t’ pin and insert into neck; tuck in edges and pull. Gather tightly so just the pin is sticking out and fasten off. Trim some fur from nose area. Using pastel crayon, shade eye sockets and nose area. You can use a soft rubber to smudge it into the fabric.

PATTERNYOU’LLneed right position) place then backstitch. Turn right sides out. Tie the threads a couple of times then ■ Piece of viscose synthetic silk Assembling fur fabric or sparse mohair, lose the ends in the head and cut off approx 1/4 metre excess. Repeat with other eye. Attach the head by inserting cotter pin into the neck of the body. It will be easier ■ Scrap of long pile mohair for Using the seam as a guide, sew a v if you make a hole first with the awl. Place the tail shape for nose using black perle cotton. a disc and washer onto the pin inside the Add a centre line and upturned v for mouth body and turn the pins down with the cot- ■ Contrast fabric for ear linings (X) ter key. and foot pads Ears: Continue with the arms and legs in the ■ Scrap of cream ultra suede for same way, using your markings to place eye whites Place one piece of fur fabric and one them in the correct position. contrast fabric piece right sides together; ■ 6mm glass eyes (I prefer the sew together, leaving top open. Turn right Stuff the body, adding some steel shot ones with straight loops on the sides out. to give it weight. Ladder stitch the opening back) at the back. Place a small amount of steel shot in ■ Black perle cotton thread for the each ear. Tuck in open ends and oversew. Stuff the arms, adding a little shot to the nose/ control gel super glue/ Pin ears into position and ladder stitch into hand part. Don’t over stuff the shoulders so soft rubber place. that they sit nicely next to the body. Ladder stitch the opening. THREAD FOR SEWING: Body: ■ Strong thread for jointing seams Stuff the front part of the feet. Place ■ Whipping twine for inserting Sew the darts then place the body some stuffing into the base of the foot then pieces right sides together. Sew together, add enough shot to give the feet stability so eyes and gathering neck (alter- leaving opening at the back. Turn right sides that your rabbit will stand up. Finish stuffing natively you could use strong out. the rest of the legs and ladder stitch the thread) openings. ■ 3 x 18mm joints for head and Arms: arms/ 2 x 25mm joints for legs Tail ■ Some stuffing/steel shot/soft Place right sides together and sew, pastel crayon for shading leaving open between markings. Turn right Gather round the edge of the tail with sides out. strong thread. Place a small amount of TOOLS: stuffing in the centre of the tail, gather tight- ■ Scissors Legs: ly and fasten off. Pin tail into position and ■ Needle ladder stitch to body. ■ Doll needle Place right sides together and sew, leav- ■ Position eyes or large headed ing open between markings. Insert foot Add a bow or a ruff around her neck and pads in contrasting fabric. Oversew into your rabbit is complete. TBT pins ■ Cotter pin key ■ AwlEyes: Thread an eye onto a length of whippingtwine; place the eye in the centre of thethread and tie the thread to hold the eye inplace. If the eyes you use have round loops youwill have to pinch them together with pliersbefore inserting them into the head. Cut a circle of ultra suede slightly largerthan the eye, then cut it in half. Using a tinydab of super glue stick a piece at the backof each eye so you have a white outlinebehind half of the eye. Using the awl, make a hole in the eyeposition. Thread one side of the whippingtwine into doll needle and insert into hole,coming out close to neck pin. Repeat withother side of twine, coming out close to firstthread. Pull two threads tight, pulling eyeinto socket. (Make sure your white is in the t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 25

Bears toBeCaorsllteocCtollect Hidden Cove BearsWe are stockists of: • Charlie Bears • Steiff • Deb Canham • Teddy Hermann • D’Lyell Bears • Teddy Bear china • T-shirts and more……………See the latestarrivals onStand 18 •Artist Bears Charlie Bears•Deb Canham Steiff and more www.hiddencovebears.co.uk [email protected] Tel 01480 860376 Tel: 01626 853251Email: [email protected] www.bears2collect.co.uk Tel 01480 860376 Email: [email protected] place where adults can become children w w w. j u l i e s h e p h e r d . c o m again, and where children can lose ARE YOU A BEAR ARTIST? themselves in a world of imagination. Official stockists of Charlie Bears, including Would you like your bear to appear in our the specialist Mohair Charlie Bears - artistGALLERY? one of only 200 stockists in the world!! If so send us your bear - we will take great care of Open every day except Thursdays - see our Facebook page for opening times. him - and we will photograph him on your behalf www.facebook.com/pages/The-Toy-Garden/137805059721993?fref=ts Or call Linda on 07828 190446 or email: [email protected] and feature him in Teddy Bear Times Ann Made Bears See you at Hugglets Stand 134 Hall 4 Email: [email protected] Telephone: 020 8202 3165 For more information contact Maria Fitzgerald on +44 (0) 1903 884988 or email: [email protected] t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

PATTERNt e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 27

artist profile Sfeullcohwlsovable The appeal of seeing teddy bears in a window 20 years ago inspired Karin Jehle to make her own and begin her journey as a bear artist By Jill MundyThey they were...peering through attended. I was fascinated by that first bear childhood bear too.” the glass with those ‘take-me- I made and was affected by the so-called As Karin grew older, Hermann was home’ eyes. It was the moment in ‘bear virus’ from that very moment.” 1994 that started Karin Jehle on forgotten for a while and sat in her atticher journey to becoming a bear artist and Karin soon began designing her own for several years. “I’m really happy that Ithe creator of Lovable Fellows. Passing a bears and called them ‘Lovable Fellows’. still have him and now he is sitting besideshop on her way to work, she saw several Before this though, teddy bears had always my bed. I feel that I have kept part of myteddy bears looking at her through the had a special place in her life. As a child childhood with Hermann.”window and it was love at first sight. “The she cherished an old Hermann bear whichshop held a bear making course which I was a gift from her mother. “I called him There have always been two different Hermann and he had been my mother’s sides to Karin’s interest - a scientific side and an artistic one. She chose to study art alongside physics and mathematics as her major subjects at school before getting a full time job in IT. This eventually became part time as she wanted to spend more time making her bears. Happily married, Karin owns two cats TOP LEFT: Antonio is one bear made by Karin that she couldn’t part with.28 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

