THE artists’gallery Beautiful one-of-a-kind bears, all designed and hand-stitched by talented bear artists. Bear My Sole Beariety Bears Samt and Roses Bären Designed by JoAnne OHanlon By Linda Brown-Trinckes samtandrosesbaeren.jimdo.com email: [email protected] email: [email protected] and on Instagram: tel: (480) 358-4051 web: trinckesartandmusic.com samt_and_roses_baeren Charbears Bearily Pawsing E2 Bears by Charlene Draeger By Donna Manthey Shane & Rob Elliott email: [email protected] email: [email protected] facebook.com/e2bears email: [email protected] www.charbears.com tel: (1) 608-212-1600 51TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
Elegant Creations Bear Azuni Heir Bears by Vicky Lougher Yolanda Levy By Jane Woodard www.vickylougher.com YoYo Bears.com www.heirbears.com email: [email protected] [email protected] email: [email protected] Black Mountain Bears Raspbeary Bears Pamda Bears Beautiful original hand knitted Artist by Darlene Allen Designed by Pam Pontious Bears,Knitting patterns and kits. email: [email protected] www.pamdabears.com www.blackmountainbears.co.uk email: [email protected] Now available on your tablet! Teddy Bear Times magazine is now available to read on your favourite device, including the iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, Samsung Galaxy Tab. Buy the latest issue anywhere in the world at a fraction of the cost of the paper edition. Download your FREE App today. Simply search for ‘Teddy Bear Times Magazine’ in the Apple App store or Android Market. 52 TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
My Apple Tree Dandelion Bears Jodie’s Bears Designed by: Cindy L Malchoff 100% Handstitched by Traceyann Papworth by Tomoko Suenaga www.myappletree.com [email protected] + 81 466251202 www.dandelionbears.com email: [email protected] [email protected] BrendaBears Mary Dowd Bears Notchlok Bears by Brenda Parker Designed by Mary Dowd by Sandy Czaja www.brendabears.com marydowdbears.bearpile.com www.notchlokbears.com [email protected] email: [email protected] email: [email protected] Download your FREE App today. Simply search for ‘Teddy Bear Times Magazine’ in the Apple App store or Android Market. 53TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
TOBY TEDDY BEAR OF THE YEAR Here’s the news that teddy bear artists around ROBIN HOOD &Photos of all the entries are reviewed by the world have been waiting for... the prestigious, world-famous 2019 TOBY Awards are now open. HIS MERRY MENteddy bear artists and other professionals within Teddy Bear Times & Friends is now accepting the industry, who evaluate each submission on entries for the fabulous 2019 Teddy Bear of the overall aesthetic appeal, excellence in concept, Year (TOBY) Award competition. The deadline for design, and workmanship. entries is May 1, 2019, so don’t delay! If you’re a teddy bear maker, anywhere in the world, you’re The highest-scoring creations in each cat- eligible to enter. See the website for details. egory receive the TOBY Industry’s Choice Awards and become the nominees for that year’s TOBY The Teddy Bear of the Year (TOBY) competi- Public’s Choice Awards. Teddy Bear Times & tion celebrates excellence in conception, design, Friends readers then vote for their favorite nom- and execution of teddy bears and soft-sculpture inee in each category to determine the Public’s animals. Choice winners. What are you waiting for? Enter today. CATEGORIES Additional Artist Categories 12: Nontraditional Materials (bear or “friend,” any size, ARTIST CATEGORIES dressed or undressed, made mostly from nontraditional mate- rials including, but not limited to, felted fibers, yarn, polymer Classic/Cuddly Teddy Bears & Friends clay, or wood) 1: Miniature Dressed Bear (5 inches or smaller) 13: Set (two or more bears and/or “friends” presented as be- 2: Miniature Undressed Bear (5 inches or smaller) longing together and/or sold primarily or exclusively together; 3: Small Dressed Bear (over 5 inches; under 14 inches) any size, dressed or undressed) 4: Small Undressed Bear (over 5 inches; under 14 inches) 14: Vignette (one or more bears and/or “friends” with cos- 5: Large Dressed Bear (14 inches or larger) tume, props and/or a background or base, arranged in scene) 6: Large Undressed Bear (14 inches or larger) 7: Miniature “Friend” (5 inches or smaller, no bears) MANUFACTURER CATEGORIES 8: Small “Friend” (over 5 inches; under 14 inches, no bears) 15: Manufactured Bear (any size, dressed or undressed) 9: Large “Friend” (14 inches or larger, no bears) 16: Manufactured “Friend” (any size, dressed or undressed, no bears) Natural/Realistic Bears & Friends 10: Natural Bear (any size) 11: Natural “Friend” (any size) ENTER ONLINE NOW AT THE OFFICIAL AWARDS WEBSITE: www.thetobyawards.com email: [email protected] teddy&bearTHE TOBY AWARDS ARE PROUDLY ORGANISED BY: TIMES FRIENDS
WHERE i WORK Ulrike Wagner-Heinze trades as Samt & Roses Baeren. She has won several awards for her beautiful bears so we wanted to find out where she creates them Your bears have a lovely vintage people in? Oh guests and friends look to them. Is this reflected in are very welcome. your workspace? We are lucky to live in an old farmhouse in the Are there any tools or other spe- country and in this quiet place I have cial items that you always like to a nice room where I make all my use when making your bears? I bears. think all my different needles are my favorite tools. And the radio is impor- If you had to describe your work tant too - I am always listening to the space in five words, what would radio while making my bears. they be? Inspiring, cozy, homely, warm, quiet…and sometimes very There are some beautiful items chaotic. in your workroom - what one item couldn’t you be without? I could It certainly does look very not imagine my room without the homely.What do you like most armchair. I make all my bears sitting about where you work? I love the there, with my feet up on a chair, atmosphere and the light in my work sometimes with the cat on my legs space. There are two windows, a big when she wants to spend the day and a small one. I view the garden with me; it’s very comfortable. with a big old oak tree and I can see the sun going down in the evening. Do you dream of working any- I am surrounded with my favorite where else? No I’m very happy colors and all the things I really here. For me my working space is love. It’s my little world, where I feel the best place in the world. inspired and secure. ● samtandrosesbaeren.jimdo.com That sounds wonderful. Do you and on Instagram: keep it private or do you let other samt_and_roses_baeren “IT’S MY LITTLE WORLD, WHERE I FEEL INSPIRED AND SECURE.”
