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HNUEGWS OCFUPNDAEDWDLYDBCIENOALGRLSTECOLOTNIO’KSNINFCRGHOFAMORRCILTHOYAVRIBNLIAEGUBHEBOALMRESESS £4.99 $8.50 Dec/Jan 2015teddytibmees arteddybeartimes.comFREE PATTERN:Cosy, colourfulwinter knit 8PBAEEGXAETSRROASF●Bear artists ISSUE 214●Festive bears●Designer pattern

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of Witney The 2015 Teddy Bears of Witney (£5) catalogue isDottie (1920sreplica) now available.L/E 60. 14.5\"£110 Witney 2015 Bear L/E 100. 10\". £68 Nicholas L/E 75 Georgina Guardian 12.5\". £95 Angel Bear by Steiff L/E 1500. 11\". £125Witney 2015 Artie by SteiffCheeky L/E 1000L/E 100 20\". £29510\". £85 (available April 2015) All these bears are exclusively available from:Teddy Bears, 99 High Street, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX28 6HY Tel: 01993 706616 Email: bears@witneybears.co.uk Shop open seven days a weekPlease contact us if you would like to come to our Steiff Events at 7pm on Friday February 27 or 11am on Saturday February 28. www.teddybears.co.uk

teddytimbees arcontentsIssue 214 - Dec/Jan 2015Editor: Jill Mundy 6 A bear shop in townEmail: editor@teddybeartimes.com A charming new bear shop in Dijon, France,Assistant Editor US: Lauren Nielsen run by Christelle DupreEmail: lauren@ashdown.co.uk 8 Silly Bears autumn afternoon tea partyAdvertisement sales:UK office: Maria Fitzgerald One & Only Bears brings the ColoradoEmail: maria@ashdown.co.uk sunshine to the Granite CityUS office: Sara VixEmail: sara@ashdown.co.uk 11 Teddy talkDesign: Wendy Crosthwaite Keep up to date with the latest from the bear sceneSubscriptions:UK: support@ashdown.co.uk 14 The very best in the WestUS: usoffice@ashdown.co.uk Looking forward to the Cornwall Christmas Bear FairContributors: 16 Walk on the wild sideAndy West, Julie Shepherd, Monica Spicer, Laurent Bergmann’s talent for creatingSylvia Young, Sue Quinn, Joanne McDonald, natural looking bearsAmanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell 22 The Great Brighton Teddy Bear Event Save the date - the bears are comingPublished by ashdown.co.uk back to HoveISSN 0961 - 0944 27 Cheeky bears with attitudeDistributed to the news trade by Comag. Maureen Stringer of Teddytums reveals how she discovered bear makingTo reach us: 32 Identifying old bearsCall us on +44 (0) 1903 884988 Hilary Pauley unravels BritishOr write to: The Editor, Teddy Bear Times, favourites MerrythoughtPO Box 2258, PULBOROUGH 36 The story of Oliver LennonRH20 9BA Great Britain Lorraine Hutchins takes oneEmail: ashdown@ashdown.co.uk lucky bear out on the townInternet address: www.teddybeartimes.com 38 The Imperial Collection of Dieter Kaiser A special collection of Steiff bearsUS office: Ashdown Inc., went up for sale at Vectis Auctions68132 250th Avenue, Kasson, 40 Snug seasonal sweaterMN 55944, USA. Knit your favourite bear a cosyTel: 507 634 3143 jumper with built in scarfEmail: us office@ashdown.co.ukSubscription 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

42 Wild and wacky Westie Bears welcome Happy tenth anniversary to the man behind ‘Diary of bear artist’ and Westie Bears IS THERE something that instantly makes you think ‘Christmas’ I wonder? For some people it’s the smell56 Teddies 2014 of fir trees while others only have to hear one line Julie Shepherd finds a visit to a Hugglets from a carol to be singing the whole thing! For me festival is the perfect antidote for winter blues it’s roasted chestnuts. They seem to be one of the few food items still available at this time of year only60 An elephant called Audrey and there is something so comforting about hugging Enjoy making this small elephant with a paper bag full of hot tasty delights that are almost huge appeal, from Bearleigh Bears burning your fingers but taste so good.64 Bear Doctors Ann Reed and her friend Joy Tinkler have great The latest patients and surgery fun each year conjuring up a festive beary scene. news from Amanda and Julie They met when Joy purchased one of Ann’s cre- ations at Lostwithiel and have become firm friends66 Dear Julie over the years, despite not living near each other. The secrets of ear positioning and You can see their chestnut seller and other festive paw pad options galore creations on page 74.68 If at first you don’t succeed... The Cornwall Christmas Bear Fair at Lostwithiel Shelli Quinn blends life experience and is just one of several fairs happening in the next few determination to create Potbelly Bears weeks, covering all sides of the UK from Hove to Essex, not forgetting the Beary Christmas Bazaar72 Artist’s diary online show. Oh dear, Andy’s got himself in a right spin and ends up in a tangled heap Bear fairs are wonderful places with so many gor- geous bears to discover and perhaps, if you are very74 Happy holiday season lucky, take home with you. Julie Shepherd captured A festive collection of cuddly the magic of Hugglets Teddies 2014 and shares characters from Ann Made Bears some snapshots of the day with us.76 When opposites attract I hope you and your bears have a wonderful When a bear called out to Karolina Roga, couple of months and I look forward to seeing you little did she realise what lay in store all in 2015.79 A kingdom of bears and JillHappy New Year from the TBT team! adventurous elves Step in to a beary wonderland 78 82 My workroom at Cuddly Kingdom Find out where Yolanda Levy likes to create her beautiful YoYo Bears Cover photo: Mistletoe and Twinkleberry by Lynn Bowie of Madabout Bears

FEATUREA bear shopin townChristelle Dupre, owner of Un Ours en Ville holidayaccommodation in Dijon, France, has opened a charmingnew bear shop in the town famous for having a bear statue By Jill MundyA s the winter weather a guest house in Dijon, each Christelle or to purchase one arrives, many of room beautifully decorated and of her kits to take away and us begin to think accessorised, complete with make your own beautiful about planning our bears to make any visiting bear bear as a souvenir on yournext holiday. For anyone lover feel instantly at home. return home. TBTconsidering a trip to France, besure to include Dijon at the top Now Christelle has opened THEBEARfactsof your list. a magical shop full of bears, accessories, bear-sized furni- Un Ours En Ville. Shop in Dijon, self catering in Burgandy. A major town in the ture and many other items, all Email: gite-ours@orange.fr Web: www.gite-ours.comBurgundy region, Dijon was in keeping with the unmistak-once the capital city and has ably romantic style of Un Oursmany sights to catch the eye. en Ville.In the heart of the city, amidstthe mediaeval architecture, Some of the bears havemuseums and a palace you will been created by Christelle.find a new bear shop, Un Ours All of them are one of a kinden Ville. and sizes range from 30cm to 1 meter. Other items include If you think the name candles, perfume and lights forsounds familiar, you are not your home.mistaken. Owner ChristelleDupre is a bear artist who While you’re visiting, itturned her talents to running may also be possible to attend a bear making course run by6 teddybeartimes.com

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featureSilly Bears autumnafternoon tea partyOne & Only Bears brings the Colorado sunshineto the Granite City, splendid ‘Britishness’ withan injection of American charm By Jennifer CunninghamS illy Bears Autumn Afternoon Tea scented vintage tea roses, which in turn The melody was instantly recognisable Party on the 6th of September were towered over by tiered cake stands and no onlooker could ever turn away 2014 was the prettiest of pictures packed with the most exquisite individu- from a piper wearing his finest full tartan from both inside and out of ally decorated Edwardian themed cup- attire and playing the nation’s pride by waythe traditional little Scottish haven. The cakes... It is no wonder that this is the of ‘Scotland the Brave’. The man who hasdoorway is framed by wrought iron gates, most desired event of the calendar year at always fronted the building and welcomedwith wooden double panel doors which Silly Bears! Silly Bears guests is another loveable oldwere wide open and welcoming to all timer, resident piper Sandy Rogers. Famedwho were travelling from near and far to A ceremonial welcome for his unwavering presence at the Lonachbe part of this special day. From the tiled The opening of Silly Bears 7th Gathering and for his part in the Marchdoorstep, a room decked out in antiqued of the Clansmen, a celebration and a jolly,furniture, flora and, most importantly the Anniversary was attended by faces old, which has been a focal point of entertain-faux fur and mohair of the season’s finest new and, most importantly, it was a gath- ment for locals for many decades.collective artist teddy bears, was a true ering of the finest of friends for a fittingspectacle to behold. celebration of all things already achieved Beyond the doors, past the waning and and all those accomplishments still yet to waxing drones, in the midst of flowers Silly Bears are gifted with creating an pass. The day began with the traditional and friends, what lay in store for teddyair of extravagance and this can be seen Scottish call of the bagpipes, the echo and bear enthusiasts at this year’s event wasin the detail and ambience that encom- draw boasted by these unique instruments a sight seldom seen on British soil. Thepasses you. Artist bears were on display left no question to the gathering crowds enchantment of this particular afternoonin abundance, interspersed with vases and that something very special was happening was complimented by the presence of theoversized tea cups filled with the sweetest on Aberdeen’s Marischal Street. internationally renowned teddy bear artist Michelle Lamb of One & Only Bears. The advertised and highly anticipated ten piece collection from Michelle, which was in turn fronted by the leading lady herself, was a unique experience for all in attend- ance and a very happy tiding indeed. Michelle’s presence offered collec- Left: Silly Bears team with Michelle Lamb of One & Only Bears. above: Silly Bears team pouring the gin!8 teddybeartimes.com

featuretors first hand insight into her story, her above: Artist bears displayed in abundance ornately decorated base which was a fittingmotivations and her inspirations and fur- in Silly Bears Scottish little haven. platform for his grand stature at 24 inches.thermore, she was on hand to provide a RIGHt: Local cake designer Melanie Byrne Made from vanilla cream mohair, his facepersonal walk through of the collection in on hand with her delicious cupcakes. and ears lined with cashmere really shoneresidence. This was undeniably the hook beLoW: Silly Bears loveable old timer resi- through from the covering of his red woolthat was set to draw in patrons from the dent piper Sandy Rogers. felt fez and silk brocade robe lined withfurthest reaches of Silly Bears address rich moleskin and fanciful bead trim.book and quite frankly this could not have bears. The collection boasted all the cov-been better received on the day. eted and deeply desired attributes you The eyes on this particular creation could want from a One & Only Bear, were very realistic, with their careful This particular event had been two but of special note amongst the collection touches of white, giving them the qualityyears in the planning, which is both a were bears by the names Godfrey, Deena, of a wise and soulful being. The use oftestament to the popularity of this won- Fitz, Ruby and Squire. These pieces really magnets allowed this wonderful creationderful artist’s work and representative of exemplified the very best of Michelle to hold upright his personal oil lamp andthe commitment the most established art- Lamb and her instantly recognisable style the other hand happily grasped a book ofists have in terms of diary bookings and is complex in its diversity. Christmas carols.private commissions. Michelle’s careerhas grown around her, owing to her gift Godfrey is a large museum-quality The golden wisps of mohair and copperin creating the standalone work of art creation and was the most worthy of cen- garland of ribbons, flora and butterfliesbrought about in every bear she brings trepieces for the Edwardian themed dis- belonged to the captivating Deena, a 14to life. Michelle treats every one of her play. This beautiful hare was poised on an inch teddy bear whose almost magicalbears as an artist would their portrait, duly presence endeared the crowds; a faeriepaying attention to and scrutinising every quality both of enchantment and beauty.aspect of proportion, composition and Complementing Deena was the stoiccolouring. character of Squire, an 18 inch bear, whose butter-cream base was tipped with Michelle’s bears are truly exquisite. a delicious chocolate brown. The pheasantThey are guaranteed to be one-of-a-kind, feathers atop his velvet cap accompaniedowing to design flare and impulsive whims by a tassel, medallion and matching ruff,throughout the creative process, but more and with paws grasping a miniature brassthan any other attribute, this superb art- horn, he seemed almost medieval in con-ist is prized for her fine detailing and the ception. A companion to, it may seem,decorative adornments which complimentthe spectacular bear beneath so very well.Winter collection For the advent of the WinterCollections 2014 at Silly Bears, Michellewas asked to design a collection to thetheme of Edwardian Bedtime, groundedby traditional values, designs and distinc-tion, a collective showcase of classicallycharming and wonderfully warming teddy teddybeartimes.com 9