artist profileas well as many teddy bears and other Nearly all of Karin’s bears are one-stuffed animals. “I have some artist bears of-a-kind. “I love the antique lookingin my collection, including one by Barbara bears which look like they were loved byAnn that my husband gave me as a wed- generations of family members and I alsoding present, and some replica animals love whimsical creations. But most impor-from Steiff but I truly love old bears. I tant for me is that every bear has its ownonly have a few of them because they are personality and is a real pal; a ‘Lovableso expensive. There are two favourites Fellow’. The bears have to convey thatamong my old bear collection. The first is they really live. I am happiest of all whena Steiff bear from 1908 that has lost nearly I hear from a collector that he or she lovesall his mohair - but he has such a cuteface! The other is a Bing bear from 1910 RIGHT: Her camel ‘Isabella’ was recentlywhich is in better condition. Both are sit- given third place in the Teddies Worldwideting on my desk and smiling at me while I awards 2014 in The Zoo class: Masterclass.write this.” Back in 1994, Karin began with tradi-tional style bears but soon tried out differ-ent techniques and styles. “For example,the bears I make now have got a doubleneck joint or eyelids or a needle feltedface...I’ve learned a lot by ‘doing’ and it’s acontinuous learning curve.” Now her Lovable Fellows come in allshapes and sizes, ranging from 1.5 to 24inches. “I make all sorts of bears: mini-ature, large, traditional, contemporary...and more. I love trying new designs andideas. I love experimenting with newmaterials, patterns and techniques such asneedle sculpting, needle felting, eye lids,airbrushing and jointing. My head is fullof new ideas and I love to create a largevariety of styles. In fact, I think that’s whybear making is still fascinating for me nowafter 20 years - that I don’t make only onetype of bear.” t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 29

artist profile finished him, he told me that he wanted to stay and live with me!”my bears and that they make them happytoo.” The bears are mostly made in Karin’s living room, with music in the back- Karin has a strict rule that she will only ground, while she sews. “Most of mysell bears that she would be happy to keep bears and animals are made from Steiffherself but admits that it is sometimes very Schulte mohair but I also love to tryhard to let them go. “But it makes me unusual materials. For example, the lasthappy when I know that one of my crea- antique style bear I created was made fromtions has captured the heart of a collector. burlap.”The most beautiful experience for me waswhen a lonely widow who had adopted Long pile faux fur in unusual colourssome of my bears, wrote to me and said is also a popular choice and Karin has alsothat my bears are giving her so much com- used mohair fabrics around a hundredfort, she no longer feels alone.” years old, denim and wool, amongst oth- ers. “I love to design a bear or animal There is one favourite little bear made and see how it comes to life from a pieceby Karin that she just couldn’t part with. of fabric. My favourite part has to be the“He’s called Antonio and is an old style face. It determines how the bear will lookbear. He looks very old - as if he was when it’s finished. I spend many hoursloved by several generations. When I had just on this alone. I have been known to stitch a nose several times until I’m com-30 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m pletely happy with it. A well made bear must look alive. It must have a soul.” It isn’t unusual for Karin to find that one of her creations looks like a real ani- mal or a person that she knows; “But this happens unconsciously!” Karin prefers to concentrate on each bear until it is finished completely before she starts another creation and currently makes between 30 and 50 bears and ani- mals each year. Her camel ‘Isabella’ was recently nominated in the Teddies Worldwide awards 2014 in The Zoo class: Masterclass and she was thrilled to be placed third.

artist profile Just for fun... •What is your favourite tv When Karin isn’t making bears, she show/enjoys several other activities including movie?reading (“One of my favourite books isTolkein’s Lord of the Rings”), cooking •gwTohhI?feaytLooyuorducoodfuotlhdaenbRdeinwignshveiasrniebdlweTohfoeurlHdaoybdobauiyt ,and photography. Having been a vegetar-ian for most of her life, she enjoys cooking •fTiIos’hdnri’seltoxcovaopemuetlpnodletvbo.iestithaeatepfamusbpclliienc,awtcinaitgshtlbmeuyoildrcimanmgoesthqraau.te,for herself. “I love travelling too but mybears are certainly much better travelled hisalIavfenydow,uiwtwhheyicroehus?fitvreanthdiendgsonwaoudledsyeorutthan I am! I’m very happy that many of •bwwAwbdoMhsoorhoIoiyufonmkaslkkdshytey,s.uobwmposuaebhtonyhaocadueentorlopbmdduspho,ylaoiodwmtstbkoosybheguiroaeaecrldnraaavadtpmeibssneh,eaardepsknrpwhuinwuyoofigftbntihhcoolmiyiasgtme?hhranwaaeettepnodrtryhoriliacydnge,lasoatI.rroteipdaenrd,them have found new homes in each conti- •You’ve just won thenent around the world. I’m also a passion- lottery; whatate photographer.” do you spend it on? I think it’s much more After spending some time making one in good health than to important to remainbear after another, Karin then likes to take win in a lottery.a break to make and enjoy other thingssuch as walking. “I love wild, coastal trails be at Hugglets, in September this year, for THEBEARfactsthe most.” the first time. We are so excited!” Lovable Fellows For creative inspiration, Karin often If you can’t wait until then to own one by Karin Jehlefinds herself looking to the past. “I get of Karin’s Lovable Fellows, you can find www.tbears.deinspiration from the wonderful old bears them on her website www.tbears.de TBTin antique shops or flea markets but theyare generally so expensive. Sometimes, itcan be a gorgeous fabric in an unusual col-our that makes an idea for making a bearfrom it pop up in my head and sometimesI look at one of my finished creations andthink about how I can change the patternto get a special character.” Future plans are simple. “My heart’sdesire is that I keep well and fit for many,many years to sew my bears - and that Inever run out of new ideas. We will also t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 31