MAKE A BEAR PRAaTffTlEesRN: The charming Raffles is sure to be a winner with any bear lover BY JULIE SHEPHERD To begin: find that a few seconds just doing a You can machine or hand sew your quick double-check on each element bear - the choice is entirely a personal As with everything, a project goes as you complete your bear will be time one. If you choose to machine sew, you so much better if you have all the nec- well spent. may still find that it is easier, quicker essary tools and information to hand, and more accurate to hand sew the so take a moment to read through the The seam allowance on all the pat- head and foot pads. For all handsew- instructions. If you are a novice you’ll tern pieces is 4mm. The pieces each ing, use a double thread. have been marked with an arrow to Materials show the direction of the pile. All piec- Preparing pattern and fabric es are completed right sides together. A fat quarter of mohair Draw the pattern pieces on to card Scrap of white felt (optional) I always recommend trimming the (something like an old cereal box will Matching good quality sewing pile from the seam allowance before be perfect) taking care to mark all the thread beginning to sew - this will give neater, darts and joint positions accurately. Extra strong thread in match- tighter stitching and help to cut down ing color on the amount of pile that needs to be Lay the pattern onto the reverse side Perle embroidery thread, no. freed once stitching is complete. of the mohair making sure that you 5 follow the arrows showing the direction 1 pair 11mm black glass eyes Pin the pieces together very care- of the pile. Always lay out the whole 3 x 35mm joint sets fully, making sure that none of them are pattern before starting to cut out - and 2 x 38mm joint sets twisted. if you are at all nervous about mistakes Polyfiber filling at this stage it is probably worth cutting Steel shot (if you like to add a Use plenty of pins, inserting them out a full pattern i.e. four leg pieces, little weight) at right angles to the cut edge of your two body pieces etc from cardboard fabric. If you find that the fabric is shift- so that you can lay out the whole bear Tools: ing as you stitch, tacking the pieces before marking out. Fine point permanent marker together first will overcome this. When you are happy with your pen Take your time layout, carefully draw round the pieces Small sharp scissors using a fine permanent marker pen. Glass headed pins When pinning or tacking, be sure Fine nosed pliers to tuck the pile inside as you go. And Cut out just inside the pen line using 5” doll needle even if you have trimmed the pile from a small pair of sharp scissors (embroi- Knitting needle or awl the seam allowance, once stitching is dery scissors are very good), taking Mohair brush complete take the time to check for great care not to cut the pile but just any trapped mohair and gently pick the woven backing. PATTERN SHOWN AT 100% it from the stitching using a needle - although I’m the first to admit that this When all the pieces are cut out, task is very boring, it really is worth take the time to trim the pile from the doing it.....nothing looks worse that seam allowance - but be very careful! tufty seams! If you cut a little more than the seam 56 TEDDY BEAR TIMES
allowance your bear will have very MAKE A BEAR fill the head but keep turning it and wide partings along all his stitching, shaping it with your fingers as you go. so err on the side of caution. It’s much shapen foot pads can easily spoil an When you are happy with the ap- better to spend half an hour picking otherwise lovely bear. pearance of the head, you can either the seams later on than overdoing the add the neck joint now or later after trimming now. Once the foot pad is in you have embroidered the nose - the place, insert the 38mm joint choice is yours. Raffles does not have pawpads but and stuff, once again pay- he does have shaved mohair footpads ing particular attention to Whichever you choose, you are - so you will need to trim the pile away the footpad. Don’t make the ready now to add the neck joint. Take from the footpads before sewing them mistake of thinking that as it a length of double extra strong thread into the leg. has been sewn in perfectly, it will remain a perfect shape once Body stuffed. Uneven or clumsy stuffing can completely Create the darts where marked change the shape of the at the top and bottom of the body pad so take your time pieces - these will give the finished and keep checking as body a little fullness. Once the darts you go. Once you are are completed, pin the sides together happy, close the opening. and stitch from A to B, then from C to D. Turn right side out. Head Arms This is the most cru- cial part of any bear so Pin the inner and outer arm pieces take your time with together, taking care to match them each step. Sew the accurately - if they are a little bit out head pieces to- you’ll probably find that the finished gether from K to arm twists slightly. L and then care- fully insert the When you are happy with the fit of head gusset and the pieces, sew from E to F. Turn right remember, if the side out and using the awl to make a gusset is slightly hole where marked, insert the 35mm crooked it will mean joints.You can now stuff the arm but that the whole head will be out use only small amounts of stuffing at a of alignment when completed. time - too much won’t be quicker as it The muzzle may be twisted will probably form lumps and pockets or the head unevenly which will need to be removed and shaped and if that hap- repeated - and pay particular attention pens there is very little to to the paws and shoulders. be done but unpicking. Puckered paws are not the look you When you are com- are hoping to achieve and if the shoul- pletely happy with the der is not stuffed evenly and firmly it fit of the gusset, sew into will be puckered too. place (and this is another of those ‘hand sewing might be When you are happy with the ap- easier’ tasks). Turn right side out. pearance of the stuffed limb, close the opening using ladder stitch and the Stuffing extra strong thread. Now you are ready to add the stuff- Legs ing. Use small amounts of filling and pay particular attention to the muzzle. Pin the legs right side together and You will need to fill the head firmly stitch from G to H and then from I to as you will need a stable base for the J. Then insert the pad taking care to nose you will be embroidering later, match the toe and heel positions ac- but if you stuff absolutely rock hard curately and easing to fit. This is one it will be very difficult to position the of those bear jobs that you may find eyes. much easier to hand sew - a neat finish is very important as uneven and mis- So bearing this in mind, gradually 57TEDDY BEAR TIMES
MAKE A BEAR 58 TEDDY BEAR TIMES
MAKE A BEAR 59TEDDY BEAR TIMES