featureFitz, the jester of the collection; a 15 inch above: Teddy bear expert Deirdre Howie Jenny Johnson of Three O’clock Bears,bear made of curly, wild and densely mat- sharing her wealth of knowledge. and visiting artist, Michelle Lamb of Oneted mohair, which is complemented by beLoW: A gathering of friends for a fitting & Only Bears, who all played their spe-a triangular gingham cap adorned with celebration. cific part on the day. As an added bonus,rusty jingling bells. A cheeky character, his patrons who were lucky enough to snapcharming smile the creator of his lovability. lute crowd pleasers, were the Hendrick’s up one of ‘The Washing Day’ stars, will Tea Pots filled with a selection of elder- spend 2015 knowing that their beloved Equally as lovable sat Ruby. The per- flower gin and champagne cocktail, classic bear will appear on magazine features allfectly preened chocolate brown bear cub Hendrick’s gin with cucumber and tonic over the world whilst proudly flying thelovingly held a little baby mouse; wearing mixer and finally, one of spiced and iced Silly Bears banner!matching dusty rose jumpers, the duo apple tea.really were the prettiest of pictures. Silly Bears rarely leave any stone Towering over the flower displays and unturned and the presence of their close The single collective and spectacular teapots with equally eye-catching appeal personal friend, Deirdre Howie, is adisplay from Michelle would have been were the three tiered cake stands decorated wonderful addendum to this. Deirdre isample enough to captivate crowds at the with the cutest Edwardian themed figures the perfect catalyst and means by whichAutumn Afternoon Tea Party. However, of teddy bears, dolls and toys upon rich to enrich any conversation on site duringin true Silly Bears fashion, more is abso- buttercream icing. To make sure we were the course of the day. Deirdre’s wealth oflutely never any less...in accompaniment all truly sold on the experience, local cake knowledge into the foundations and fineto the centre showcase were magnificent designer Melanie Byrne was on hand to details of the teddy bear world is trulyofferings from eight of Silly Bears artistic enlighten guests with the delicious secrets unparalleled. On Silly Bears special occa-team from around the globe, each adding of her sugary delights! sion events Deirdre is always happy to val-3-5 specially commissioned pieces. Of the uate, and shed a little insight into, patronshome countries; Lisa Wills of Bears Upon The afternoon also saw the launch own personal bears who have come alongSoar, Victoria Allum of Humble-Crumble of Silly Bears new advert for 2015. The for the trip to Aberdeen, adding a realBears, Penny Roberts of Pennbeary and leaflet advertisement, which has had many personable touch to the hustle and bustleJenny Johnson of Three O’clock Bears, all revamps over the years of business, was of the day.represented the wealth of talent within the for the first time seen in a different way....United Kingdom with the most wonder- the stage was set in store, the bears poised As the day unfolded the shelves con-fully admired creations. in position, all to recreate the formal pho- tinued to empty and the displays became a tograph. ‘The Washing Day’ set featured shadow of their former selves but patrons From the United States contingent bears from world renowned artists, Lisa could be seen holding their newest col-were Tami Eveslage of Original Dolls and Wills of Bears Upon Soar, Kelly Dean of lectable bears amidst a sea of cream andTeddybears, Kelly Dean of Mole Island Mole Island Bears, Yvonne Graubaek of black Silly Bears bags which were beingBears and finally, from Russia with love, Hovvigs, Nadia Jacobs of Nadja Bears, carted all around the shop. This must haveElena Karmatskaya of My Bear Loga - been a very rewarding sight for the teamall represented the finest of their work, at Silly Bears. And indeed Silly Bears staffcaptivating crowds with their worldly could be seen to be rewarding patrons byinspiration, differing backgrounds and, slipping boxed up cupcakes into their bagsin doing so, proved to be the pride of as they continued to work the room flaw-their distant nations. lessly.The party The atmosphere of excitement was joy- As always, Silly Bears event was ous and eclectic, and it was difficult not to get caught up in the celebrations with a teacatered for with the utmost care and cup of gin or two, especially with the viewattention. The Autumn Afternoon Tea of toasting a welcome to Michelle and forParty was laden with the most scrump- a spectacular day’s display and entertain-tious and delightfully selected items of ment!food and drink. To get the taste budswatering, the formal aperitif and reso- At this time, Silly Bears would like to announce the next big event in the yearly calendar which will be held on the 22nd of November to help start the festive period off with a little pre-emptive Christmas Cheer. For this event Silly Bears have booked one of France’s up-and-coming bear artists, Laurent Bergmann of Lovable Bears, to introduce himself and his future work from his new found base within Silly Bears. And as always, the Silly Bears haven will be decked out as a Winter Wonderland for all to revel in the twinkling and sparkling glory of the Christmas Season! TBT10 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

teddyTALK ■ If you have any news that you would like included in Teddy Talk please contact us by email: editor@teddybeartimes.com or by writing to Teddy Talk TBT, Unit 5E, Park Farm, Chichester Road, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 0AGCelebrating Scotland NEW: Silly Bears Calendar Ted and his Master Craftsman Simon AT THIS time Silly Bears would like tohave been on their travels again and announce the composition of a wonderfulregular readers of TBT will know how and captivating Calendar for 2015. Silly Bearsmuch Ted loves a picnic! Calendar 2015 is a depiction of twelve differ- ent bears, each of whom will take the theme This time, Ole Ted has been ‘north or tell the story of the most prolific event orof the border’ on his adventures...bash- scene defining the month they are set toing the anvil with his hammer at Gretna represent.Green...and even got told by a rather burlyBagpiper at Gretna Green that he was As part of this great venture all twelvewearing the Stewart Clan Tartan. He is very participating artists have been given fullproud..!! artistic licensing in the formulation of the month with which they have been The Bagpiper was wearing a new tartan bestowed, producing a highly personalisedwhich he told us was from the Isle of Skye. and perfectly polished final creation, which has since been set amidst a superbly con- Having another picnic at Drumlanrig ceived, fully coloured, hand drawn and hand painted backdrop.Castle in Dumfries and Galloway, in hisnew deckchair, you will notice there are The calendar is sized 10 x 10 inch square with a double flip page spread for eachmany Scottish fares on his plates, washed month, presented on high quality paper in a high gloss finish. The upper page carriesdown with a glass of Remy - and possibly a the picture scene and lower page the month layout, with boxed spaces for each daycoffee...I think the deep fried Mars Bar was providing ample writing room for each and every occasion to be penned in with ease.even too sticky for him! Silly Bears Calendar 2015 is a delight to behold and deserving of pride of place Ps... He has ordered a bear-sized Haggis in each and every home in which it is received. It is a heart warming celebration andHunting Horn for when he next goes back to memorial of the finest in contemporary teddy bear artistry with the bears of today readyScotland...Happy Hogmanay everyone! and waiting to be the desired collectable vintages of the future; a reason in itself to covet these pages for the snapshot in time they represent! •Priced at £10.00 each, they are readily available on Silly Bears website at www.sillybears.co.uk or by phoning the shop on (01224) 582220 • Silly Bears are giving away a FREE calendar to the first 10 people to email editor@teddybeartimes.com with Calendar in the subject line. t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 11

TEDDY TALK Bears in Essex Treat your bears to some extra special comfort from Phylls Bears Chairs HEAD TO Waltham Abbey on 14th December for the Essex Christmas PHYLL HAS had an amazing year and she Lots of my customers have sent me pho- Bear Fair told TBT all about it: “What a year it has tos of their bears sitting on their chairs and I been since I was last featured in Teddy Bear really appreciate that - thank you! Now in its fourth year, the show times. You may remember I focused on has grown in popularity since the first chaises and beds for bears; well this year, My biggest seller in London recently was one in July 2010. with high demand, chairs are running fast the Traditional London Theme fabric (as from the production line. illustrated). I have just finished making the Ideally located within five minutes last one from orders taken at the fair. I have of junction 26 of the M25, the venue Each chair I make is hand made and dif- appeared at several Bear Fairs and the final has good public transport links. There ferent in its way, making each one special one of the year for me will be at Hove Town is disabled access and plenty of free to you exclusively. Fabrics are changed and Hall, Brighton on 7th December 2014. parking for exhibitors and visitors I like to use all sorts of different braids ie. within yards of the entrance, making fringe, beaded, glass, etc. The chair legs are I have an exciting new range coming out unloading as easy as possible and also changed, from wood to metal, and dif- next year...you won’t see another Bear Chair perfect for visitors wishing to drive. ferent styles too. like these. There a still a few tables so if you Although I mainly use upholstery fabric, I would like to book a stand, the cost have been asked to use softer types such as is just £33.00, including free exhibi- silk, which is easier to work with but perhaps tors’ tea/coffee all day! Please con- not as durable maybe. tact Gyll on 0208 366 1836 for more details. I have recently taken an order for ‘Mrs & Mrs Wedding Day Bear Chairs’...keep an eye Entrance for visitors is £1.00 out for pictures on my Facebook page ‘Phylls which includes one free tea/coffee. Bears Chairs’. When you’re feeling peckish, there The detail that goes in to each chair fas- will be home baked cakes and a cinates me; sometimes I can’t believe I have selection of fresh rolls with fillings, all been able to miniaturise it. The more straight- cooked on the premises. forward designs don’t take so long but are still of the same high standard as the more The Essex Christmas Bear Fair intricate ones. You won’t find any two chairs is a family organised show with a the same. friendly atmosphere. Exhibitors this year include: Bear Basics - fur sup- plies; Pipaluck Bears - minature bear supplies; Teddy Bears Home - old bears and valuation plus a selection of artists with OOAK Bears. There will also be a selection of bear-related novelty items for Christmas stockings. With so much going on, it’s sure to be a great place to get a few last-minute gifts or sim- ply browse the bears, taking your own special friend home with you at the end of the day.Bramble Cottage BearsArtist profile, TBT 213: correction:Apologies to Sue Munden of BrambleCottage Bears for an incorrect date in herartist profile. Sue did in fact retire form workdue to her disability in 2003, not 2013 asstated in the magazine. Bear hunt JUST FOR a bit of fun, we have hidden this picture of a little bear somewhere on one of the pages in this issue. Don’t forget to hunt for it while you are reading your favourite magazine. Answer will be printed next time! Last issue we hid it on page 73.12 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