FEATUREFfrRoEmEDfaOrMm toAnimals Asia is urging readers and bear artists alike tosupport a new campaign, saving the lives of torturedbears by opening a second sanctuary in China By Marsha Davison, Abracadabra TeddiesW e’ve been fund raising for the every day, causing extreme pain. Animals Asia Foundation Not only is the bile added to traditional for about 12 years now. It all started when some flyers and Chinese medicine but also to cosmeticsa petition sheet arrived in the post asking and hair products. Apparently, althoughus to read and leave the petition out for bear bile does contain some amazing prop-our customers to sign. The petition was to erties, the chemical content can be syn-be sent to the Chinese government asking thesised, making the practice completelythem to ban the practice of farming bears unnecessary.for bile extraction. There are still 10,000 bears believed What I read really touched my heart. to be in farms in China suffering dailyI was horrified that such beautiful, sen- extractions in horrific conditions.tient creatures could be subjected to whatamounts to torture and imprisonment. I Bear artists lead the wayread about how the bile was extracted by In 2003 I was approached by a smallinserting a catheter through the bear’sstomach and a pump attached. The bears group of bear artists who wanted to helpwould be left for anything up to 20 years raise some money for Animals Asia’sin tiny cages, having to undergo extraction project ‘China Bear Rescue’. By then the charity had opened a bear sanctuary in Chengdu, south-west China. Their mis- sion was to rescue and rehabilitate Moon Bears from farms which were being closed. The bears were to receive the medical attention they needed and allowed to live out their lives in the semi-natural habitat on the sanctuary. It was decided that the best way to go would be to auction a special artist bear every month and I was asked to organise the auctions. This became so popular that many other bear artists jumped on board and the auctions really took off. Since then the auctions have become a popular annual event, launched every December on our website with people from all over32 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

FEATUREthe world participating. Now we auction in small cages, poor diets and lack of vet- This new undertaking will result in anot only artist bears but teddy bears of all erinary care vast improvement to the lives of the Moonkinds, all kindly donated by bear makers, Bear on Nanning farm and having alreadycollectors and companies. To date we have The conversion of the farm into a witnessed what this has meant for theraised over £60,000, all of which has been sanctuary will take about two years but bears at Chengdu, I am hoping that read-donated to Animals Asia. the bears will have their lives immediately ing this will inspire some of you to visit transformed for the better by a substantial- the Animals Asia website, read about theirA new challenge ly improved diet and access to enrichment work and make a donation to the Peace by As well as the rescue centre in for the first time in their lives. Eventually Piece campaign. they will have cosy bear dens where theyChengdu, Animals Asia have since opened can sleep at night and an outside play area To find out more about the Nanninganother in Vietnam and more recently with climbing structures, toys to keep their bear rescue, supported by UK celebritieshave had a bear farm in Nanning, China intelligent minds engaged and a semi-nat- such as Virginia McKenna, Judi Dench,surrendered to them, complete with 130 ural pool where they can relax, cool down Peter Egan, Lesley Nicol and cast mem-bears, to convert into a new sanctuary. The and frolic with their friends. bers from Downton Abbey, please visitfarmer had bred the bears and extracted www.peacebypiece.animalsasia.orgtheir bile for years but had a change of There will be a clinic and surgery toheart when his daughter convinced him of provide the medical care that the bears If you would also like to be informedthe horrible cruelty of the trade. Animals need, especially as they will develop more about Abracadabra’s annual auctions,Asia is taking over custody and care of the problems as they age. Staff quarters will donate or make a bear to be included –bears, leasing the land and facilities. be built to accommodate the vets and bear please email me at: marsha@abracadabra- care team and the bear kitchen; a teddies.com. TBT This is Animals Asia’s new campaign; food preparation area where the‘Peace by Piece’ – the largest rescue of its bears’ meals are created – usu- ALL PHOTOS OF NANNING BEAR FARM PROVIDEDkind in the world. The undertaking will ally chopped fresh vegetables like BY ANIMALS ASIAmean a £3m investment by Animals Asia, carrot, cabbage and tomato withcovering the initial transfer of 28 of the grains and dog food and of course PHOTOS OF THE BEARS AT CHENGDU RESCUEsickest bears to Chengdu for urgent medi- juicy fruit. CENTRE PROVIDED BY MARSHA DAVISON ANDcal care, followed by the sanctuary conver-sion as well as budgeting for three years of Inspired to help JUAN LUIS SUAREZbear care. Existing farm staff will continue I was extremely privilegedto be employed and will work alongsideAnimals Asia employees and learn from to be able to visit and spendtheir expertise. a day at the Chengdu Rescue Centre in 2007 where I met Jill The bears at Nanning Bear farm have Robinson, the charity’s foundernot had their bile extracted in over two and our own sponsored bear,years, since the owner decided to end the Abracadabra. I saw for myself the bearspractice. However many still suffer health enjoying their freedom there and how hardproblems as a result of earlier extractions the staff at the centre work to enrich theiras well as issues due to their confinement lives. t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 33