and run a row of small running stitch- MAKE A BEAR each pulled in evenly), tie each off es around the neck opening. Put the securely using a double knot, thread 35mm joint in place and gather the Eyes your needle and bury the ends in the stitching firmly to close the open- head. ing around the cotter pin. Finish off You should be able to see/feel a securely. natural eye socket at the top of the Ears muzzle so use glass headed pins Muzzle to mark the positions. Take great Pin the ears right sides together care to ensure that the eyes are and stitch round the curved edge. Now for the nerve-wracking part even, level and symmetrical. Check Turn right side out.You may find it - trimming the muzzle! Trim from the the position of the eyes not only by easier to fit the ears if you sew turn tip of the nose, taking off a little at a looking at the head front on, but also the straight edges under by 3/4mm time. Remember, you can always trim from above - and make sure that you and stitch together. Use pins to ex- a little more but if you trim too much have not placed the eyes directly periment with different positions for it won’t grow back. Trim tiny amounts over the seam as the strain could the ears but take care to make sure at a time and keep turning the head weaken it. that they are even. to examine it from different angles (I have given my bear eye whites until you are happy with the look. to accentuate his eyes - but this is When you are happy with their optional. If you would like to add placement, sew in position using lad- Nose eye whites to your bear just cut der stitch and extra strong thread. two 11mm felt circles, cut a small Embroider the nose using a single slit across the centre of the felt and Making up strand of No 5 perle thread. I know thread the wire shank of the eye how tricky nose embroidery can be through the hole then complete Joint the head to the body first. so anything that can help has to be the eye placement as normal). Insert the cotter pin into the body a bonus. If you really struggle with When you are absolutely happy between positions B and C. Using the noses it might be worth buying a with the position you have chosen, fine nosed pliers, turn the cotter pin pack of nose templates to help guide take your awl and very gently make down firmly to ensure a tight joint. your stitching. a hole to accommodate the wire backing of the eye - try to insert the You can now joint the limbs using Many people find it easier to start awl between the threads of the back- the position markings but before embroidering the nose from the ing fabric so as to part rather than turning the cotter pins, take a mo- centre and completing one side at a break them - broken threads can ment to check that you are happy time - as with this method you have weaken the fabric. with the positions and make minor something which you are trying to Take a long double length of your adjustments if necessary. replicate to guide you. extra strong thread (or for extra strength you could use a bonded Stuff the body firmly, paying nylon thread) and your 5” doll nee- particular attention to the base of dle, insert the needle at the base of the body making sure that the stuff- the head just above the hardboard ing goes fully into all areas and that joint. Bring the needle out through there are no pockets or puckering the first eye hole, thread the needle of seams. Fill the tummy evenly and through the loop of the glass eye and again pay particular attention to the push the needle back through the upper body, filling the hump and eye hole taking care not to catch the chest firmly as it will be supporting other threads. Pull the needle out the head. 1-2mm from the entry position. Re- peat the process for the second eye. If you would like to add a little Gently pull the two ends which are more weight to your bear you can now hanging from the back of the enclose some steel shot in a little head - but don’t pull too hard or you fabric bag and tuck it into his tummy. may shatter the glass eye. It can help Close the back using ladder stitch if you can gently push the eye into and extra strong thread. the head while pulling the threads at the same time - this is when an as- Now your bear is complete! Just sistant is very useful! give him a good brush and finish When you are happy with the with a ribbon. position of the eyes (pay particular attention to making sure that they are While you are free to make Raffles for your own use, please respect the artist and do not make up the Raffles pattern to sell. www.julieshepherd.com 60 TEDDY BEAR TIMES
BEAR ADVENTURES CAPTAIN BLONDIE - UP, UP AND AWAY Aviation is in my family’s genes and I love taking a couple of rather special bears on some very special adventures, all connected with planes and flying of course M y mum BY EMMA MUNFORD following for the bears is and I just loves hanging Blondie flies - and our very immense. I now have people have a flying into Blackbushe to Flying School at around on the wings own fleet of little aeroplanes have photos taken with their Blackbushe Airport, aeroplanes, it’s just so cool... near Camberley in of Aeroplanes... Phil at our Blackbushe base. Surrey, UK, called I do hope that when you Airfirst. I grew up is a Steiff plush rug We stay away from the big read this the story it makes in aviation and my you smile.... I post a lot of mum has been in bear with the cute airliners as the bears look our adventures on FB and the industry for over 40 usually end with the slogan years. fluffy factor, as op- quite lost on them and to “Nobody does it better” or “The Coolest Bears in Avia- I met an incredibly posed to the slightly be honest, the bears suit tion”. Well, I think so, don’t special Captain a few years you? back, known as Captain arrogant pilot look the smaller size aeroplanes Blondie - he’s an Air Am- bulance Pilot and is just I’ve developed with much better... awesome. Being mainly a collector of Artist Bears, I Captain Blondie... Captain Blondie’s Pilot was lucky enough to have one bear artist make me, Captain Blondie Bear Jackets, flight suits and all shortly after meeting the real Captain Blondie, my takes on the personality that you see him wearing Captain Blondie Bear... and traits of the real Captain are tailor made, as are all Phil the big rug bear is Captain Blondie’s friend and Blondie and while we have the zip tags, I.D cards etc. some awesome adventures, He even wears real Ray all of it connects and links Bans, the sunglasses of the back to Marc (the real Cap- true Aviator and yes, the real tain Blondie), keeping him Captain Blondie wears them close... too! We’ve met the Red Ar- As you can see from the rows and flown in Spitfires. photos, I use Teddy Bear We love really cool registra- Times as a prop for photos tions of aeroplanes, prefer- which goes down amazingly ably on biz and corporate well with Pilots and Instruc- jets. We also love KingAirs tors, they just love it! - that’s what the real Captain We have so much fun; the 61TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
DEAR JULIE Continuing our series of articles to encourage and guide the novice bear maker, this time we look at ways in which we can accentuate the eyes In the last issue I ran out of time BY JULIE SHEPHERD to begin this process before tying the before I could talk about ways to ac- eyes off. It can be added afterwards but centuate the eyes by adding whites, What type of hammer works best? I the snug fit of the eye in the socket can shading and even cording so I’m ‘borrowed’ a small but fairly heavy club- make it difficult to get the shading right going to start by looking at these differ- type hammer from my partner’s tool kit up to the edge of the eye and you might ent options. and it works perfectly. But a lighter ham- find there is a small area all around it mer will work just as well - you might which is impossible to color. You’ll need to decide if you would find you just have to use a bit more force like to add eye-whites before you insert to get a clean cut. I usually put a sheet I find it easiest to loosen the eye and the eyes, as the felt circle needs to be of kitchen towel between the felt and the start the shading from the area which threaded onto the wire loop of the eye. board to avoid the possibility of soiling will be hidden and carefully extend it a or marking the felt, then lay the felt on little beyond where the eye will sit - this To make eye whites you’ll need some top and you’re ready to go. will allow you to add more color seam- white felt (wool felt is best - it’s generally lessly later. thicker and firmer) and if you’re going to Take your hole punch, place the cut- want to add this detail to your bears on ting edge on the felt, making sure that You can use an alcohol marker to cre- a regular basis it may be worth thinking all the cutting rim is in contact with the ate the shading, something like a Copic, about investing in some hole punches. felt and give it a good whack with the Prismacolor or Chameleon pen, but