Why not give your special bear a themed Bacton Bears a limited edition of 1500. Measuringchair? All my bears are precious to me and 22cms, his jointed head also has awere kept in glass casings but since I have THIS CUDDLY pair from Steiff have gold plated button in ear.been making the chairs, they come out and been proving very popular at Bactonsit on them for a little while and then swap Bears, Suffolk. Nicholas is made from They may be surrounded by icywith another of my bears...they all play fair. high quality jacquard fabric and is a seas but their cute expressions just limited edition of 1500. At 32cm tall, melt your heart. I think a bear in every room somehow he is five-way jointed and as a goldmakes it feel like home. What can you do if plated button in ear. •Contact Bacton Bears onyour partner doesn’t feel the same way?...Nothing. Just tell them they are part of the His little pal Finny, the baby seal, 01449 781087 or find themfamily and are here to stay! is made from white alpaca and is also online www.bactonbears.co.ukChristmas orders New kit from BSB Bear Supplies If you would like to place an order for a THE NEW range of kits by Sharon Aish of Bearly Sanechair as a Christmas present, please place Bears has been flying off her shelves. Her latest addi-your order NOW to avoid disappointment. tion to the range isPrices start from just £20.00 plus carriage. Bailey, a traditional style 16cm bear. See I can make chairs, beds and probably Sharon and all hersofas for your special teddies - just ask!” kits plus other bear making supplies•You can contact Phyll by calling at the Cornwall Winter Bear Fair,07795075532 or email Lostwithiel on 23rdphyllidaturner@yahoo.co.uk and see her November.latest creations on her Facebook pagewww.facebook.com/pages/Phylls-bears- t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 13chairs/

FAIR PREVEW The very best in the West The organisers of the Cornwall Christmas Bear Fair would like to wish everyone ‘a very beary’ 10th Cornwall Christmas By Jill MundyS unday November 23rd will see Bear Basics and BSB Bear catering facilities, easy the 2014 Cornwall Christmas Supplies will again be offer- level access and free park- Bear Fair taking place at the ing extensive ranges of bear ing outside and through- Lostwithiel Community Centre. making kits, patterns, mate- out the town, which is nowThis will be the 10th Christmas Bear Fair rials and accessories, as well known as ‘the antiquesorganised there by Teddies of Trenode, as giving practical advice. centre of Cornwall’.now joined by URCHINS Bear Shop(based at Tintagel), and it promises to be The Fair will have The Fair will take placethe best Christmas Bear Fair ever... ‘The champagne competitions between 10.00am andvery best in the West!’…so put it in your – for ‘the Best Christmas 4.00pm and will have adiary without delay. Bear’ (this is for an own friendly Christmas atmos- bear creation, of any phere. The Fair will again feature up to 50 size) and for ‘The Beststands with hundreds of teddy bears – old Christmas Stand’. The An entrance fee of £2.50and antique, new artist and designer - competitions will be open to all but will be charged for adults;handcrafted by top national, international voting will be by visitors only! The win- accompanied children underand local bear artists, with many from ners will each receive a bottle of real cham- 14 will be admitted for FREE! TBTCornwall & Devon. URCHINS Bears, pagne plus an engraved silver cup. ThereKingswear Bears and Apple Pie House will also be a ‘Free Teddy Prize Draw’. • For further information contact:will have superb stocks of new, renowned, The draw and the champagne award willinternational trademark bears and friends take place at approximately 3.45pm. Richard Butler - Tel: 01503 230851to chose from. In addition the Fair will feature and • For fair news visit: URCHINS Bear Tricia of Teddies endorse two very worthwhileof Trenode will charity stands – Cornwall Shop - Tel 01840 779009once again have a Hospice Care and Animal www.urchinsbears.comlarge selection of Asia’s campaign to rescuefabulous ‘oldies’ bears from captivity and in • For old teddies visit: Teddies ofavailable, as well as distress all over Asia.giving valuations Lostwithiel Community Trenode - Tel: 01503 230851for any ‘veterans’ Centre is a very popular www.teddiesoftrenode.co.ukbrought in. Dr. Cassy venue with exhibitors andof The Teddybear visitors alike, and the FairsHospital, now based have always been very wellat Trematon, near attended. The Centre isSaltash, will be pro- situated alongside the A390viding restoration (PL22 0HE), which runsadvice and, if neces- through Lostwithiel, withsary, ‘hospitalisation’ its main line railway stationfor any old and infirm a mere half a mile away.bears. The Centre has very good14 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

Give the gift that keeps on giving A magazine subscription to Teddy Bear Times makes a fantastic Christmas giftfor any bear lover wherever they are in the world. Order a subscription now fora friend and we’ll make sure they receive a specially wrapped little Hermann bear completely free, with a card telling them you’ve given them a subscription as a gift. Plus of course your friend or family member will receive six issues of TBT throughout the year. It really is the gift that keeps on giving.HUGGLETS TEDDIES 2013 REVIEW teddytibmees arPADDINGTON’S CHARITY BAUBLES teddytibmees arNEW CUPDADDLYDCINOLGLTECOTNIO’SN FCRHOAMRCITHYARBLIAEUBEBALRESS £4.50 $8.50 Feb/March 2014 £4.50 $8.50 April/May £4.50 $8.50 Dec/Jan 2014 teddybeartimes.com teddybeartimes.comteddy bearteddybeartimes.com teddybearamerica.com PRIZE-WINNINGtimesteddybearamerica.com PATTERNS PATTERN FOR FESTIVE YOU TO MAKE STEIFF ●Cuddly bear pattern BEARS ●Easy knitted dress OLD BEARS Restoration or conservation? ●Artist profiles SHOW REPORTS ●Bear doctors Two very popular fairs are back in business ●Teddy talk Make a bearISSUE 208 JOIN THE CELEBRATIONS ISSUE 209 ISSUE 210 STEIFF Tillington Bears and Bear Bits mark ten and twenty years of bear making Celebrate110 years of the bearsAMAZING BOOK OFFER • BEAR PATTERNUntitled-3115/02/2012 10:04 New range from Bear award winners with the buttons Silver Tag Bears in their ears01_TBT 208-2.indd 1 20/11/2013 13:29 01_TBT 209.indd 1 14/01/2014 15:24 01_TBT 210.indd 1 12/03/2014 10:57 Untitled-3 1 15/02/2012 10:03 Untitled-3 1 15/02/2012 10:04CNLAEWIMCUYPDAODDLUYDRCINOFLGRLTEECOETNIOT’SNINFCRYHOTAMERCDITHDYAYRBLIAE UBEBALRESSEESP.46 teddytibmees arHNOEWWCTUOPDADDDLYADCTINOELGALTECOCTNHIO’ASNDFCRHVOAAMRLCLITHEYAYRBLBIAEEUBAEBRALRESS teddytibmees arWNINEWWCUILPDLIAADDMLYD,CLIINOMLGILTTECDOTNEIOD’SINTIOFCRNHO,AMSIRLVCIETHRYATRABLGIAEBUBEEBAARLRESS £4.99 $8.50 Aug/Sept 2014 £4.99 $8.50 Oct/Nov 2014 £4.50 $8.50 June/July 2014 teddybeartimes.com teddybeartimes.com FREE:teddytibmees arteddybeartimes.com vintage SPORTY PATTERN style bear KNIT A CRICKET pattern JUMPER FOR YOUR TEDDYmtiapkinsg frieBEnBESdT s FPINARTSTEEIDRENE Make Freya the 8PBAEEGXAETSRROASF WITH adorable rabbitFOR APERFECT Charlie Bears BEHIND THE SCENESHEAD WITH DEDICATED ALPACA BREEDER Camping ted has perfect Autumn jacket summer holiday knitting pattern BEAR ARTISTS AROUND THE WORLD THE SCOTTISH STEIFF BEAR CONNECTION ISSUE 212 IDEAS FOR ISSUE 211 Hugglets Teddies ISSUE 213 NAMINGGund: the start of an icon YOUR BEAR 2014 PREVIEW ●Bear repairs ●Fair news01_TBT 211.indd 1 14/05/2014 11:04 01_TBT 212.indd 1 10/07/2014 12:12 01_TBT 213-2.indd 1 27/08/2014 15:31 Untitled-3 1 15/02/2012 10:03 To order your gift subscription call us on +44 (0) 1903 884988 or click the gift subscription link on our website at teddybeartimes.com UK subscription price (including free bear) is just £34.50. Print subscriptions only. O er/gift subject to change. To order visit Or call: 01903 884988 (US: 507 634 3143) www.teddybeartimes.com

artist profileWalk on the T hree years ago, Laurent Bergmannwild side had not made a teddy bear yet he is already becoming a well knownLaurent Bergmann’s love of nature and wildlife bear artist and has won somehas blossomed into a talent for creating prestigious awards. While he has alwaysnatural looking bears been creative, a needle and thread were not his usual tools at hand, so making his By Carrie Brooks first bear was a bit of a revelation.16 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m As an accomplished florist, he was more used to dealing with stems, wire and floral tape. “I still run courses for students today, to keep me in touch with the art of flower arranging. It has taught me the great rules of the colour wheel.” So how did the interest in teddy bears start? Apart from flowers, Laurent’s other interest was patchwork and quilting. “One day, at a patchwork and quilt fair, I found a pattern to make a teddy bear from fabric. I made it then decided to make another one from mohair, for my mother. She was still feeling very sad and alone after the death of my father two years earlier. “I discovered that all kinds of fabric - silk, mohair, alpaca - could come alive when made into a bear: the passion was born!” Since then, Laurent has worked really hard, taking courses, making more and more bears and learning about bear art- istry as he went along. Today, he still lives in France and is a full time bear artist and part time florist. “I live in Metz, an old city near the Luxembourg and German borders. This makes it easy for me to go to a German bear fair where I can meet col- lectors and find new materials.” Laurent’s flat is close to a forest where he loves to walk. “I like seeing and hearing the ani-

artist profilemals and birds and enjoying the scents of with needle sculpting, shading and other Laurent is not keen to be driven byall the different flowers and trees there.” techniques I use to give life to the face. I marketing and prefers to make a bear have studied a lot to get to this point but I according to his creative nature rather than As well as running his flower courses know I still have a long way to go before I cater to any current trends. The posinghe is a freelance florist for large celebra- create the very good facial expressions I’m possibilities, eyes and shading are criticaltions such as Christmas or Valentines looking for.” to his creativity. “I understand that collec-Day. Other hobbies, when he isn’t walk- tors typically like a signature look but Iing in the forest, include making prefer not to have a narrow style. I wouldpatchwork quilts, cooking and also rather make a different shape of bear, nosewatching movies. Many of theseare inspiration for his bears. “For or head in order to accommodate theexample, when I see a fantasy movie, particular theme of a bear. I mightsome design ideas will come to me envision a fantasy fairy for exampleand then I need to create a bear that or a wise, older looking grizzly.”fits in with those ideas.” Laurent estimated that he makes between 40 and 50 bears each year. As a new bear artist Laurent waskeen to try different styles of bears “I spend a lot of time with the detailsand this is still the case. “My style like painting the eyes, trapunto leatheris a crossover between realistic and paw pads, shading the face and needletraditional teddies but I prefer not to sculpting parts of the head and body. Thebe locked into one particular style. Ihave a huge interest in the mechan- evolution of my technique has givenics of a bear. I like it when a bear my bears more character and they lookhas many posing possibilities, much more professional.”which is why most of mybears have a double neck One person who has welcomedjoint, joints at the wrist and a the diversity of Laurent’s designs isspine with armature.” Silly Bears proprietor Julieann Bruce. “Julieann has found my ‘untypical bear’ However, the philosophy very interesting and has beenmost important keen to follow all my new creations. Infactor is that the the same way that people don’t want tobears ‘come alive’ eat the same thing every day, I can’t seeand have a great myself making the same bear designsfacial expression. every day, year after year. I need to do“I think the head is what I want, whatever makes me feelmy favourite part of good and feel free.”bear making, especiallynow I’m more confident Laurent has a large selection of fab- rics at home just waiting for the right inspiration. “I have a lot of different alpac- t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 17