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AWARDS REVIEWThe fifth annual NTBAA Bears, badgers and all sorts of other creatures gathered in the New Forest for this year’s National Teddy Bear Artists’ Awards By Mary MillomT he fifth annual NTBAA (soon wildlife. He has purchased and planted freely and have priority. There are several to be International Teddy Bear woodland of around 135 acres. This will pretty villages throughout the Forest, all Artists’ Awards) and Fair was held be open to children for studies and the with tea shops and quaint pubs. A day trip at Lyndhurst Community Centre public will enjoy walks once the woodland is not really enough to visit the teddy bearson 18th May. This attraction is getting trees have developed. The entry fees for and explore the area. Maybe a weekendmore and more of a following. There the badger class were donated to the char- stay will be for me next time. Apart fromare two halls at this venue and hopefully ity and Anne Brummer from Save Me the hotel and guest house accommodation,next year it will fill both. This would be came along to accept the cheque and give it is a great place for camping sites, manya natural progression for this wonderful out the awards. run by the Forestry Commission. Theevent. Several people I talked with are ponies think nothing of grazing outsidehoping this will happen, so come on all The competition entries were wonder- your tent. Herds of deer can be seen in theyou artists that are holding back and book ful as usual. I particularly liked the tramps forest bordering the campsites - but youa stand. This fair is already the best I and the gnomes. The ‘Artist of the Year’ may have to rise early.have ever attended and coupled with the winning entry was mind blowing in thefabulous competition, it deserves to be detail. It had obviously taken months of The next fair is not until October andthe biggest. I feel sure that Lesley and preparation before even starting to make if you can get along, I am sure you willAndrew, the organisers, will keep it both the bear. enjoy it. TBTfriendly and buzzing. Amongst the show stands I have noticed Class 2 The organisers always try to introduce that Artists are travelling from other coun- Hobo,something new to keep the Awards alive tries to take part. This is all is adding to the 1st place.and topical. This year there was a class excitement surrounding this fair. The sup-for a realistic badger. This type of class port for NTBAA has always been greateris a tough challenge for the artists. Many from abroad. I think the reason is becauseare used to making bears and do it very the competition is unique in that everywell but this throws a new challenge, one entry is judged. The standards are highrequiring new patterns and totally new and I noticed that if entries do not meritthoughts and it becomes a real test. an award then no award is given. This can only be a good thing for the collectors who I know this class was put in to sup- are now using the competition as a buyingport ‘Save Me’, the charity started by Dr. guide. The winners are given very nicelyBrian May, the musician from the band designed plaques that are proudly displayedQueen. He has started a project in Dorset, on their stands. From next year the com-where Brewins’ Bruins are based, to help petition will be known as the International Teddy Bear Artists’ Awards.ABOVE: Pic-Nic- Bears - Class 9, 1st placeand also International Best In Show The weather on the day of the Festival was like a Summer’s day. Lyndhurst is in the New Forest National Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and it is truly picturesque. The New Forest ponies are allowed to wander t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 35

AWARDS REVIEWClass 4 Bride &Groom, 1st place. TaOtteDnEtiToAnIL Bears, badgers and all sorts of other creatures gathered in the New Forest for this year’s National Teddy Bear Artists’ Awards By Robert McLintic LBIDSTT his year, rather than commenting questions raised were not because Poudre D’ours. Class 3 on each class, I will try to give a they had not won. However the Miniature Friend, 1st place. little more insight into the judging competitor then went on to explain of the more important classes. how their bear was more ‘realistic’ Accessories, when requested as part of theThe former NTBAA has evolved and than the winning entry. They knew class, are judged. Artists are now intro-developed considerably from its early days for instance, what the bear ate in the ducing ‘accessories’ that are other animals.five years ago and is constantly moving wild and how it had jaws adapted for the This was once called a set and single bearwith the times. Fashion plays its part and purpose. The only snag is, the class stipu- classes are developing into sets. This maybears that were seen quite often then have lated ‘an artistic interpretation’. be a good trend but the schedule needs toalmost disappeared. Anime bears is one be clear on this point so all competitors areexample where I found myself asking if I have raised the point about stating on a level field.I was looking at a ‘teddy bear’. I had to on the show stage that an entry may haveput aside my own preferences and judge been disqualified. It may help to explain If a class specifies a bear be dressedentries regardless of style. This I still try more about the results to the viewing pub- then I will also judge the clothing. Artiststo do and provided the bear is within the lic but it may also upset an artist who has should be aware that if they have boughtschedule for the class, it is given every lost out. I would appreciate your views on in the clothes, then they may lose to an art-chance. this subject. ist who has designed and made the clothes.The schedule The Schedule is getting more difficult At the beginning of the NTBAA, when Having said that, I must admit that to write. A class calling for a bear that is judging a class, I was first judging the dressed and accessorised used to mean standard of craftsmanship before movingone of the first things I do when judging I had before me one bear with clothes, on to the design and creativity. At thata class is to see if, in fact, all the entries accessorised with things like jewellery time, competitors could be eliminatedbefore me are teddy bears. Artists are or garden tools, depending on the class. because of things like poor quality finalstriving to design something different closures, ears sewn incorrectly etc. Not soand I am seeing teddy bear entries that Bramble Cottage Bears. today. The quality of work has improvedlook very much like dogs or lions etc. At Class 2 Hobo, 3rd place. and improved and now very few entriesthe moment they are given the benefit of are eliminated in the early part of judgingdoubt! because of craftsmanship. I am also still seeing entries that, The emphasis is far more on innova-unfortunately, I have to dismiss as ‘Not tion, design and artistry. This does notas Schedule’. This may seem harsh but apply to classes calling for ‘realistic’ orif you were a competitor that had comesecond to a bear that did not comply withthe class description, then how wouldyou feel? I have had very few discussionswith competitors over the results of thecompetition. One of the lengthiest wasfrom a competitor who had only beenplaced. They assured me that the36 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