These are available in sets or indi- hammer. It can be difficult to gauge take care as some backing fabrics have vidually and can be bought from a well how much force you need to use so if it a tendency to soak up the color like a known auction site for just a few pounds. doesn’t cut first time, put the punch back sponge and you may find it spreads fur- I bought a set in a range of sizes several in exactly the same position and hit it ther than you intended. If this happens, years ago and they are still cutting as again but a little harder until you achieve you can use a colorless blending pen well as the day I bought them. I’m told a clean cut. to remove some of the excess but from it’s possible to sharpen them but so far it experience I can tell you it can be virtu- hasn’t been necessary. If you find that the circle is being held ally impossible to remove it completely. in the felt by a few fibres, use a pair of A gentle touch is best and remember, You can try cutting circles by hand small sharp scissors to carefully trim it’s much easier to add more color than but bear in mind it’s probably going to through these to release the circle.You’ll struggle to remove it if you’ve used too be quite tricky to get a perfect result as now have a perfectly cut eye-white. much. you’ll be working with small sizes. This is certainly a good way to try out the tech- The next step is to make a hole to Eyelids nique without any financial outlay - you accommodate the wire loop on the back can always buy hole punches later if you of the eye. I usually cut a small slit as this So the eye is inserted but you’d like to find it’s a technique you like. allows for adjustments to be made; just add some eye-lids? There are a number make sure you don’t cut too near the of ways in which to do this but as this If you have bought some hole punch- outside of the circle or you might tear series is aimed at the novice I’m just es you’re going to need a piece of board through the edge. Then thread the eye going to cover the most straightforward to cut onto - I use an offcut of 18mm white over the loop and insert the eye as method. MDF. This provides protection and usual. Before you tie the eyes off, make prevents damage to any surface you’re sure you’re happy with the appearance To create the eyelid you will need cutting on. I usually put the board on the of the eye white - you need an equal some cording - something which is floor and cut there - putting it on a table amount of white showing around each used in jewelry making will be perfect and cutting isn’t really a great idea due eye and you need the white to be sym- and should be easy to source in any to the force you need to use when wield- metrical in both eyes. craft shop. If you use a cording which ing the hammer. has a braided finish it’s probably worth You can also add some shading to accentuate the eye area and it is easiest 62 TEDDY BEAR TIMES
A hole punch will cut perfectly every time. Cutting a small slit Use pins to plan the allows adjustment. position of eye lids. Hole punches are available in a range of sizes. Loosen the eye so color can Cording is available in many varieties be added underneath. and colors. sealing the cut end with a tiny dab of back of the head near the base. Repeat can give a very pleasing look. In time superglue to prevent fraying. Or you can the entire process for the other end of you may even want to add lower lids too make your own cording by cutting very the cording and bring the needle out or explore the possibilities of mould- thin strips of ultrasuede or leather. a millimetre or two from the first stitch. ing eye surrounds using something like Pull gently but firmly and use your awl apoxie sculpt. You need to decide where you would to carefully guide the ends of the cord- like the eyelid to sit; using pins to hold ing into the holes you have made and it So now your bear can see he just the cording in place will help and when should disappear into the head. needs to be able to hear. I have to admit you’re happy, mark the position with that sewing on ears is not one of my pins. Cut your cording about half an Use your fingers to guide the cord- favorite parts of making a bear, prob- inch longer than you need. Thread a thin ing over the top of the eye so that it lays ably because it’s one of those ‘make or needle with a strong thread and insert snuggly against it (it’s vital that the eyes break’ tasks - choosing the wrong posi- the needle through the cording about are embedded into the socket as if they tion can change the whole character of quarter of an inch or so from the cut aren’t, the cording will probably disap- your bear. end. Using a finer needle will put as little pear behind the eye). Some artists find stress as possible on the cording and it helpful to use a very tiny amount of a But before you reach the ‘sewing on’ should prevent splitting or fraying but strong superglue to help hold the cord stage there are so many other choices you’ll need to change to a long needle to in position over the eye.You can then tie to be made. What shape to use, a dif- sew the lid in place. off the threads holding the cording in ferent fabric to line the ear? Shading? place at the back of the head and bury What size? The best position for them, Using your awl, make a small hole in the ends. etc, etc...it’s amazing what an impact one of the pin positions as close to the each choice you make can have on the eye as possible and take your needle Adding eyelids can be quite a fiddly finished character of your bear. in through this hole and out through the process but it’s worth persevering as it Until then, happy sewing! 63TEDDY BEAR TIMES
KNITTING PATTERN Perfect puzzle sweater P uzzled by knitting? Don’t BY JILL MUNDY Next row: P8, P2tog. (9 sts) be! This sweet jumper in ice Next row: K cream colors is made up of Row 6: P14 C, P14 B Next row: P7, P2tog (8 sts) jigsaw puzzle-shaped blocks that Row 7: K14 B, K14 C Next row: K interlink but it’s knitted in simple Row 8: P14 C, P14 B Next Row P stocking stitch so anyone with a basic Repeat rows 7 & 8 once more (10 Next row: Cast off loosely. level of skill can make it. Choose rows) rainbow brights or autumnal hues for Row 11: K12 B, K16 C Back a different look. Row 12: P16 C, P12 B Row 13: K11 B, K17 C With A, cast on 34 sts. Front Row 14: P17 C, P11 B Work 4 rows in K1, P1 rib, as for Row 15: Repeat Row 11 front Cast on 28 sts in A Row 16: Repeat Row 12 Row 5: K17B, K17C Row 1: (K1, P1) to end Row 17: Repeat row 7 Row 6: P17C, P17B Repeat this row 3 times (4 rows) Row 18: Repeat row 8 Row 7: K17B, K17C Row 5: Change to B; K14; Change Row 19: Repeat row 7 Row 8: P17C, P17B to C; K14 Row 20: P6 C, P2 D, P6C, P14 B Repeat rows 7 & 8 once more (10 Row 21: K14 B, K5C, K4 D, K5 C rows) Materials Row 22: P5 C, P4D, P5C, P14B Row 11: K15 B, K19 C (break off C) Row 12: P19 C, P15 B 1 ball each of four colors DK Row 23: K5A, K4B, K5A, K14D Row 13: K14 B, K20 C (light worsted) (I have used Row 24: P14D, P5A, P4B, P5A Row 14: 20 C, P14 B A - blue, B - white, C - pink, D - Row 25: K6A, K2B, K6A, K14D Row 15: Repeat Row 11 yellow) (break off B) Row 16: Repeat Row 12 Row 26: P14D, P14A Row 17: Repeat row 7 Pair 3.25mm (US 3) needles Row 27: K14A, K14D Row 18: Repeat row 8 Bodkin or large-eyed sewing Row 28: P14D, P14A Row 19: Repeat row 7 needle Row 29: K16A, K12D Row 20: P9C, P2D, P6C, P17 B Row 30: P12D, P16A Row 21: K17 B, K5C, K4D, K8C Abbreviations: Row 31: K10A; turn and continue on Row 22: P8C, P4D, P5C, P17B K - knit these stitches only (break off C) P - purl Row 32: P2tog; P to end (9 sts) Row 23: K8A, K4B, K5A, K17D sts - stitches Row 33: K Row 24: P17D, P5A, P4B, P8A tog. - together Row 34: P2tog; P to end (8 sts) Row 25: K9A, K2B, K6A, K17D Cast off - bind off Row 35: K (break off B) M1 - make a new stitch by Row 36: P Row 26: P2tog; P15D, P15A, P2tog. picking up the loop in front of Cast off loosely. Break yarn. (32 sts) the next stitch, place Rejoin yarn to sts on left needle Row 27: K16A, K16D on lefthand needle and knit into and continue as follows: Row 28: P2tog. P14D, P14A, P2tog. the back of it Next row: Cast off 6A, cast off 2D, K (30 sts) to end (10 sts) Break off A 64 TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