artist profileas and mohairs hanging in two big ward- artists and collects some of themrobes. I like all beautiful fabrics whether too. He is still eager to learn fromalpaca, mohair or tissavel fur. I enjoy buy- them all and improve his own skills.ing them from fairs, where I can choose “The first bears I made were for peoplethem with my eyes and my hand.” Some that I love a lot, my mother and my bestof the fabrics are bought with a specific friends. When I see these bears today, Ibear design in mind while others are wait- can see the progress I have already made,ing for that ‘special’ project. “Sometimes which is encouraging. I like to travel awhen I look at a fur I immediately see lot and I always take my sewing box andwhat bears or animals I can make with it. some mohair with me. So, you might seeOther fabrics I buy because I love them me sewing a bear in the airport or at theand know one day I will find the answer as beach. I cannot be without a bear for longto what I can create with them. - my friends tell me to stop while I’m on holiday but I don’t consider myself to be “It is often more difficult for me when working. It’s a great pleasure to makeI have the idea first - then I have to find bears and I’m very happy to have thea good fabric. I have a picture in my head support of my family and best friends.”but am unable to find the right piece of Under the name Lovable Bears,mohair in my cabinet which is frustrat- Laurent sells his bears at French anding.” German bear fairs and through Silly Bears in the UK. His website www. Laurent has a room dedicated to his lovablebears.fr keeps collectors up to datebears but they can tend to wander. “I’m and he occasionally sells his bears on thelike ivy - I spread everywhere, so I tendto go into the office or another part of my ‘Sometimesapartment to make bears there aswell.” when I look Many people have contributed to at a fur ILaurent’s success and he is quick to immediatelymention them all. “I have taken a lot of see what bearsworkshops with great artists such as Billand Jean Ashburner (Bear Bits), Jenny ’or animals I canJohnson (Three O’clock Bears), GabbySchlotz and Michelle Lamb (One and make with it.Only Bears). I learned a lot of skills fromthem that I have adapted to make myown bears. I know it is hard when you arelearning something from someone not tocopy what they do so I have tried to haveworkshops with more than one bear artist.It’s good to have several influences.” While attending a three day privatecourse in Denver with Michelle Lamb,Laurent was given some advice whichstruck a chord: “Michelle told me not tobe afraid to share my knowledge; what isimportant is to promote the world of teddybears. I found that a beautiful sentiment.” Laurent admires the bears of many18 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

artist profilesite too but it is the fairs that get him most Just for fun...excited. “Bear fairs are always a great ••tswlhmAaweeokWeoowenIumfut.dhehnlmDeeaodetarktumfoaiburnmwninelen,eiiwungmtnhyysteoaot?iahgrwcluksrirssearaaahashprnotfeoeodnpblrriyodseenfoeasaaaouytcrtnbutwadIlrjireehwistttichotasotehtlktuai,sneedl,dwirbanewoehyh.gnaa?aalutakvtotesifuatoltevent for me. I love meeting the collectors. Father Bear, as I call them). I’ve already •One Republic; SiaI never stay seated behind my table - I am done some workshops with them where Ialways waiting for people to come along have learned a lot. They are so charming wisalaInfntydto,ouwhwhaievcrehewfsivittrehatnyhdoineugd?sown oaudldesyeorutto chat with me and ask about my bears. and helpful and give me lots of advice by My smartphoneIf a collector feels you are happy to have email. When I go to a German fair, we A sewing kit with internet connectiona conversation with them, their reaction is always have dinner together and talk a lotvery different...and I love to talk about my about the world and life of bears. A teddy bear kit so I could sew myselfbears! It isn’t always easy for me because a friendof the language but I can always enthuse “They have given me so much adviceabout the wonderful world of bear crea- about the best way to build the stand, A barbecue to cook ontion.” the organisation of the fair, the world of •A Swiss army knife bears...that’s why to me they are more than What is your favourite meal or You get the feeling that Laurent will be just teachers. If TBT readers have the recipe?making his eclectic bear designs for many opportunity to meet them at a fair, theymore years yet. His aim is to keep follow- will find beautiful bears and two excep- •RWdaomSoalfaitfwavtIeolftekerllilD,yeneiotowgnissrtunooh-democameyoe,waGyuTdoeolfidafm,rummtolhtdBnaaiilsynukyarceaoCtaodnuthkndrhreecirasfaehretnimmeoeadncoapdhJdsse.seiKynoc?e.napakelreera,. nI ding his heart, creativity and inspiration tional people.”and not to be swayed by what some of themarket think they want. “I’m just starting These sentiments and appreciation ofto learn how to make jewellery for my lady skill and hard work will no doubt con-bears. I would also like to learn how to tinue to inspire Laurent to create morework with leather to make birds’ legs - it Lovable Bears and become an exceptionalwill be interesting to give my bears some bear artist himself. TBTfriends...” THEBEARfacts While looking to the future, Laurentis very keen to acknowledge the people Lovable Bearsand events in his past that have shaped by Laurent Bergmannwhere he finds himself today. “I have Award winning artist bearsworked hard to earn this speedy success; www.lovablebears.frI have already appeared on the cover of aGerman bear magazine, had the main fea-ture in a French bear magazine and wonsome great awards.” Although only a young designer,Laurent has had the chance to win somebig competitions: 2014 •Judges Choice Award in the Excellence in Bear Artistry Awards; nominated for Public Choice for two bears •Toby Awards Industry Choice winner for one bear 2013 •National Teddy Bear Artist Photographic Award, November 2013, UK •First prize Novice, Euro Teddy, Germany •First prize Public Choice, Teddy Bear fair, Paris “I have been very lucky to cross thepath of some wonderful people who havehelped me. Jenny Johnson and MichelleLamb have held wonderful workshopswhere I have learned some incredible tech-niques and they are both wonderful, niceladies. I also had the opportunity to meetJean and Bill Ashburner (or Mother and t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 19

The place where adults can become children WESTIE BEARS again, and where children can lose Wild, Wacky but Wonderful! themselves in a world of imagination. Official stockists of Charlie Bears, including www.westiebears.com the specialist Mohair Charlie Bears - contact Andy on: one of only 200 stockists in the world!! andy@westiebears.com 01403 241381 Website coming soon. 2014 CORNWALL Closed Tuesdays and Thursdays - see our Facebook page for opening times. www.facebook.com/pages/The-Toy-Garden/137805059721993?fref=ts Christmas BEAR FAIR Or call Linda on 07828 190446 or email: linda@thetoygarden.net Sunday 23rd November 2014. 10.00am - 4.00pm 8A CROSS STREET Lostwithiel Community Centre, PL22 0HE (A390) SAFFRON WALDEN OVER 45 STANDS ESSEX CB10 1EX +44 (0) 1799 527222 * Artist & Designer Bears * Old & Antique Bears * Free Valuations, Teddy Hospital & Restoration AdviceARTIST BEARS MAIL ORDERSTEIFF WORLD WIDE * Bear Making Kits, Materials & AccessoriesMERRYTHOUGHT *Champagne Competitions and Teddy Prize DrawCHARLIE BEARS INTEREST FREE *Charities:- Cornwall Hospice Care and Animals AsiaTHE ISABELLE LAYAWAY Admission £2.50 per adult Accompanied Children under 14 FreeCOLLECTION For further information Tel:01840 779009 / 01503 230851HANSA TOYS SECUREBABY GIFTS ON-LINE or visit www.urchinsbears.comAND MUCH PURCHASINGMORE ARE YOU A BEAR ARTIST? Chatham Village Bears by Art Rogers Would you like your bear to appear in ourwww.abracadabra-teddies.com marsha@abracadabra-teddies.com artistGALLERY? If so send us your bear - we will take great care of him - and we will photograph him on your behalf and feature him in Teddy Bear Times w w w. J U L I E S H E P H E R D . c o m For more information contact Maria Fitzgerald on +44 (0) 1903 884988 or email: maria@ashdown.co.uk20 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

Brighton Teddy Bear Event The Bears are coming back to Brighton!The Great 2014Sunday 7th December 2014 Hove Town Hall, Norton Rd BN3 4AH 10.30 - 4.00pmwww.thegreatbrightonteddybearevent.co.uk Email us - info@thegreatbrightonteddybearevent.co.uk t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 21

BEAR FAIR PREVIEW Return to the GreatBRIGHTON TEDDY BEAR EVENTYes, it’s been a year since the Bears returnedto Hove. The show went so well that they’reback for good By Jill MundyT he Great Brighton Yorkshire Teddy Bear Event the show from Belgium, will Chairs will be on hand with Teddy Bear Event and a multi-award winning be the amazing vintage style their luxury, hand made chairs. arrives in Hove Town year (as Katie Rae Bears), clothing from Maddy’s Green Teddy Bear Bling will once Hall on Sunday 7th Katherine shows no signs of Decorations. “We are delighted again have lots of beautifulDecember. slowing down and has once Maddy’s are joining us,” said teddy bear jewellery for those again signed up an impressive Katherine. “Their teddy bear last minute stocking fillers. With over 50 stands, packed cast list of artists and exhibi- clothing and accessories arewith your favourite returning tors. incredible!” Apple Pie House willartists, stunning new artists, present their usual colourfulold bears, desirable collecta- A glance at the list of exhib- Whether you love modern stand full of bears, dolls andbles and all your bear making itors will have bears, traditional, old bears high class collectables and willsupplies, this year promises to many a keen be exclusively representing Rbe bursting at the seams with arctophile and such, or John Wright at the show. TheyChristmas fun, furry creatures very excited manufactured will have a big selection of thisand of course, teddy bears. indeed and, bears, The incredibly talented US artist’s as well as Great Brighton work. “We want to create a won- the fantas- Teddy Bearderful Christmas atmosphere tic array Event will have The Great Brighton Teddyand fill the Town Hall with all or artists, something forthings beary”, said Katherine making a you. And if yourHallam, the event organiser. debut at bear needs a placeHot on the heels of the Great to sit, Phylls Bears22 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: susan@bearleighbears.com • +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 18 Elm Hill. Norwich, Norfolk NR3 1HN Telephone: 01603 766866 CHRISTMAS OPEN DAY Sunday 30th November 2014 11am to 4pm Kelsey Cunningham of Kaycee Bears and Doreen Pyatt of Do Do Bears will be here with their amazing creations for an exclusive signing day. Save on your bears with Money-Off Vouchers - see our website for details. Or, if you are unable to attend, the vouchers are eligible for online purchases too. Seasonal refreshments await, so please join us if you can. We look forward to seeing you. www.bearshops.co.uk t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 23