Class 5 Class 6 Gnome Class 8Realistic Bear, 1st place. TraditionalBadger, Bear, 1st1st place. place. LEFT: BowerBird Bears. Class 8, 3rd place.‘traditional’ entries. To some extent a choice of fabrics. to design for the classrealistic bear has already been designed The entry awarded sec- rather than adaptingby evolution and a traditional bear will existing bears tobecome untraditional if it is subjected to ond place was also well suit. Similar com-too much design. There must be a place designed and accessorised. ments apply to thefor traditional bears in the ITBAA as He had a barrel organ, third place, a bearthese bears are the history and basis of the probably making a good liv-whole vocation. ing and was a little less of a nicely made and acces- tramp. The third place entry sorised and well deservingThe classes was also very well accessorised. of the award. Now I will describe some of the classes He too had his dog. The bear and his dog Class 9 was all about were both made from the same fabric and Admiral Lord Nelson. Two entries onlyin this year’s competition. I hope that by the entry would have benefitted from a were received, both excellent. There isgiving details of the thought process in different fabric for each. only one word to describe the winner –judging these entries, my comments will outstanding.not be turned around and taken as criti- The winner also featured clothes The Artist had researched the subjectcism of the placed or unplaced entries. designed and made by the artist. thoroughly before starting the project.The idea is to provide information for This included gleaning informationartists to enable them to make more sense I mention Class 4 that asked for two from the National Maritime Museumof the Schedule and stand more chance bears, a Bride and Groom. The winning at Greenwich, with drawings of thein future competitions with better under- artist could so easily have produced a Admiral’s uniform from his Savile Rowstanding. younger couple, dressed with the bride in tailors. This uniform was faithfully repro- white, he in a dark suit. That is what eve- duced, including the medals and other Class 2 called for a tramp or hobo ryone would expect for such a class. The regalia. The fabric choice was right anddressed and accessorised. The winner was artist had designed an older couple and featured grey hair. His eye orbit showed with clever choice of fabrics had portrayed the damage received during one of his sent from Australia by Artist, Kay exactly that. The stature of the bears and conflicts. Cooper. The tramp their dress was exactly right. After the judging I bear was very well discovered that the win- designed and In Class 6 we were treated to gnomes. ning artist was Nicole made. His Again it is surprising how different art- Woodward who resides clothes were a ists from different countries will respond in France. Her winning bit dirty and in the same way. Both the winner and the entry went on to win her dishevelled second featured needle felting. They were the title ‘International along with his both presented on a base area and both Artist of the Year’ worn boots. featured other creatures as accessories. from the NTBAA. The accessories This class is an example of how sets are Congratulations to developing within the Schedule. Nicole and I hope we included a lighted bra- have the privilege of zier to keep him warm The winner scored heavily because the seeing many more of - a novel idea - and main bear had been designed specifically her sculptures. She also he was accompanied for the class. The accessories were novel paints and has since by his dog. The dog and very well crafted. The second placed been given an award in had character and was bear was an excellent attempt but the bear Paris for her painting. TBT was a ‘typical’ bear that could have been made with a good dressed in a different outfit and submitted for a different class. Competition is getting Class 7 Dragon, 1st place. to such a high standard that artists need

artist profileYaroeYoonBethaersup LaLaLife is all about ups and downs and for designer T hink about the yoyo for a momentYolanda Levy, teddy bears helped her on the - it goes down but bounces backway up then stuck around up again. Many bear artists seem to find themselves creating bears By Carrie Brooks as a result of being knocked down in life, metaphorically speaking. The creative Bosco process is their way back up; their means of surviving whatever it was that took38 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m them down. Yolanda Levy of YoYo Bears is a great example of how making bears has helped her through a difficult time. She has been in the teddy bear industry for over 21 years now but was previously a Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriff Police Officer. “I loved what I did as a police officer because I was able to interact and help people on a daily basis. I stepped into a career that was very male dominated and very hard for females. The training I had to go through to become an officer was equivalent to being in the military. I was one of the few females that were able to get through a very tough training pro- gramme.” Sadly, Yolanda was forced to retire after 14 years due to injuries sustained ‘on the job’ - a devastating end to her career. In 1992 she became quite ill as a result of these injuries and was bedridden for more than a year. “The only comfort I got was when I hugged a teddy bear that my fam- ily gave me in order to cheer me up. The little bear was a great comforter. When I was finally feeling well enough to sit up, I decided to make bears that would cheer me up and make me laugh.” Yolanda now makes her bears full time. “It is my job and what a fun job it is, to

artist profileKoKowake up every day and ‘play’ with teddy Bavol variety - her husband is allergic to dogbears!” The ‘smile’ factor is still very hair. She has been married to Robert forimportant. “My bears are a cross between my sewing table - but I would not have it 23 years and they have two grown uptraditional and whimsical. They all have any other way. I do have a television that I children and five grandchildren ranginglots of detail and character that will either watch while I’m working.” from age eight to 25. The dogs are all raremake you smile or laugh. I love having breeds: JaJa is a female American Hairlessfun coming up with new designs.” Each Yolanda is happy to have her dogs in Terrier, Quechua and Mercury are bothbear is a one-of-a-kind. “I don’t like mak- the studio as they are all of the hairless Peruvian Hairless males and they have aing a bear design more than once and I puppy, Peanut, who is a Chinese Crestedwant my collectors to have a bear that no Hairless.other collector will have. That way thebear becomes very special to the collector.” When she isn’t concentrating on mak- ing bears, Yolanda has a keen interest in YoYo Bears are created in Yolanda’s educational programmes on television.home. “I have a room in my house that I “I’m a seeker of knowledge. I love to learnturned in to my bear studio. It gets a lit- something new, as well as exposing myselftle crowded with my four dogs lounging to other things that happen in differentin there every time I go into the studio to parts of the world. I also like teachingwork. It’s also a little hard stepping over my 13 year old grandson how to makedogs when I go from the cutting table to different craft projects from clay.” And of course it goes without saying that she Bello enjoys walking. “I like to walk all of my four dogs at the same time. I also enjoy a hike in the wildlife preserve, watching science fiction movies and spending time with my husband. I am an avid romance reader too.” Walking is good thinking time, perfect for coming up with a new bear design. “I get inspiration from things in every day life and I daydream like a child. I see bear designs in my head and I visualise the finished bear. The only thing I cannot see is the finished face. It might be strange but I really do see the end product. My t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 39