KNITTING PATTERN 65TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
KNITTING PATTERN Row 29: K17A, K13D Row 3: Join in B; K Row 9: Join in D; K1, M1, K to last Row 30: P13D, P17A Row 4: P B st; M1, K1 (22 sts) Row 31: K18A, K12D Row 5: Join in C; K Row 32: P12D, P18A Row 6: P C Row 10: P D Row 33: K10A, turn and work on Row 7: K B Row 11: K B these sts only Row 8: P B Row 12: P B Next row: P2tog, P8A Row 13: K A Next row: K Row 14: P A Next row: P2tog, P to end Row 15: K1B, M1, K to last st; M1, Cast off loosely; break yarn K1 (24 sts) Rejoin yarn to remaining sts and Row 16: P B cast off 10 sts; K to end (9 sts) Row 17: K C Next row: P Row 18: P C Next row: K2tog, K to end (8 sts) Cast off using C Next row: P to last 2 sts; P2tog (7 Sew in ends on all pieces; press sts) lightly. Cast off loosely Join shoulder seams Sleeves (make 2) Find center of top of sleeve, place Cast on 20 sts in A at shoulder seam and stitch evenly Work 2 rows in K1, P1 rib to shoulder edge. Join side and sleeve seams Neck Right side facing. Beginning just to one side of center front, pick up and knit 16 sts to center back. Work 3 rows in K1, P1 rib. Cast off in rib Rejoin yarn to center back. Pick up and knit 16 sts to just before center front. Work 3 rows in K1, P1, rib. Cast off in rib. Join center back seam, sew in remaining ends and give the jumper another light press. It is now ready for your bear to wear. 66 TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
the growler GIVE YOUR BEAR A VOICE. ‘GREAT GROWL’ OF THE MONTH WINS A HERMANN BEAR. EMAIL [email protected] tary one. Here he is wear- True love ing the first one I made him - I also love steam trains so Dear Growler I had to make him one with those on. I have always loved Sarah Hall bears and am lucky Growler: Harry looks won- enough to have collected derful in his waistcoat. We think you’re definitely on a few over the years; not the right track and would be steaming ahead of your too many but enough competitors if you were on The Sewing Bee! to take up space in a Darling donkey shared house.When I GGRREOAWT L Best pal Dear Growler first met my husband, I As a teddy bear collec- kept my love of bears Dear Growler I’d like to introduce you tor, I am always amazed at a secret. I rather liked the different styles of bears to my good friend, Bertram and other animals that are him you see and did not want him running for Bartholomew Bear. He likes available. We all have our to make new friends with own favorites and your the hills, if he thought I was a little odd. people and visit Asquith’s magazine is good at includ- bear shop in Henley on ing a broad range to suit As I became more sure of our relationship, I told Thames. He’s 25 years all tastes so imagine how young and traveling is his delighted I was to see the him about my bear collection. He did not express favorite hobby. feature about Jutta Michels. an opinion either way and so I have always won- Ray Parsons What an incredible talent - and all her animals look so dered how he felt about my collection.We got Growler: Great to meet you realistic. It is hard to choose Bertram Bartholomew Bear! a favorite but if pushed, the married in November 2018 and when we moved Thanks for the introduction Ray. He looks a very dap- into our new house, I took my bears with me, in per gent. boxes, which is where they stayed while I waited Harry’s waistcoats for the right time to see where they could go.We Dear Growler Watching the new series had so much more to think about before Christ- of The Sewing Bee on BBC2 mas, with moving in and just getting some sense of TV made me want to get sewing but I don’t sew for order before the season’s celebrations. me, I sew for my bears. I make jackets and also, in Then on Christmas morning, my husband pre- Harry’s case, waistcoats. I’ve just started an Easter sented me with a box tied in ribbon and inside one; he already has a Christmas one and a mili- was this beautiful bear with a note which said ‘This bear is a social animal and needs company so make sure he has lots of friends.’ In his own way, my husband had picked up on my dilemma and told me that he is alright with my love of bears. My collection is now sitting on shelves in a spare room, complete with my new mistletoe bear, Alfie. There is a magic to Christmas and I certainly felt it last year. Claudia Adley donkey or Easter duckling ied and fabulous magazine, get my vote. keep up the good work! Thank you for such a var- Dotty Bluette 67TEDDY BEAR TIMES
SHOW RECAP 68 TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
SHOW RECAP BEARS WITH A MISSION A new teddy bear show was on a mission to win over the hearts of teddy bear artists and collectors on the West Coast and across the US. The Bears with a Mission first annual show went on without a hitch! A new teddy bear activities on the Friday the show an all day event. lectors about the new San show was on a mis- before the show. Along To add to the fun and Diego show and the beauti- sion to win over the with a few collectors, artists ful new venue. Many of the hearts of teddy bear artists enjoyed a field trip to The excitement of the day, door collectors stopped by the and collectors on the West Birch Aquarium followed by prizes (including several table as they were leaving Coast and across the US. dinner at The Fish Market artist bears) were given and asked for our promise The Bears with a Mission on Friday. away every half hour. “Each that we would be back next first annual show went on of the artists/dealers had year. It was good to know without a hitch! These activities allowed donated something for the how many people really people to spend more time raffle table and those beau- want to have a show in San The new San Diego together with friends they tiful creations were a hit with Diego and how much they Teddy Bear Show, Bears have made over the years the collectors,” says Marsha enjoyed the experience of with a Mission, took place and to have more time Sawyer, one of the organiz- Bears with a Mission.” at the Courtyard Marriott to build new friendships. ers of the show. in Liberty Station, Califor- Everyone is looking forward Bears with a Mission will nia on January 12, 2019. to being at the show again The proceeds from raffle definitely be back next year The one day trunk show next year. ticket sales, along with ad- with the same mission, in had a friendly and relaxed ditional free will donations, the same place, and with a atmosphere. Collectors attending the went to Gray Whales Count, few more artists. Also, as a Artists, dealers show enjoyed an organization doing sneak peek, next year the and collectors all the new venue research & conservation of Friday field trip will be a deemed it a suc- and the free the California Gray Whale. whale watching excursion! cess! admission. The “It was very satisfying to see complimentary people so eager to help that Stay tuned for more Thrilled with refreshments cause,” Marsha added. In details on the second an- the new venue during the total, the show raised over nual Bears with a Mission and style of the show as well $400 for the organization. show in San Diego, CA. For show, artists had as a place to more information, visit www. a wonderful time sit and visit “The best part of being bearswithamission.com or and especially encouraged on the welcoming table,” email bearswithamission@ enjoyed the added them to make Marsha shared, “Was seeing gmail.com the excitement from the col- 69TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