BEAR FAIR PREVIEW foBTerrid£nd1gyoyBfofeuearnrctTroaipmnyceoes.fBear Event is more than Raffle. The bears, donated The Way of the Bear: Ajust a teddy bear show; it is by the exhibitors, will be book of teddy wisdoman experience for both art- exhibited in the foyer andists and collectors alike and the proceeds will go to The ‘THE WAY OF THE BEAR’ by Norman Silver and David Passes is awe hope it will continue to Alzheimers Society. recently published book that any bear lover is sure to want a copy ofgrow for many more years to at any time of year.come. The fair starts at 10.30 and closes at 4.00pm. Launched on 21st October 2014, the book has 94 pages of bear The fun starts as soon as Entrance is £3.50 for adults; photos and verse. All the bears featured have been made by bearyou walk through the door, free to children under 16 artist Jean Grogan of Little Scruffs.with the Charity Artist Bears years. TBT “I feel so lucky that they asked me if they could feature my bears. There is a story behind the book too. It was Christmas 2011 when I received a long and very enthusias- tic email from David telling me about ‘The Way of the Bear’, an idea that Norman and he were working on for a book. He asked if I mind- ed some of my bears being featured in it. Minded?!!! I was honoured. Many emails went back and forth and we eventually met up at Hugglets bear fair the following February. They were two of the nicest men you could wish to meet; Norman with his quiet genius and David bubbling over with ideas and optimism. Norman is a fantastic photographer who has a Fellowship with the Royal Photographic Society and we spent a day with him photo- graphing the Scruffs. Over the next few weeks he also visited some of my collectors in their homes, snapping away. The book was complete but getting a publisher was the next step and not an easy one at that. We were close on lots of occasions but not close enough. Meanwhile, at the beginning of this year, our lovely, optimistic, full of fun David was taken ill and sadly passed away in September, just a couple of weeks too early to see the book he would have been so proud of.” You can see lots more photos on Norman’s website www.way- ofthebear.net and if you would like to purchase a copy for yourself or as a gift, it is available through Amazon, priced at around £10. TBT24 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

Little bears freeto good homesSubscribe to Teddy Bear Times and we’llsend you an adorable little cutie lovinglymade by Teddy Hermann.One of these bears, worth over £18, will beyours completely free when you subscribeto the world’s favourite bear magazine.But do hurry. They’ll be finding new homes fast.Subscribe today at www.teddybeartimes.comand claim your free bearOr call us at the TBT office on 0800 One year magazine subscription435553 (calls are free in the UK) (6 issues): UK £34.50;Outside UK: +44 (0)1903 884988 US $66; Rest of world £49US: 1-866-606-6587 PRICES/OFFERS SUBJECT TO CHANGE & AVAILABILITY. OFFERS APPLY ONLY TO ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS. OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO SOME CURRENT SUBSCRIBERS.www.teddybeartimes.com

Mary Dowd Bears Bears toBeCaorsllteocCtollect ROLIE POLIE PUPS by Ericka Elizabeth We are stockists of: • Charlie Bears • Steiff • Deb Canham • Teddy Hermann • D’Lyell Bears • Teddy Bear china • T-shirts and more…………… See the latest arrivals on Stand 18 East Bend, NC 27018 (336) 699-4782 •Artist Bears Charlie Bears 001 503 508 7802 mgdowd@yadtel.net •Deb Canham Steiff and more ericka__elizabeth@hotmail.com http://roliepoliepups.webs.comwww.yadtel.net/~mgdowd/ www.bears2collect.co.uk Tel 01480 860376THE WOOD DEN Email: sales@bears2collect.co.uk Bear stuffing tools, hand turned www.bears2collect.co.ukin Yorkshire from quality hardwoods Tel 01480 860376 Pennbeary and finished with beeswax. Bears Email: shirley@bears2collect.co.uk ANN MADE BEARSHidden Cove Bearswww.thewood-den@hotmail.com www.hiddencovebears.co.uk Email: ann@ann-made-bears.co.uk 01367 252809 Tel: 01142 336148 hiddencovebears@googlemail.com Telephone: 020 8202 3165 pennbeary@tiscali.co.uk Tel: 01626 853251 www.sillybears.co.uk/ artists/index.cfm?page=52 ESSEX ARTIST Button BearsCHRISTMAS BEAR SHOW Handmade, English Teddy Bears Elphwood Hall Cornmill, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 1RB (Rear of long stay car park) 14th December 2014 10.30am - 3.30pm £1.00 entry incl. tea/coffee. Info call Gyllsbears 0208 366 1836 Currently found at diddycottagebears.bearpile.com or www.Etsy.com/uk/market/ diddy_cottage_bears Please get in touch at A special gift for all, lovingly created by Donna Hancox. Smithe20@sky.com Also restoration service for poorly bears. or message me on Facebook. The Old Needle Works, Britten Street, Redditch, B97 6HD26 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m Tel: 07527192536 Email: donnahancox1@sky.com www.buttonbears.co.uk

artist profileCheeky bearswith attitudeFrom teaching cheeky children to creating cheeky bears, lifehas been full of challenges for Maureen Stringer of Teddytumsbut a positive attitude has prevailed through everything By Jill MundyW ith a career background in in 1976. Between then and 2014 (38 “I did this for six years and loved the teaching, Maureen Stringer years!) she has worked in full time educa- work. Then in 2003, I had a very bad has probably come across tion. Teaching subjects such as history and accident while at work, falling head first numerous people with ‘strong sociology to A level standard, roles have down some narrow back stairs, with a 12personalities’ at one time or another. She also included head of department, head of foot drop, in a listed building. I initiallyhas certainly had much experience to year and deputy-head of a comprehensive thought I had broken my leg/shin by thedraw inspiration from for her Teddytums school in Peterborough. way I had landed. I managed to scramblecharacters. up and decided I was ok. (Famous last “I worked for two local authorities; words). Maybe I wish I wasn’t such a Maureen admits she has loved teddy in Coventry as a 16-19 Adviser and then positive thinker!”bears ‘forever and a day!’ and started col- later in Cambridgeshire as Senior Adviserlecting bears seriously in 1998. However, for secondary leadership and management. When paramedics were called,when her life took an unexpected turn, she For a time I was a registered OFSTED Maureen refused to go to hospital, ada-began making her own bears. Creating inspector which helped my work advising mant she would be ok. “One big lessonTeddytums helped her through a difficult schools in challenging situations.” learned! My boss took me home as I hadsituation and started her on a new career injured knees, lower back, hands andpath. Maureen also offered training to school shoulders. (I was soon to learn that the staff and governors and ran accredited NHS cannot multi-task easily and played Her teaching career began in Coventry courses in leadership and management. t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 27

artist profile did not speak English at home, and with serious pockets of deprivation and families newly-arrived to the UK, there was a lot to consider but plenty of scope to organise projects.” More government changes led to Maureen finding her funding from nine head teachers and nine governing bodies. She retired from this post at Easter 2014. “My schools gave me a lovely send off and I feel proud to have ended my 38 years in education, be the roles diverse and unique, in this way. My leaving/retirement cards all had a teddy theme!”a waiting game while I was referred to on a new post, based in Peterborough, Family mattersdifferent specialists for various parts of which would become the superb chal- Maureen lives in Peterborough withthe body. If I had gone to hospital on that lenge to round off her unusual career infateful day, maybe treatment would have education. “Working to a remit and with her partner Alistair, who has been veryhappened more logically and would per- government funds, I had to consider supportive with her bear making. “Wehaps have helped the outcome.” ways to deliver the aims of ‘Every child have been together 14 years. He has been matters’ for an extended schools cluster, quite an influence in both my love of col- Until the time of her accident, covering after school clubs, holiday provi- lecting bruins and, from 2004, in mak-Maureen had been a keen sportswoman. sion, parental courses, health and fitness ing them. When I first started makingDisabilities as a result of her injuries and community learning. Working in a bears, I chose the name ALIMOZ (ALImeant she could no longer take part in the community where half of the community - Alistair; MOZ - Maureen) as my artisthockey and tennis she had once enjoyed. name for making Teddytums as Alistair“In 2004 I started designing and making used to help with the jointing. Followingbears as a distraction; as a way of replacing my second hand/wrist operation I found Ithose hobbies I had been forced to give could do these tasks myself and I now loveup. I couldn’t sew; I was just passionate jointing bears! Alistair helps me load upabout bears. So I had to learn everything boxes etc. when attending fairs. I think itfrom scratch!” clearly helps if those close to you encour- age the madness!” Once Maureen had recovered suf-ficiently from her ordeal, she returned to Maureen’s ex-husband lives nearbywork and decided to take up a new and and usually pops in to local craft fairs tochallenging role, working as a senior man- see how Teddytums is progressing. Theyager for the Prison Service. “I was based have one daughter, Jayne, who they arein a men’s prison and had the role of train- extremely proud of. Having worked foring staff to deliver accredited qualifications training organisations and charities, sheto offenders and also had to introduce and studied part-time to gain HR qualifi-deliver national qualifications to offenders cations and graduated last year with amyself. This was a very challenging role, Masters degree. She is currently a busi-with little resources but I learnt a lot and ness partner/HR manager for a charityworked with some superb colleagues.” based in Peterborough. Government changes led to frustrations “In the early days of bear making, I washowever and in 2009 Maureen embarked very grateful for the advice and support I was given by Dawn Slaughter, who then worked part time for Oakley’s, based in Luton. Better known as a bear artist her- self (Dawn, Dusk and Midnight), Dawn helped push and prod my confidence in making bears and in attending excel- lent bear making workshops at Oakleys, including those by Gregory Gyllenship, April Bears and Janet Changfoot.” Maureen spends around 25 hours each week making her bears plus attending an average of two shows per month with them. “I have recently taken on the role of full time carer for my dad, who has lived with me for several years since we lost mum to pancreatic cancer. Dad has had28 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

‘I wanted to create a artist profilehappy, cheeky bear witha smile and some sortof look which couldbe mischievous andcuddly at the’same timetwo strokes over the last two years, has is, from day one, I wanted to create a on some bears, when it comes down to myseveral health issues plus Alzheimers.” happy, cheeky bear with a smile and some bear’s face, it will most likely have a smile. sort of look which could be mischievous I am an optimistic person - so no grumpy Retiring from full time employment and cuddly at the same time. When I was bears for me!”earlier this year has helped Maureen cope struggling to learn bear making, it was thewith increasing caring responsibilities, technical side that I had to really focus on As Maureen has made more andmanage some health issues of her own and and I just knew the bear had to have ‘atti- more bears, she can see a type of look haskeep Teddytums going with new designs tude’ - although I like the traditional look developed that her fingers seem to wantand projects. “I get asked to run teddy- to make. “I do experiment with materi-making workshops but decline. One can als and have learnt that different mohairsdemonstrate (maybe - this is also a big (type and colour), eye colours and stuff-skill) but to teach, one is responsible for ing/weight can greatly change the look andeach student to learn using their own feel of a bear.” Teddytums, feels Maureen,abilities, which needs to be understood. have just evolved rather than been inspiredEnsuring progress and success is a big by anything in particular. “As a bear col-ask. lector, I have collected Teddy Hermann, G-rumpy and Boyds bears. I also like “With such a long and successful career loose-limbed or wobble-jointed bears.in education, this might sound odd but I When my daughter was little, we lovedwas not a design and technology teacher... Ewoks and Care Bears!”in fact, I was useless at anything requiringhands and I think I gave up these subjects Teddytums are created where Maureenmyself, with failures, at age 13! I do carry feels comfortable. “I am very naughtya kit of ‘teddy making’ items to all shows and often work on the dining table in ourI attend though, as I find many people lounge/dining room as I like watchingdo not understand how bears are made. I or listening to TV in the company of myshow nut and bolt joints, half-made bears family. However, since retirement, I haveand stuffing components (especially my moved my main workings into an exten-different weights of steel shot) and am sion/room off this area. It overlooks ourhappy to show them if children ask ‘what, garden where I can watch the birds, dogswhen and how’...Still the teacher, even and the guinea pigs in their outdoor run.”when she is old..!” The bears are mostly created fromBears, bears, bears... mohair although Maureen does use Maureen calls her Teddytums ‘cheeky Alpaca and experiments with non-mohair fabrics from time to time. “In the earlybears with attitude’. “I’m not sure how you days I felt very ‘safe’ using almost neutralwould describe my Teddytums; all I know colours but now I love long mohair - espe- t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 29