artist profile Little Tiegehusband is amazed that I can take a pile of to make bear designs that are Ragnarfabric and make it into a teddy bear. I will more polished. I use a lot ofsit down and create the pattern without a advanced techniques today that She currently makes between 30 and 40test design - I just go straight to the fur were not incorporated into my teddy bears each year. “It usually takes methat I intend to use.” earlier designs.” two to three weeks to complete a bear and I’m a stickler when it comes to details. If While the fabric may be mohair, alpaca If she could get away I do not like the design, I will start overor Tissavel fur, sourced from the UK, without jointing, stuffing on the parts that I am not happy with. If Ithere are some things that you will always and doing the leather paw wouldn’t purchase the bear myself then Ifind on a YoYo Bear. “I always design pads, Yolanda would be a very happy bear won’t sell it to a collector.” Yolanda’s Bearsbears with leather paw pads; German glass maker. For her, like many others, the most are available through her website and sev-eyes are there too which I sometimes hand important and enjoyable part is the face. eral online bear sites.paint for a specific design that I am work- “The face is what gives the bear it’s char-ing on. Then they will have needle felted acter - through the facial expression. That Perhaps these two factors are the mainfaces, resin claws, resin clay sculpted noses is where all the magic happens. I get really reasons why, like the child’s yoyo, Yolandaand they all have tongues.” excited to see the end product.” didn’t stay down for long and is deter- mined to be upbeat about making her Yolanda has had to adapt her designs One of Yolanda’s favourite creations bears despite her physical struggles. Shein light of medical issues. “When I first is a realistic grizzly bear called Ragner intends to constantly find new avenues tostarted out 21 years ago, my bears had who she recently shipped to a collector in introduce YoYo Bears to collectors aroundsculpted clay faces. Because I now have Switzerland. “I have kept several of my the world and perhaps design bears forpermanent numbness in my hands due own bears though because I just could not a major company at some point in theto a ruptured disc in my neck and lower bear to part with them. I have them in my future. TBTback, I wear special gloves that allow me studio, my bedroom, around the bannister and on my computer desk in my home THEBEARfacts Nutmeg office. I also own a few bears by other artists but not too many as I have to keep Yolanda Levy, YoYo Bears them where the dogs cannot get to them. A One-Of-A-Kind Creation Designed My dogs love to destroy stuffed animals! With You In Mind My favourite is a polar bear by Debra www.YoyoBears.com LuBien that I purchased years ago.” email: [email protected] If Yolanda has just one piece of advice for new bear makers, it is to know and appreciate the value of your bears. “Over the years I have struggled with bear shop owners wanting me to sell my bears to them at a 50% discount. If shop owners can’t understand that if I give them 50% dis- count I will basically be working for free, I politely decline to do business with them.”40 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

RESCUED BEAR CUBS Orphaned cubs go wild Three orphaned bear cubs are being helped by an animal charity to get back to full strength in order to go back to the wild By Holly SimmonsW ith the support of animal at Four Paws, is very happy about this contact of the bear orphans with humans charity Four Paws, three humane solution for Tara, History as much as possible, bear orphan station Siberian bear cubs have and Sleepy: “Now the bears can be Harghita is situated in a very isolated recently been taken to the bear optimally prepared for their later life location. Started in 2004, Harghita is aorphan station Harghita to be prepared in the wild. We are confident that they special bear conservation project, offeringfor their return to the wild. They have will develop well and really be able to orphaned bear cubs a home and help toadapted well to their new environment and release them back into the wild. In an areajust a few days after their arrival are happy be released to the outdoors.” covering several hectares, the bear orphansto be with the other bears at the bear Until their transfer to Romania are able to grow up in enclosures in anorphan station. There are 26 little bears in untouched natural environment, withouttotal currently waiting to be released to the the three little bears were accommo- human influence.outdoors, including the new arrivals. dated short term at the zoo Palic in Serbia. The zoo keeps two adult brown bears in a The timing of the release into the In May, the three bears - Tara, History well structured enclosure of approximately wild depends on the development of theand Sleepy - were found motherless in a 500 square metres with bathing ponds, individual animal and typically occurs atSerbian village, at around five months old waterfalls and trees. But the cubs could around two years old. The young bears areand rescued by police. The local ministry not stay there. “The continuous contact fitted with a transmitter and freed into theimmediately contacted Four Paws for help. with visitors to the zoo would destroy their wooded hills, where they can be monitoredAs there is currently no special establish- chance to be released into the wild one further. The bears remain in the posses-ment for the rehabilitation of bear orphans day” said Hertwig. “Therefore we aimed sion of the Serbian State and after theirin Serbia, Four Paws offered to take the to bring them to Harghita as soon as pos- rehabilitation, in about two years, they willcubs to bear orphan station Harghita in sible.” be released in the wild there. TBTRomania. Carsten Hertwig, bear expert When they arrived there, they were t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 41 very small and skinny. Tara, the smallest of the three, weighed just under 3kg. It is assumed that the mother of the cubs was killed by poachers or chased away. The bears have already recovered a little, are eating well and are very playful. To minimise the The continuous contact with visitors‘to the zoo would destroy their chance’to be released into the wild one day.