MEET THE ARTIST fe s e el o e for o o ears Some things may have changed in more than two decades but one thing is for sure…the passion for making bears and other creatures grows and grows BY YOLANDA LEVY THE BEAR FACTS: M y name isYolanda I use resin clay to sculpt Levy and my trade some of the features. I love Yo Yo Bears By Yolanda Levy name is YoYo Bears. sculpting the muzzles with web: www.yoyobears.com I live in the United rope mohair or loose hand email: [email protected] States, in the city of Winches- carded wool because it call: 001 760 567 9619 ter, California. gives the bear’s features texture and dimension. 70 TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS I’ve been in the teddy bear industry for over 24 My bears are sold through years. I started making teddy teddy bear magazines; I bears because they were, and still are, also sell them on my website: yoyo- a comforter to me because of on the bears.com and the new website that job injuries that ended my 14-year I created TeddyBearsRus.com. This career as a law enforcement police free website is where artists can cre- officer. My world was turned upside ate their own store to showcase their down. It was during this time that I felt beautiful bears. If they make other at peace when I hugged a small teddy animals besides bears, this is a place bear that my family gave me in order where everyone is welcome. to cheer me up. Of all of the bears that I have made over the years, my favorite is my polar Now I create teddy bears and other bear, Tornasuuk. furry friends full time. The bears and Today, my design ideas come most- friends that I create are not traditional. ly from things that I see and read in I have a unique style, leaning more books. I love to read and study books towards realistic designs. I make one- on different types of wild animals. I of-a-kind pieces because I like variety kept Tornasuuk the polar bear - it was and I want my collectors to have some- just something about him. He was thing that no one else will have. so realistic that I just couldn’t bring myself to sell him, even though people My favorite materials, that I use a lot, wanted to buy him. I guess you can say are leather, faux fur, mohair, resin clay, that he has a special place in my heart. hand carded wool, German glass eyes, I do not usually enter award contests lock line PVC armature and wire. but in 2015 I did enter and won a Toby Industry Choice Award for my teddy The bears I made in the beginning bear, Amadeus. were more on the character side, with In the future I plan to continue to props. They had polymer clay sculpted evolve and learn from others as an faces, cloth paws and inner ears. I now artist. I am currently learning how to strive for more realism - the bears needle sculpt different animals using have a body skeleton for movement in different directions. All of my bears have leather Trapunto paws.
MEET THE ARTIST wool from start to finish. I’m also in the process of making YouTube videos showing some of the different tech- niques that I have used on my bears over the years. My ultimate goal is to provide a free place at TeddyBearsRus.com where artists and collectors can come togeth- er to sell their work, share ideas, ask questions, give advice and showcase their work through forums, videos, artist interviews and contests, where everyone can vote for their favorite bears and friends for prizes, along with having their work featured. The website is growing all the time, so do come and take a look. 71TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
MEET THE ARTIST Take a stroll through a garden of Jazzbears Virginia Jasmer has been creating teddy bears for 35 years, and the love for her unique bears grows every day BY LAUREN C. NIELSEN R eadily recognized for their lov- closet contains the first I am currently enjoy the continued connections. One ing looks, Jazzbears took center using,” Virginia says, “It’s a small but such friend is Candi Taylor, who Virgin- stage in in Virginia Jasmer’s life cozy, organized space that allows me ia greatly admires and who “continues in 1984. From Springfield, Or- to watch the seasons change and work to create amazing, realistic pieces.” egon, Virginia discovered a pattern for while listening to books on tape.” a jointed teddy bear at a quilting store When creating, Virginia prefers and made her first bear right after. Virginia likes to describe her bears using German mohair and recycled as “whimsical, feminine” and having mink. “I love the most dense, curly, While also making teddy bears, “a puppy dog’s charm.” To create this colorful mohairs,” she tells us, “and I Virginia worked as a Public School look, Virginia works on her bears in the enjoy combining furs to give the look Speech and Language therapist for 30 afternoons and evenings. of the bear wearing clothing. I also years. She is now retired and makes enjoy creating bears from fur coats that Jazzbears from the smallest room in In the past, when she used to family members have worn.” their house, overlooking their back- travel to 12-15 shows per year, Virginia yard and flower garden. would put in many more hours than Her most valuable tool is a stuffing she currently does. Virginia and her stick that she purchased in Germany. It Virginia’s signature bears are her husband, Fred, “enjoyed many marve- was designed to stuff with excelsior. “I Flower Bears. The inspiration for these lous years at shows throughout the U.S. couldn’t stuff without it,” she adds. flower bears came from her experi- and Europe. We certainly miss those ence working with children. “I recalled busy, fun-filled years and the many col- Looking to the future, Virginia be- the child in school who could not lectors we met.” lieves that avid collectors will always sing or dance and who was happy to collect but is concerned that younger be dressed as a flower or tree,” she They do, however, maintain those generations will not enjoy collecting. recalls. friendship made at shows and quite “It is sad,” she says, “ to see that many do not even want the special items that From azaleas to zinnias, Virginia’s would remind them of their favorite Flower Bears are her favorite style of family member.” bears to make. Another artist friend, Deanna Ellis has collaborated with Despite this, Virginia still carries on Virginia on a multiple pairs of Flower creating teddy bears as it gives her bears such as ‘Two Peonies in a Pod.’ pleasure. She loves that teddy bears “A few collectors have entire gardens symbolize love and that there are of Jazzbear Flowers that bring them endless possibilities for artists as new pleasure every day,” she tells us. designs continue to emerge. There’s no doubt that these Flower THE BEAR FACTS: bears also get some inspiration from her workspace’s garden view. “Shelves Jazzbears.com surround the window, cabinets over- Virginia Jasmer call: 541-746-2175 flow with ribbons, and a large pine email: [email protected] email: Springfield, Oregon USA “Virginia still carries on creating teddy bears as it gives her pleasure.” 72 TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
SHOW PREVIEW 73TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