artist profilecially tipped colours. I also love hand-dyed bear maker/designer). We have craft fairs bear fairs are concerned, the logistics ofmohair and must be one of Barbara-Ann’s in Stamford, Oakham and other select getting there and covering care for my dadbest customers! When it comes to fill- shows in this area. The group has been a at home mean I mostly access only thoseings, I love using different weights of steel good launch pad for me developing my in the East Midlands, sadly.”shot and the heavier recycled glass, which business in a professional way. As far asgives a scrunchy feel. And I have learnt Still a passionate bear collector,to use the eyes and nose in a way which Maureen keeps her voice low when shecompletes their look. I spend a lot of time says: “I have LOADS! I still buy bearsbuilding the nose up.” when I fall in love with one. My house is full of bears in cabinets and in places With everything going on in her life, where they can be seen.” Of course theseMaureen still manages to make around have been collected over a number of years50 bears each year, working really hard to and Maureen loves them all but therekeep a stock of bears for fairs. “I remem- are a few favourites. “I have a gorgeousber being shocked one Christmas when bear made by Janet Changfoot and threeI had none left to sell - so now I work lovely bears made by Sue Pemblingtonmyself hard to keep a stock ready for the of Fenbeary Folk. Oh...and ‘Teddy’ whoend of the year and for special occasions. stays on my bed!”When I get commissions it naturallymeans I cannot make bears so easily for She has also kept a few of her ownforthcoming shows.” bears. “Yes, I’ve been very naughty! I must have about 20. I tend to keep the You can find Teddytums for sale on first of any design and then occasionallyMaureen’s website www.teddytums.com one will come along that I really love.or at Bear With Me in Kettering, Bear My favourites have been Jasper, one ofEmporium in Sheffield, Thursby Hall my first made bears (so called as I over-and at quality craft fairs. “I am a member sculpted his face and we thought he likedof the Stamford Artisans group (the only like Jasper Carrot!!)” There were also two30 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

artist profile Just for fun... • What is your favourite TV‘standing up’ bears that Maureen designed wife when it’s nesting time.”as prototypes and then couldn’t bear to Away from the house, Maureen has show or movie?sell. “They are the dark blonde and purple I love Question Time, Have I Gotbears that appear on my logo.” achieved her wish to watch England play News for You specifically plus rugby against Ireland and looks forward crime thrillers, especially Danish Finally, Dylan, “My first Bunnytum! to going to a live rugby league match one productions like The Killing and TheOne of my regular collectors asked me day. Another huge source of enjoyment is Bridge; also medical dramas andto make a 15inch bunny with the usual music. “I have a large collection of CDSTeddytums face and complete with wob- at home but I try to get to live concerts •the Sports channelsble-joints - he was so lovely, it was very whenever possible. Artists I have thor- If you could be invisible for ahard to let him go. I have some characters oughly enjoyed include Runrig, Taylor day, what would you do?in my current group of bears I am selling Swift, Seth Lakeman, Teddy Thompson, Go to a governmrnt Cabinet meet-which will break my heart when they sell Robert Plant, Brian Adams, Lucy ing at no. 10, listening and observ-too.” Kaplansky, Gretchen Peters, Counting Crows and Bjork.” •ing their discussions and decisions Real animals play a big part in her life If you were stranded on aand Maureen has been keeping guinea With so many diverse interests and desert island, which five thingspigs since 1980. “I currently have three; responsibilities, it is no wonder that time would you have with you?Paddington (a long haired Peruvian), has often been a luxury for Maureen. TeddyMinky (short haired Self Mink coloured) Clearly, being such a positive person has Mascara/Make upand Lottie (a long haired Sheltie). brought many rewards and positivity has Teddy making kit (I always take this certainly helped her overcome numerous on holiday) “I have two Cairn terriers; a red one, challenges. Favourite perfumeaged 10, called Rory and a one year oldpup called Kirsty, who is a gorgeous grey Teddytums may well have attitude but •Book and pens to write withbrindle colour.” it seems Maureen herself has attitude too - If you could have any other the right attitude! TBT career in the world, what would When she isn’t making bears, Maureen it be and why?likes to read crime thrillers, watch sports Maybe a politician (I am passionateand enjoys a pint at her local pub The Fox about my beliefs and like helpingand Hounds. She also loves ‘fiddling’ in people improve their life chances);her garden. “Mum was a brilliant gar- or a lawyerdener but I currently don’t have the time Or possibly a psychologist - I origi-to devote to this hobby. I love fuchsias, nally applied to do a degree in psy-hydrangeas, conifers (yes, really!) and lav- chology but changed to read socialenders. I usually make at least ten hanging science. At school, I wanted to bebaskets each year. I love bird watching too a vet but didn’t excel at science.and treat our local birds to a selection of My mum’s farming family used tofeeders and foods. I regularly see a wide think I would marry a farmer as Irange of tits and other wild birds and even loved visiting them, spending timehave my own robin (called Robbie!) who on their farms and seeing thesings to me every day and lets me see his animals. But I didn’t believe in killing them and wanted to keep •them as pets! You’ve just won the Lottery - what do you spend it on? I would pay off my mortgage, buy a house with land to have my own mini zoo and make some personal choices regarding the various charities I support. THEBEARfacts Teddytums Bears with attitude Tel: 07969 985075 www.teddytums.com t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 31

VINTAGE BEARSThe first part of the Twentieth CenturyA well-loved old bear can often lose some of its pointers to identificationbut help is at hand. Hilary Pauley from Grandmas Teddies, TeddybearMuseum discovers British favourites Merrythought By Jill MundyM errythought was established Distinguishing features label with blue or black in 1930. The company stitching, sewn onto headhunted Clifton Rendle The classic features are: right foot. This wording of Chad Valley and Henry appeared for a very shortJanisch of J. K. Farnell (two leading •Head stuffed with wood wool time and is relativelyBritish soft toy manufacturers) as sales •Muzzle shaved hard to find.The firstpersonnel and, together with talented •Eyes set wide apart Merrythoughts were made in 1930. Theydesigner Florence Attwood, they produced •Flat ears sewn across front face had certain characteristics of the Chadthe company’s first catalogue. Valley range. There was already a good seams range of sizes. Merrythought was the seventeenth cen-tury name for ‘wishbone’, the symbol for •Square, vertically sewn nose 1933-4 early labelgood luck, which features on their button •No hump ‘Merrythought Hygienic Toys Made inand label. •Fully jointed England’ •Body stuffed with Kapok and wood The traditional bear from the earliest Early 1930s embroidered label.days came in ten different sizes, in gold woolmohair and various coloured artificialsilks. Merrythought teddy bears are still •Long armshand finished to this day and have always •Webbed stitched claws on paws,been considered very high quality Britishbears. Many Merrythought bears are with shorter stitches than early Jlabelled. If you are trying to date or iden- K Farnell bears (not all bears havetify a bear then the following guide may be webbed claws)helpful. •Most made from mohair but a fewDoes he have any labelsor a button? early bears were made from artificial silk. There are a number of differ-ent types of labels for you to compare. Bobby Bruin, Dutch teddy, dressed all-in-We have also identified which bears one bears and perhaps the most famous,in the Merrythought Collection of the Cheeky bear.Teddybear-museum have these labels, sothat you can look at the characteristics of In 1931 the company produced its firsteach bear in each period. catalogue from which we have learned so much. However there are some old bearsmade by Merrythought which had quite 1930-32 earliestdifferent features, such as the 1930’s Merrythought label‘Bingie Bear’, who was not fully jointed, ‘Made in England bydid not have the webbed claws and had a Merrythought Ltd’single front head seam. Then there were Here are three examples of teddies with this first label (top right). Embroidered32 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

This is the most VINTAGE BEARScommon early label.Most Merrythought Bobby Bruin 1936 (Showcased byearly bears were made Josie Rockett)from golden mohairwith shaved muzzles Bobby Bruin (pictured bottom left) wasand dropped nose produced by Merrythought in 1936 only.end stitches. They He is said to have been ‘designed fromhad glass eyes, set nature’. His head and arms are jointedwide apart and low but he has metal rods running through hison the head. Some had felt pads with body into his legs, allowing him to standwebbed claws on their paws, were fully up like a real bear! This lovely chap meas-jointed and were woodwool and kapok ures a huge 26 inches tall, which was thestuffed. largest size that was made. He has won- derful bright orange felt pads with webbed claw stitching on his paws and huge card inserts in his feet. His body is filled with a mixture of kapok and wood wool, and heMerrythought button bear mid 1930s. Wishbone button design (1931), nor- Bingie (above) was made in seven sizesmally found in left ear. including one designed for babies known 1930-1939. This, the only unsurprisingly as Baby Bingie. He is a sitting bear with unjointed legs and a cen-Merrythought button, is usually found tre head seam. He has a large head withwith the label above. shorter limbs, a pronounced snout and very long feet. has large glass eyes. Variations of the Bingie bear were made In 1938 came the between 1932-1938, there was a Tumpy, later a Cutie Bingie and a Bingie guards- Dutch teddies, which man and from 1933-38 Bare Bingies with had baggy, Dutch- clothes looking trousers incor- porated into the bear. There was a Magnet range, which was cheap, in four sizes, and the M line which In 1938/39 the had a better quality of bears. Like Chad Merrythought Panda Valley bears they had large flat ears and a celluloid button. They had their eyes wide t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 33 apart and low on head, four webbed claws on their paws and three on their pads. Their small feet were made of felt although sometimes they had velveteen pads.1930-1938 embroidered label Black stitching. This label in black was found on theBingie bearsBingie 1931-38 Merrythought was well known for theirbears with a difference. In 1931, Bingiewas one of the company’s first bear crea-tions. Once again due to the fact that thecompany was working with some of theworkers from the Chad Valley company, heis reminiscent of some of the Chad valleyCubby bears at the time, as is the Chubby

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 hap@mkps.co.uk

VINTAGE BEARS Cheeky Bears (right). There was an alter- native printed label from 1945 with ‘Regd design’ added. was made, dur- 1953 Coronation Bear to mark Not to be forgotten is Mr Twisty ing the height of the Queen’s coronation. Cheeky (above), who arrived in 1966 and the Panda craze was made for only two years. (Showcased by The In the late 1950/60s came the Kissable Muzzle) ‘Merrythought Ltd England’ label, Merrythought is a label with longevity. 1940 saw the stitched into the seam with cleaning Many Harrods bears through the years dressed Teddy at a instructions on it. There was usually the have been Merrythought, with the distinc- normal foot label as well. tive Harrod’s green label. time when materi- als were short. All in all, Merrythoughts of any age These teddies only have become an investment. They are wellhad the bare minimum of mohair; the made, of good quality and very huggable.body was made of incorporated clothes. An enduring company, it is one of the very few still producing bears today. If you have one, old or new, then enjoy it! They are very special. Your Grandchildren will love them one day... TBT •Hilary Pauley, Grandmas Teddies www.teddybear-museum.co.uk1945-56 printed woven 1957 saw the well knownlabel ‘Cheeky Bear’Merrythought Ironbridge, One of the most dis-Shropshire made in tinctive bears produced byEngland’ Merrythought is the ‘Cheeky’ bear (above). They have a very Quite often now there particular look. Their distinctivewere no dropped stitches, features are:longer thinner bodies,five claws on paws and •Large ears set on the side offour on pads. Towardsthe end of this period the head.we had the first of the ••••CSAAhirolscarmurtglaaaelrrlmsprtoiastuwcanhnpdedadeddlegsgmrisnuzzle t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 35