FEATUREFrom littlehugs...The magic of a Hugglets fair has beenexperienced by many but how did it all begin?Perhaps not in the way you would imagine By Irene JackmanIt’s hard for us to believe that in planned to make, the term ‘hug of teddy Scouts, so he had the idea of making a 2015 we’ll be celebrating the 30th bears’ having been recently popularised in directory specifically for bear businesses. anniversary of setting up our business a book of that name, published in 1984 by We distributed leaflets at the fairs we Hugglets. Many people think of the the famous British actor and teddy bear attended and did extensive research, cul-name Hugglets being synonymous with collector Peter Bull. Credit is also due to minating in the publication of the firstour Festivals held twice a year in London, some close friends who bade farewell to Teddy Bear Guide, in 1987. This was verybut things were very different in the us one evening by giving us a small hug well received and we were very encour-beginning. and one of them jokingly referred to it as aged to sell 800 copies in the first few a huglet - which set Glenn thinking as we weeks alone, through a small write-up in Our adventures in the teddy bear world wandered home. Woman’s Weekly. It’s now become a staplestarted soon after Glenn and I first mar- part of the bear scene in the UK and theried. We knew we wanted to go into busi- Spreading the word next Guide, which we’re just starting toness together and Glenn, having grown up Something we discovered very quickly work on, will be the 28th annual edition!with parents who ran a dolls’ hospital andwere dealers in antique toys, suggested was that there were no regular magazines It was a very natural progression fromtoymaking would be an interesting avenue or fairs for teddy bear collectors. We producing the Guide - which aims toto explore. Glenn’s parents pointed out to attended various craft fairs and the Earlsus the growing trend in the USA for mod- Court Toy Fair, and advertised in general ABOVE: Glen and Irene Jackman, organisersern collectable teddy bears and so early craft magazines, but found that only a of the infamous Hugglets Winter Bearfestin 1985 we launched our business, each small percentage of those interested in and Teddies festivals.with our own skills – myself making teddy crafts were also interested in bears. BELOW LEFT: Glenn at Earls Court Toybears and Glenn wooden dolls houses. Fair 1987. Glenn has always enjoyed being BELOW: Irene at Brighton Craft Fair Our business name Hugglets originally involved in publications from his teen- Christmas 1985.referred to the small family of bears we age years, producing a newsletter for the42 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

FEATUREbring together bear businesses and bear tors will be from abroad. This September ABOVE LEFT: Famous names Paul andcollectors - to providing a forum for them we’ll be welcoming regular exhibitors Rosemary Volpp came from California toto meet in person. Consequently our first from such countries as Japan, Austria, the attend the very first Hugglets fair.Teddies Festival took place in London USA, Italy, Denmark, Norway, Belgium, ABOVE: Michael Bond, creator of thein 1989. As you can imagine, we were Canada, the Netherlands and Germany as much loved Paddington Bear stories,extremely nervous before the doors opened well as welcoming exhibitors who are new signs a bear for our children.but from the very start the cheerful atmos- to Hugglets from Australia, Lithuania, BELOW LEFT: Flyer for the very firstphere allayed our fears. Collectors seemed Russia, France, Moldova and Ukraine. A Teddies festival.genuinely happy to find themselves in a truly international exhibition!‘bears only’ fair and who can resist smiling Penny, who’s a familiar face to visitors asin front of all those gorgeous bears? Although we welcome back regular she’s been with us on reception since the exhibitors at the Festivals, we are very first event and now our children are grown We were also very lucky to have some aware that visitors want to see a variety up, they regularly help out on the day aswell-known personalities at that first of stands. So as well as established art- well.Festival. Paul and Rosemary Volpp joined ists, shops, suppliers and old bear dealersus from California with two of their we are always looking for people who are I spend most of the day in the hallsfavourite old bears, Bo and Dearheart. new to our events and include about 20 at talking to exhibitors, doing my best to takeSoon afterwards they bought Happy, a each show. Anyone who wants to exhibit in each stand and especially visiting those1926 Steiff which was at the time a record- can email us with photos of their bears (or who are with us for the first time, althoughbreaker, fetching £55,000 at auction in direct us to their website) – we look for it’s sometimes hard to get close enoughLondon. Michael Bond also came along quality of workmanship, innovation and due to the number of collectors – by theand we were thrilled for him to sign a artistry, as well as supporting those who time I get to some of the stands all thePaddington Bear for our eldest children. promote themselves through the Teddy bears have gone!Gyles Brandreth, who at that time ran Bear Guide.a bear museum in Stratford, was also To be honest, I spend a lot of the daypresent and did the prize draw. Preparation and expectation admiring the amazing creations that the Our fairs take place at the same time bear artists have come up with. TBT Some exhibitors, such as Pam Howells,Sue Quinn, Sue Pearson, Asquiths, Dolly each year (the last Sunday in FebruaryLand and Teddy Bears of Witney, have for the Winter BearFest and the secondbeen with us since that very first fair in Sunday in September for the Teddies1989! Festival) and we start organising each fair a good 10 months prior to the event.An international event This may sound a little early but exhibi- Visitors to our fairs always get the tors appreciate having the time to prepare - and in fact we have to book the venuechance to see the best of UK artists and several years in advance!something we believe is particularly specialabout our fairs is that we also have a large On the day of the fair we all have ournumber of exhibitors from abroad, thus roles to play. Once the exhibitors are ingiving UK collectors the opportunity to the building and have set up their stands,see their bears in person. The Festivals Glenn tends to spend most of his time onalso attract visitors from abroad, both col- reception, greeting visitors as they arrivelectors and shop owners, which is a great (with chocolate if they’re early enough toopportunity for UK artists to reach a join the queue!). He’s on hand to answerwider audience. questions as they arise and supervise the prize draw - where four lucky visitors win In 1989 there were only two exhibitors £50 to spend with the exhibitor of theirfrom overseas but now, at Teddies 2014, choice on the day. He’s accompanied byapproximately a quarter of the exhibi- t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 43