A THEMED COLLECTION Soldier bears will have you standing to attention Sometimes just one single bear can spark a passion for collecting more bears around a particular theme, such as these special little bruins that are steeped in history A llow me to introduce you to BY PATRICIA HALL white, blue or blond teddy bears, all the wonderful world of soldier with the short, bristly plush coats, bears. Many collectors now are Soldier bears have short, spiky pointed noses, wired ears and pinned running out of space for big plush coats, pointed noses, pipe clean- limbs. Before long there was a mag- bears and I have previously expressed er ears and they have joints which are nificent collection of bears ready for my own enthusiasm for miniature pinned rather than jointed since they any adventures the boys had in store bears because they slip in among the are so tiny. Although they came in a for them. Guy once remarked: “…the bigger bruins or in pockets of large variety of colors, red, white or blue, bears were our one joy”. bears or sit quietly in display cases. the more common ones are a golden beige or neutral color. There were also The bears, dressed in uniform, took So, a necessary part of any seri- black ones but these are the rarest and part in battles the boys had learned ous collection of miniature bears is tend to be decorated to resemble cats about, such as between the Round- a soldier bear. They have become a with whiskers. heads and the Cavaliers. Sometimes valuable collectible item and come up the bears became sailors; sometimes at auction, on websites and on eBay. Bears of distinction they were gangsters or sportsmen. The bears lived in a suitcase so that wher- These bears are also popular items Some of the most famous of these ever the boys went, the bears were for collectors of First World War memo- little Farnell bears belonged to twin ready to travel with them. rabilia; they will sit well among the par- brothers Guy and David Campbell, aphernalia. So, let me take you back in who were born in 1910. The boys Bears during wartime time to the First World War to meet the spent most of their holidays with their Farnell soldier or mascot bear. grandmother in Devon or in South These little bears really did go to Wales and she gave them tiny red, war, when Colonel Sir Guy Campbell Let’s go back to the start and Major E F David Campbell went on to become distinguished soldiers in The little bear was produced by World War II. Each twin had a special English company, J.K. Farnell in 1914 bear: David’s was ‘Grubby’, Guy’s and onwards. A good example of a bear, ‘Young’ and they escorted them collectible soldier bear is fully jointed during their time fighting in the war. and stands three and a half inches tall. When the brothers were awarded Mili- He will still have his original glass eyes tary Crosses for bravery, their favorite and a good covering of mohair, if he bears became Grubby MC and Young has been well looked after. MC. Because they are so small and After the war, when Guy and Da- were often owned by adults, they do vid returned home, these two special not tend to have lost their mohair as a bears remained their constant com- child’s teddy would have done. Some- panions for the rest of their lives. Both times they will be accompanied by a bears were sent to the Puppenhaus- vintage handkerchief, an old coin or a museum in Basel, Switzerland. These small contemporary tin, which adds to two battle-worn companions reside the historic interest of the bear. 74 TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
A THEMED COLLECTION there, along with photographs and think quite a few of us would have liked original sketches drawn by the twins. to have taken him home. Unfortunately for us, the tiny bear finally realized In 1999, 398 tiny bears were sold at £1,000 for the third and final time at Sotheby’s in London, to Leanda Har- Christie’s. That’s a huge price for a tiny wood, a well known and well respected bear that could hide in a paper cup – bear dealer. Leanda divided the bears about £300 an inch! into eighty-one red, white and blue sets like this which were packaged to- My soldier bears collection gether with the suitcase, booklets and swing tags and soon became the must- The first soldier bear I bought was have for any serious bear collector. from a small toy fair where the dealer sold me a grubby little article, as- Another famous soldier bear used suring me it was a Steiff bear. Being to be part of the collection in the Strat- a newcomer to bears, I bought it on ford- upon-Avon museum, so when trust. However, when I got it home and Christie’s sold the contents of the mu- looked at the Teddy Encyclopaedia, I seum in 2007, the final lot of the sale found he was one of these really old was the little Farnell bear. soldier bears – a real bargain for less than a hundred pounds. Because they His story was told in The Teddy Bear were originally sold for less than a Hall of Fame by Michele Brown who shilling, his name became Bob (pre- was the co-owner of the Museum and decimalisation in the UK, one shilling it appears that the bear was bought by was often called one bob). a child in 1917, from a six-penny stall in the Old Brompton Road. A while later, I heard the marve- lous story of the Campbell bears and Seventy-one years later, that ‘child’ decided I had to have one of the single had asked Christie’s to sell the bear blond bears – so I contacted Leanda and on 4 February 1988, ‘Lot 116’ went to the Stratford Teddy Bear Museum. I 75TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
A THEMED COLLECTION Harwood to ask her to bring a choice The cat’s whiskers of them to the next Hugglets fair and I picked the one with the cutest face. Having found the bears, I then want- He had his own miniature handmade ed a black cat to complete the col- leather suitcase to live in and came lection. I had seen them come up for with his history book. auction at Christie’s a couple of times and they had gone under the hammer Famous names for £500 at least, a lot of money for a small chap. I decided I would like to have a red one – so I got Linda and then Lenny, It was at Hugglets Teddies 2007 that then Captain Scarlet, all beautiful red I saw the cat of my dreams but there bears, each with an individual person- had to be a hitch – he was one of a ality. group with a red and a beige soldier bear. I did not need another red sol- The more I look at the soldier bears, dier bear – I already had four! So after the more I realize how different they the fair was over, I contacted the seller all are. The battalion includes a young and asked if she would be prepared to lady called Katy Kitchener – who has a split the set and let me have the black little knitted dress and a really appeal- cat. I was delighted when she agreed ing face and her companion, Friede- and Jack Black made his home in a mann, a pacifist bear who has spent Black Cat cigarette tin. I am told that most of his life in Germany. Another one lucky black cat sold at Christies arrived dressed in a little summer for nearly £1,000! dress and in her own small toffee tin decorated with Nursery Rhymes - and They sometimes come up on eBay so she became Mary, Mary. but will be expensive and you cannot examine their condition. I suppose it was only a matter of time before I was to get a set of There are several really excellent ‘Campbell Bears’. There were only vintage bear websites on the Internet eighty-one of the sets, so they are where soldier bears can be found but not easy to get hold of but I had my I would recommend that you go to see chance at Christie’s auction in 2006 these dealers at a bear fair or visit an when a lovely set of extremely pretty auction house if you can; compare the bears came up for sale. And they were soldiers and have a look at their little so easy to get home! faces to see which one you like best. After all, a bear is for life. 76 TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