FEATURETOhlievesrtoLreynonfonI love going to a good concert but enjoyit even more when a much lovedcompanion comes along too By Lorraine HitchinsH aving been a the house. They all enjoy down to the ground) he needed a musi- musician and listening, and sometimes cian’s name and what better name could songwriter in my even dancing with me, to any musician – Teddy Bear or Human – youth, I decided it many different styles of ever have than Lennon. Hence the namewas time I started to write music but I did not actu- Oliver Lennon.again. To help me get back ally have a Teddy Bearinto the swing of it, I needed who was a musician. So it We immediately set to work writingsome help and what better some new songs and he was brilliant, giv-help could I possibly have was time to start looking ing me all the inspiration I needed but Ithan a Teddy Bear? for a suitable candidate. felt he needed to accompany me to some concerts too. Looking around my collec- This was not as easytion of bears, there were many as I had first anticipated. His first con-who loved music, as I have Firstly, I looked at a cert was to see Artalways brought music into number of Old Teddy Garfunkel. He loved Bear candidates and it and all the people36 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m although there was a there loved him too. few who perhaps could Then he was lucky help me, none of them enough to meet the was quite right and so I carried on with wonderful Gregory my search. Porter (right); they In the end, it happened quite by had quite a chat chance. I came across a Steiff Teddy Bear and became very who was named ‘Oliver’. He was made by good and close friends. Steiff in a Limited Edition of just 4,000 in the year 2004 and, I don’t know how His last concert was in Cardiff recently exactly to explain it, but he looked at me when he went to see the amazing James and I just knew that he was the one. He Taylor at the Motorpoint Arena. Oliver was the ‘Mister Right’ I had been looking Lennon and I made quite a day of it actu- for and so, he came home with me. ally and we had a bit of a look around During the drive home I played some the capital city, stopping once or twice for of my favourite music and I swear he was drinks and a chat. moving to the beat. When he arrived at his new home, I firstly introduced him to His favourite moment of the whole all the other bears (which of course takes concert was when James sang Oliver some time). Then we found him a very Lennon’s favourite song ‘You’ve Got A neat hand knitted scarf and I gave him a Friend’ which quite honestly, could have badge which had belonged to me many been written about the love of a Teddy years ago. He really did look the part. Bear, couldn’t it? TBT Now, although Steiff had already given him the name Oliver (which suited him •Lorraine Hitchins, Ginos Bears www.ginosbears.co.uk 01452 721815

CR’s Crafts Phylls Bear s Chair s Doll, Teddy Bear & Craft Supplies Teddy and Dolls Bespoke Furniture crscraft.com phyllidaturner@yahoo.co.uk 877-277-2782 077950 75532 P.o. Box 8-ti14C leland, ia 50453 CR’s CRafts Catalog $4.00 U.s., $5.00 Canada $7.00 otheR CoUntRies (U.s. fUnds only) BSB Bear Supplies bNeeaawvra:kiBliatabnilleoeyw Please visit our ebay shop to see our exciting range of bear supplies, kits and lots of lovely hand dyed mohair Give my Facebook page BSB BEAR Supplies a ‘like’ to be entered into my monthly draw for a chance to win a piece of mohair. www.stores.ebay.co.uk/BSB-BEAR-SUPPLIES email:bearlysanebears@sky.com • Tel: 01752403515 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 37

FEATUREthe OimFpDeIrEiaTlEcRoKlleAcIStiEoRn A special collection of Steiff bears and other collectables from someone who had great influence within the company By Joanne McDonald, Vectis AuctionsV ectis Auctions were privileged chat and enthuse about their acquisitions to be able to offer for sale a and that some had even set up their own compilation of pieces from the local get togethers. collection of Dieter Kaiser.Although his name will not be recognised Realising the potential, Dieterby many, his ideas and influence within the approached the management of Goebel,Steiff Company is far reaching. in Coburg, with whom he had had deal- ings with before. Goebel had launched a From 1978 until 1985 Dieter was Collectors Club for their popular Hummelthe Export Manager for the Steiff Toy figurine range which had quickly grownCompany and in this capacity he was for- to encompass 50,000 worldwide mem-tunate enough to travel the world, meeting bers. Dieter formulated a similar proposalmany avid Steiff fans along the way. Dieter for Steiff including gift ideas, magazine,recognised the love and enthusiasm people information giving and a permanent dis-had for the range, the fact they loved to play of items for members. Unfortunately at that time it was not thought manageable and put on hold. When his friends at Goebel heard of the rejection, they presented him with a consolation Steiff ceramic bear (which was to have been suggested as a possible first gift) which was dated ‘Neu 82’ on the base. Eventually a Collector Club was ini- tiated in 1992, based on Dieter’s original draft proposal. At its peak, the club had 60,000 members and a Steiff Museum was inaugurated in Giengen. Dieter was also fortunate to have been integral to the development of many new ranges for the German toy pioneers, giv- ing suggestions for form, colour and size during the design process. As a pri- mary figure, Dieter and the Marketing Manager were in the enviable positions of being able to purchase pieces from the first run or low edition numbers. During this period Steiff flourished, with the collector’s section seeing some of the most important developments. The first Limited Edition Replicas, as we38 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

ARTIST PROFILEknow them, were launched in 1982; the cases. •For more information about‘Original Teddy’, released in an edition There were also some fun items suchof 11,000 pieces to celebrate the 100th this or any other teddy bear salesAnniversary of Steiff (EAN 0153/43) and as the pom pom pets, pom pom mini- please contact Joanne McDonaldthe ever popular ‘Richard Steiff Teddy’ on atures and other gifts; the condition on jo.mcdonald@vectis.co.uk or Kathythe occasion of the 80th Birthday of the the majority was outstanding. Dieter’s Taylor Kathy.taylor@vectis.co.uk atteddy bear (EAN 0150/32). Both of these role touched on catalogue development Vectis Auctions on 01642 750616.were included in the Vectis sale, plus the and therefore archive materials werepromotional flyer issued at the time. Many important; documentation and ephemera •For more information about the Steiffof the limited edition bears from these going back to 1928 were also available.formative years were also on offer, such as Contained in the sale, was an extremely Club just visit: http://www.steiff.com/the Mother and Baby Set, Teddy Bear Tea interesting photo- en/Party (which is a Salesman’s sample) and graphic biography ofNimrod Set, amongst others. Although we Theodore Roosevelt •You can join the Steiff Clubby either:often see these come up for sale, the con- by William Davisondition on this assortment is exceptional as Johnston. 1 - at your chosen Steiff club store bythey had been carefully packed and stored purchasing a Welcome Packaway from light for up to 34 years in some In Steiff terms 2 - Online this was a royal col- 3 - By post on receipt of an application lection. TBT form. •Subscription fees are: 1 year = £39 2 year = £70 3 year = £95 •Point of contact for UK is Leyla Maniera, Steiff Club Manager UK, Astra House, The Common, Cranleigh, Surrey, GU6 8RZ. t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 39

knitting patternSnug seasonalsweaterThis cosy jumper with built in scarf looks great inseasonal red and green. It would look cool in icy shadesof blue or try navy, cream and red for a nautical feel By Jill MundyYOU’LLneed Back Continue in stocking stitch Cast off 4 stitches at beginning of next 2 ■ 50g ball DK in main shade (A) Using A, cast on 45 stitches. rows ( 37 stitches) ■ 50g ball in leaf green (B) Row 1: Purl Cast off 3 stitches at beginning of next 2 ■ 50g ball in red (C) Rows 2-6: Knit rows (31 stitches) ■ 4mm needles Row 7: Knit K2tog at beginning of next 4 rows (27 ■ Large eyed tapestry needle Row 8: Purl stitches) Row 9: Knit Knit a further 8 rows in st. st. or as many or bodkin Row 10: Purl as required to reach back neck. Row 11: Change to B and work as fol- Cast off loosely.•To fit a 12 inch bear (approx) lows: (Knit 4, sl1p) to end Row 12: Purl FrontAbbreviations Row 13: Change to C and repeat row 11 Row 14: Purl Using A, cast on 45 stsSl1p: Slip 1 stitch purl wise, keeping yarn at Repeat rows 11-14 once Work as for back to row 24back of work Row 19: Change to A; Knit Row 25: Continue in stocking stitch,St st: stocking stitch (knit 1 row, purl 1 row) Row 20: Purl shape as follows:K2tog: knit two stitches together Repeat rows 19 & 20 twice (24 rows) Cast off 6 stitches at beginning f next 2 rows Cast off 4 stitches at beginning of next 2 rows K2tog at beginning of next 2 rows (23 sts) Row 31: Knit Row 32: Purl Row 33: Knit Row 34: Purl Next row: K10; turn. Slip stitches from left hand needle on to stitch holder or large safety pin. Working on these 10 sts only, Purl two tog, Knit to end Next row: Knit Repeat last 2 rows three times more (6 sts) Next row: Knit Cast off purlwise. With right side facing, rejoin yarn to remaining 13 sts. Cast off 3 sts; Knit to end Next row: Purl40 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

knitting pattern Next row: K2tog; Knit to end Row 25: K2tog; Knit to end mattress stitch, join edges, leaving a short Repeat last 2 rows three times more (6 Row 26: P2tog; Purl to end length open at each end if you wish.sts) Repeat rows 25 & 26 twice more (20 sts) Cast off purlwise Continue in stocking stitch, without shap- Making up ing, for 6 rowsSleeves (make 2) Decrease 1 st at beg of next 4 rows Before making up, block all pieces and Cast off 5 sts at beg of next 2 rows leave to dry With A, cast on 30 sts Cast off remaining 6 sts. Row 1: Purl With A, join shoulder seams Row 2: Knit Neck (scarf) Sew sleeves around armhole edge, easing Row 3: Knit to fit if required Row4: Purl Using B, cast on 8 sts and Knit 2 rows With right sides together, sew side seams Repeat rows 3 & 4 twice more Row 3: Change to C; K2, sl1p, K2, sl1p, and sleeve seams Row 9: Change to B and work as for K2 Turn through to right side and press lightlyback for 8 rows Row 4: Purl Put centre of scarf to centre back neck. Row 17: Rejoin A; Knit Row 5: Change to B; K2, sl1p, K4, sl1p, Sew bottom edge around one side of neck- Row 18: Purl K2 line to 1cm from centre front on each side, Row 19: Increase in first st., Knit to end Row 6: Purl leaving end of scarf loose Row 20: Increase in first st., Purl to end Repeat rows 3-6 until scarf fits around Repeat on other side of neckline. Repeat rows 19 & 20 once more (34 sts) neckline twice Loosely tie ends of scarf and secure Cast off 4stitches; Knit to end Cast off together in place with a tiny stitch if neces- Cast off 4 stitches purlwise; Purl to end Scarf naturally folds at slip stitches. Using sary. TBT t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 41