HUGGLETS PREVIEW aOlFl tThHeEfuFnAIR Roll up, roll up for one of the most important dates in any bear lover’s calendar - Hugglets Teddies 2014 is almost here By Jill MundyW hen September arrives, it’s and burning the midnight oil, getting all time to enjoy the last warm their bears completed and looking won- days of summer, hoping they derful for the Hugglets festival. stretch as far into the monthas possible; children go back to school and Judging by the selection of talentedfor many, a sense or normality is resumed. bear artistry here, it really is going to be another wonderful event. Whether your I don’t imagine it is quite the same for personal taste is for traditional teddies,anyone exhibiting at Teddies 2014 as they realistic bears or something a bit morewill no doubt be rushing around madly contemporary, Teddies 2014 has some- TOP LEFT: Chairs of distinction from Phyll’s Bears Chairs. ABOVE: Beautiful bears from Stine Teddies LEFT: Tatania by FlutterBy Bears. BELOW: Bobby by Teenybears.44 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

HUGGLETS PREVIEWABOVE: Miniature marvels from Minkitzbaren.RIGHT: Patched teddy bear and friendLovable Fellows.thing for everyone. world will soak up the LEFT: Peanut and Cherrie Pie byA quick look at the atmosphere and gaze Higgys Bears.exhibitor list tells you to in amazement at the BELOW FAR LEFT: Something a littleexpect the cute, the lov- assortment of bears and different from ThReAdTeDs.able and the downright critters before them. BELOW LEFT: Tootsie from All Bear bygorgeous! Exhibitors and collec- Paula Carter. tors regularly attend the Hugglets festival BELOW: 48cm polar by Bear Bits made On Sunday 14th from all over the world. European bear from wonderful, dense 24mm ivory mohairSeptember, the queue artists will certainly be well represented, fabric from Jean’s stash.will start to build out-side Kensington TownHall much earlierthan the doors openat 10.30am. SeasonedHugglets visitors know just where theywant to head to for the latest designsfrom their favourite bear artists, whilenewcomers to this fabulous teddy bear t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 45

HUGGLETS PREVIEW ABOVE LEFT: A stylish collection from Les Petits Luteciens. ABOVE: Bear With Me. BELOW: Barry Badger - Little Piggies Originals. BOTTOM: A bright bunny from Jan’s Tiddy Bears. Stand 100A.ABOVE: Topping; a 12” bear from Haven both East and West. Looking further ing free valuations and an opportunity forBears in gorgeous pale lemon German mohair afield, you can be sure to find artists here you to buy or sell a lovable old bear or twoand long dense dark brown tipped plush. from America, Australia and Japan. Of on the day.Stand number 91A, Hall 3. course there will be many of your favour-BELOW: Vectis Auctions - ites from the UK too - visitors really will So what are you waiting for? A copy ofSpecialists in old bear sales be spoilt for choice. the UK Teddy Bear Guide contains a freeand valuations. ticket and can be purchased from www. It’s not just about the bear artists hugglets.co.uk or you can buy tickets at though. The exhibition halls will also host the door. Plan your journey now and don’t several shops and bear suppliers where miss one of the best days out of the year. TBT you can find the latest pieces from your favourite brand of bear manufacturer. And if you’re keen to get making a bear or two yourself, then head to the numer- ous suppliers who will be happy to guide you through the process with their valu- able expertise and wonderful choice of fabrics, patterns and accessories. Several bear restorers will also be on hand to advise you on your own bear queries and don’t forget to stop by Vectis Auctions who will be offer-46 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

GaArLtLiEstRY To have your bears featured in the gallery email [email protected] (UK/Europe) or [email protected] (US) ‘Emma’s Bears’drHagaonbdnysmmaoEwanhdadamwellirmtamwhaorentri.adsewft.udabFaeryueanlualflrdxrdorseamd,nMfbagiScuueunaxtonniorffniuekbynrsea,A.Nacveuralssoeii,ltcparmkahbhiltaliesaon,atlpsts,aoottwnerlns,s,

artistGALLERY Heartwig Button Bears By Artist Yolanda Levy, YoYo Bears Handmade, English Teddy Bears. A One-Of-A-Kind Creation Designed With You In Mind A special gift for all, lovingly created by Donna Hancox.Heartwig has 5-way joints, wire armature arms and legs for posing, needle Also restoration service for poorly bears. felted face, resin clay sculpted nose and tongue. He is 8” seated Tel: 07527192536 Email: [email protected] http://www.buttonbears.co.uk/www.YoyoBears.com email: [email protected] Pic-Nic-Bears Tam Braces Beautiful OOAK hand created bears & dolls Handmade OOAK bears made in the heart of Cheshire by Nicole Woodward Tel: 01928 788313 Nelson: Winner of NTBAA 2014 www.havenbears.co.uk Emma: New range of 100% hand sewn bearsTel: +33 634 959332 www.pic-nic-bears.com

artistGALLERY

artistGALLERYPIPEDREAM BEARS WILLOW THE LIFE SIZE BABY GIRAFFE Made by Jan Cardey Little Piggies Originals By Hayley Walker Bears now available at our website shop Lifelike OOAK Soft Sculpture Animals. See us at HUGGLETS - Hall 4 Stand 144A. tel 01612858254 www.littlepiggiesnursery.com www.bearsandpugs.com Email: [email protected] Tel: 01489 896119