artist profileWweilsdtaiendBewaarcskyIt’s a happy tenth anniversary for Westie Bears.Andy West has gone from drama to bear artistwith only the odd crisis By Andy WestI ’m Andy and I’m 21-and-a-bit years port. At school I was unsure about what I where I gained a great deal of inspiration young (Oh, o.k. - I’m really 51 years wanted to do apart from studying drama and skill. young). I am married to Lesley (who (as all my customers and fellow bear artists describes herself as a Teddy Widow) know, I can be a bit of a drama queen!) •How did I get drawn into the worldand we have three children: Hannah, 26, but was advised to get a ‘proper job’ bywho works for Portsmouth University; my school. That is when I ‘fell’ into the of Teddy bears? Well about 14 years ago,Christian, 24, who has just graduated caring professions, where I stayed for the I became disabled and was losing the feel-from UEL with a degree in animation and next 26 years, in the role of Social Work ing in my fingers, so my physio suggestedlives and works in Oxfordshire; and Jack Management (I have a degree in social I take up sewing. Well, I instantly thoughtwho is 21, still at home and works for an work and drama therapy). wooooah, that’s a girly thing, but I agreedinsurance company. to make a 26” teddy bear for my daughter. I am the youngest of three boys. My That bear was created using a great deal I live in Horsham, West Sussex, a Mum was always sewing and creating of swearing and a loss of blood from thegrowing market town near Gatwick air- new things from fabrics so I guess that is constant pricking of my fingers with the needle! The finished result was vaguely similar to a teddy bear but I felt it looked more like a monster as its head was too small for its body and all the limbs were different lengths (but please note, she is well loved and still living with my daughter). Well, that bear caused so much laughter within the family, we went along to the Hove bear fair as visitors. As soon as I walked through the door, the magic of the Teddy bear world hit me; so many wonderful designs and creations...I wanted to be a part of that. It was at that show that I met Deb Canham (a world renowned bear art- ist who originates from Worthing, West Sussex but is now based in the USA) and her fantastic little creations. Deb spent time talking me through the art of minia- ture bears and sent me away with a pattern and fabric. That is when I first created a mini bear - although it looked more like a rat!! But the bug had hit me. I wanted to create all the time and many of my early bears were sewn on the train during my42 t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m

artist profilecommute to London (I got a few odd get them stitched and created. I always Steiff bears have the button in their ear,looks and always got a seat as I think peo- start with the head, so my workroom looks Westie Bears can have a bee!! What fun tople on the train thought I was quite mad). like a medieval torture chamber with rows be in Heaven, look down at the Antiques of heads waiting for bodies. Road Show and see a Westie bear being•Why do I make bears? My bears valued in the thousands? •Where do I get my inspiration from?started as therapy for my disability but Most of my bears are wild, wacky butthey have gone much further than that Life. I love people watching so many of wonderful, with long comical snouts butas they are now a big part of my world. I my bears are based on people that I see in I still make a few traditional bears (butenjoy the challenge and creation of mini- the street. As my kids are young and arty, always with a touch of artistic flair).ature bears and the fact that they are guar- many of my bears have a young and punkyanteed to make people smile (don’t you feel to them (bright hair, piercing etc). But •The future? My aim is to have my ownthink that this world has too much sad- I also love the fantasy (or is it real?) worldness?) and if my bear can make you smile, of fairies and elves. I also make bunnies, studio shop where I can promote my bearsBINGO! My job is done. monkeys, dragons, pigs, elephants etc. and the work of other artists. I undertook all of which are not your normal colour running a workshop this year which was a•How long have I been making shades - well why should a monkey not be great success (lots of chocolate and laugh- purple? ter). In 2015 I aim to run several morebears? Approximately 18 years, most workshops.of which was as a hobby but in 2004 (so As my work is all OOAK I undertakecelebrating 10 successful years as a bear a lot of commissions. My bears stand out As Westie Bears are a real passion forbusiness this year) I became a full time as most of them are created in wild and me, I am constantly working on new ideasbear artist (this took some explaining to wacky clashing colours and they all have and developments. It is great to see mythe bank manager, who thought a bear smiley faces. Over the last year I have bears flying out all over the world now andartist was a stripper!!). developed a trademark of a handmade bee stocked in shops such as Hamleys! I love somewhere on all of my larger bears. Well making my mini bunnies and would like•How have I learnt the art? Well Deb to develop their design into a more comi- I thought, cal and wacky design in the future. I loveCanham started me off with her patternand I attended two of her courses (but I most aspects of bear making but inmust say I was very disruptive on those particular I like making and needlecourses, as I do love a joke and a giggle). sculpting their head; that’s when theyI have also learnt many skills by attend- take on a life of their own. The part Iing the Teddi Bach Hug conventions and find a chore is the stuffing of a bear.workshops. I love to experiment with new The rest of my skills are by trial and fabrics and have stashes of fabric allerror and listening to feedback at fairs around the house (much to my wife’sregarding my bears. My biggest critics are despair - why don’t non bear peoplemy family but they also give me a great not see that you can never have enoughdeal of inspiration for new designs etc. fabric?) I also enjoy needle sculpting toes and facial features. My custom-•What were my first bears like? ers also seem to have a passion for my micro bears which are turned and fullyMutations! A cross between Martians jointed.and rats. But these soon developed into My favourite bear is always the beartraditional style bears. Two years ago I wassewing at the Portsmouth bear fair and asusual, talking too much, when I sewed thehead gusset wrong. That is when my nowpopular wacky bears were created, withcomical long snouts.•Do I design my own patterns? Yes;I usually start with a rough design onkitchen paper which I play around withuntil I am happy, then transfer it ontocardboard. Just recently I have started todesign directly onto the fabrics!•How long does it take to designa bear? It depends on the size of thebear; my smallest bear is ½” and takesabout 14+ hours. I always have a fewbears on the go at once as all my bearsare OOAK. My head just bursts withnew ideas all the time and I have to t e d d y b e a r t i m e s . c o m 43

artist profilethat I am working on at the time, although drunk in the gutter! into the open. But most of all what a won-I have kept a bear from about five years In 2008 I was also very privileged to derful way to earn a living creating miniago; a cute little brown and white panda bears that give so much enjoyment to socalled Hope, who sits and watches me be a Bronze award winner in the Barclay many people. My surname is West and mysewing. I am always thrilled when one of Trading places Awards (beating over nickname (and that of my sons) is Westie,my bears goes to a new home and to see 800 other businesses in the UK). I think hence Westie Bears. The only down side isthe smile on their new mom or dads face awards are fantastic as they promote the that people think I also breed Westie dogs!is, as my kids would say, “the business” skills and hard work that all of us artistsfor me. put into our work. I would especially like All my bears spend a little time socialis- to see award categories that promote the ing in my workroom before they go off Most of my bears are approximately work of new artists. to a fair with a hug, a photo and a birth3” in height. The full range is ½” up to certificate. Teddy bear making is an art allthe giddy height of eight inches. I work I sell my bears at all the leading bear of its own; for every bear there is someonemainly with mohair and upholstery fabric fairs throughout the UK. I sell from my who will love it and share their secretsbut love to experiment eg PVC, towelling, web site and to shops across the UK and with it. A customer once told me bears areleather, to name but a few. the world. I also sell directly to custom- better than men as they keep your secrets, ers. You will recognise me at fairs by the are house trained and keep their good My workroom is the spare room in the six foot Westie Bears banner and my pas- looks...house and is always an artistic mess. I love sion for the colour pink (I normally wearto listen to the radio or books on CD. My pink and the person I live to be is Barbara I love making bears for anyone but Ibest designs seem to be made with music Cartland). I love the fact that the internet would love to make a bear for Sir Eltonblaring out!! As I now work from home, I gives my customers easy access to me even John or Johnny Rotten as I am sure thatdo not miss the four hours of commuting if they are the other side of the world. would enable me to go completely over theI made when I worked in London. top in design, colour and wow factor!! The I collect any bear that says “take me only skill I think I would like to master Once the kids have gone to college or home.” It could be an artist bear (I partic- is the ability not to talk too much at Bearschool and my wife goes to work, the cat ularly love Shoebutton bears) or could be fairs. I love to talk to my customers andlets me know it is time to go to my work- a charity shop bear. But my real passion is have been known to lose my voice by theroom. She leads the way and loves to lay monkeys; as I did not have a Teddy Bear end of a fair!amongst the mohair or run off with bits of as a child I had a Woolworths “Jacko”bears! monkey (which I still have, although he is My prices range from £25 for micro well loved now). bears then average out at about £48. I feel I was the 2005 British Bear Artist this is not a bad price when you think ofAward winner of category six, for a group The Bear Scene has changed my life the hours of work that go into each bearof bears: ‘Asbo Andy and the morning as it has been good therapy for me and (16-20) but if you work it out, most bearafter feeling’ was three punk bears laying has also released a hidden artistic skill out artists must be below the minimum wage level. However, I am grateful to be able to do a job that I love and feel so passionate about. I would love to see more Bear artists having the opportunity to promote their work in the mainstream of the commercial world, not just depending on special- ist fairs. I recently sold a bear to a non bear person who said he would never have thought about buying a bear but he classed my work as art. Anyone who classes themselves as a Bear artist has a responsibility to promote teddy bears to a wider audience. I have achieved this by giving interviews on the radio, TV and to various publications. I enjoy giving talks at schools and to other groups of people spreading the word of bear power. I support WISPA and Mencap. My motto: Wild, wacky but wonderful (and the bears are not bad as well). TBT thebearfacts Westie Bears,12 Norfolk Road, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1BZ Tel: 01403 241381 Email: andy@westiebears.com Web: www.westiebears.com44 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 maria@ashdown.co.uk (UK/Europe) or sara@ashdown.co.uk (US) Nicholas from Bears By Sue Quinn 22” wwwT.eble: a0r1s4b1ys8u8e7qu9i9n1n6.co.uk

artistGALLERYPIPEDREAM BEARS Tillington Bears Made by Jan Cardey Lovingly made by hand from high quality materials. Bears now available at our website shop Tel: 01487 843384 www.tillingtonbears.co.uk tel 01612858254 www.bearsandpugs.com ThReAdTeDs ® www.threadteds.com mail@threadteds.com The source for: artist bears mini fabric patterns & supplies

artistGALLERYBramble Cottage Bears Liudmila Govorova Russia, Moscow Mobile: +7-903-240-44-23 Email: liudmila@govorov.info www.teddygovorova.com Little Scruffs by Jean Grogan www.miniaturemohairbears.co.uk Tel: 07929310275 email: littlescruffs@yahoo.co.uk Ooak creations made with love in the beautiful New Forest by Sue Munden.Vintage & contemporary styles in a range of exciting fabrics including rare velvets, woven textiles, sheepswool, mohair & alpaca. www.bramblecottagebears.com email: sue@bramblecottagebears.com or sulemu@live.co.uk

artistGALLERY ‘Emma’s Bears’drHagaonbdnysmmaoEwanhdadamwellirmtamwhaorentri.adsewft.udabFaeryueanlualflrdxrdorseamd,nMfbagiScuueunaxtonniorffniuekbynrsea,A.Nacveuralssoeii,ltcparmkahbhiltaliesaon,atlpsts,aoottwnerlns,s,

artistGALLERYBarron Bears Collectors bears by Gus Designs Hand made mohair artist bears & friends.by Sharon Barron USA donna-lakin@hotmail.com barrontb@gmail.com 07790223060Barronteddiebears.com Find us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/collectorbearsChMrtoiesrtarmlylas YoYo Bears Bear: Cashmere Artist Yolanda Levy USA www.YoYoBears.com yoyobears@gmail.com

artistGALLERY Pepper Bears Jan’s Tiddy BearsHand crafted Artist Bears By Rebecca Lewis See us at Hugglets, stand 100a Commissions accepted 07889 794637 becca@pepperbears.co.uk 07816398135 janstiddybears@gmail.com www.pepperbears.co.uk www.janstiddybears.co.uk www.facebook.com/pepperbears BrendaBears Artist: Brenda Parker www.brendabears.combrenda@brendabears.com