MEET THE ARTIST There’s no standing still for Natalie Sweenikle Bears have been wowing collectors for six years now and Natalie Standing, their creator, credits their success to constantly refreshing her ideas and tweaking her designs BY SYLVIA YOUNG; PHOTOGRAPHS BY NATALIE STANDING N atalie Standing is Sweenikle luxury faux fur. My absolute favorite preneur and started promoting her Bears’ creator. She is currently material to work with is dense curled, Sweenikle Bears on social media, based in Crawley, West Sussex wavy mohair.” which has been her most useful and but for a time Natalie lived in successful marketing tool to date. “One London where most of the Sweenikle Discoveries concept I struggled with was getting journey began. She first began bear my face out there enough that every- making about six years ago and fell Natalie’s most exciting discovery one would take notice of the bears and instantly in love with it. was very early on in her bear mak- recognise my creations at bear events. ing journey. “It was the moment I hand It was a process that took dedication Natalie, who is ever resourceful, painted eyes for the first time and set and patience. There were times that I decided to create her own inimitable them in place. The depth of character felt my work wasn’t good enough or look, together with her own brand of and expression from a simple change unique enough. But as I got talking to bears. With a unique and memorable blew me away and it wasn’t long wonderful people I found that my con- name she set out on her beary journey. before I decided never to go back to fidence grew and I now have my own “Like so many wonderful artists before black eyes.” little Sweenikle family. I look forward to me I, continue to create and do what seeing them at events and speaking to I love. I dove straight in by creating a Natalie is a very savvy entre- them online. I can’t thank them enough website and working on a distinctive for their kindness and loyalty,” smiled look. Once I had finished my web- Natalie. site and I had a few bears in stock, I decided to launch. I was terrified but I Advice for beginners was met by such a great response that things just grew from there. I had a lot “I would advise any novice bear of advice from great fellow Bear Artist maker to be brave and to dare to go friends, whose support has been in- for it. Get yourself out there and always valuable and I wouldn’t be where I am keep learning.Your work will get bet- today without them,” smiled Natalie. ter and better and your confidence will grow so much that one day you will “I was so excited when I first start- be amazed at what you have created. ed making bears that I went through You will look back and may cringe a every sort of fabric out there. I started bit at your earlier creations but it will with mohair but quickly found my all have been a part of this wonderful way to faux fur because of the sheer furry journey,” laughed Natalie. choice of textures and colors. Faux fur is great for character pieces and Natalie’s favorite part of bear mak- easier to sculpt in to faces. But nothing ing is sculpting the face and setting the beats the finish you get with mohair eyes. “I love creating a character out of or alpaca and the feel of the finished something that starts as a ball of fluff to character. I now work mostly with a beautiful face staring back at you. It mohair, alpaca and very occasionally never gets old.” 77TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
MEET THE ARTIST ‘ It can be difficult to juggle so many things ‘ with little time. Future plans Natalie likes to make changes every year and to evolve her bear designs. She wants to encourage and make sure that her creative juices just keep on flowing. “One year I changed the arm shape and another I decided to start dressing my bears. It’s only recently that I made a drastic change and decided to move on from the soul- ful shaded expression that my whole look was based around and move on to something more realistic and with extra detail. “I also plan to develop my new look and learn even more bear mak- ing techniques. Although this year I will only be attending one event, I will endeavour to add more events to my calendar next year.” In addition, “I love creating famous characters and themed pieces so I definitely will be creating a few more of those,” said Natalie. In addition to creating her beary creations, Natalie works 40-50 hours per week. “It can be difficult to juggle so many things with little time. My best advice to those in the same position is to structure your time and have realis- tic expectations. Make time for your- self, family and friends and do what you enjoy and the bears will reflect your own happiness. It’s a piece of your heart and your life you are putting into these creations so give yourself time and enjoy every second.” Natalie has found inspiration from many cartoon characters. “Two years ago I was hugely inspired by ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ by Tim Burton for my Halloween collection. I had such fun making my very own versions of Jack Skellington and Sally. There’s always some inspiration that’s lurking around the corner. It’s just tak- ing the time to discover where your creations will take you next,” conclud- ed Natalie. 78 TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
SWEENIKLE BEARS SHOWCASE 79TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
OLD BEARS Left: A 1940/50s American bear. Right: An unusual ginger bear from the 1950s. Keep a look out for the more unusual bears It has to be said that some bears over the years have not been as popular as most; Andy Greetham of Bourton Bears advises what to look out for E very now and again we come As the teddy craze continued, manu- so different from the traditional teddy across bears that do not fit into facturers looked for ways of making bear style. British bears also became the cute and cuddly mould their bears different and this accounted adventurous, with several manufactur- or have an unusual look about them. for many unusual creations. We saw ers making Dutch-style bears with big These characters are not always as bright-colored bears, musical bears, balloon-shaped legs, bears made of popular as some of the familiar faces odd-shaped bears, walking bears brightly-colored mohair and others or bears by recognized manufacturers and even talking bears. As makers with unusual musical movements. and they can often be purchased at looked for yet more new designs and reasonable prices. gimmicks to make their bears stand Quite a number of teddy bears were out from the rest, our unusual bears also designed for practical uses and In the 1930s some American manu- were born. And because a lot of these these included the famous 1907 Steiff facturers made bears with unusual designs did not sell in vast quanti- hot water bottle bear where a metal googly eyes and these creatures are ties, they are therefore quite scarce in water bottle was filled with hot water quite rare today as many children today’s old bear market. and put inside the bear to keep you were frightened by eyes that moved warm at night. Another idea was the or stared at them. I think these googly Many of the early American bears use of bears as covers for children’s eyes are fun and add a great deal of had large ears and short muzzles, giv- gas masks during the war - this made character to the bear. ing them a very mousy look which is the prospect of putting on the mask 80 TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
OLD BEARS ‘ ‘ British bears also became adventurous with several makers introducing Dutch-style bears with big balloon-shaped legs. Left: A 1930s Boogle Eyes bear. Below: A 1930s Merrythought Dutch bear. less frightening for the child. Even baby’s bottles had covers made in a bear shape to keep the milk warm. All of these examples can be found today and while you may not be able to afford a rare 1907 Steiff hot water bottle bear at a cost of many thousands of pounds, you may be able to pick up a Merrythought Dutch bear or an unusual American bear for an awful lot less. In a world full of cute Chads, Chilterns and traditional Ger- man bears, I think it is great to be adventurous and add a couple of the more unu- sual characters to a collec- tion. And who knows? - Many teddy bears with a difference were made in such few numbers that they may prove to be a shrewd investment. So, consider looking out for something different! 81TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
TEDDY TALK COLLECTOR MARK ALLEN JOINS US AGAIN TO TALK MORE ABOUT TEDDY BEAR COLLECTING. Hi Mark! Thanks for joining us again. that have special meaning, that make Tell us about your collection since we you happy. You’ll never be disappointed. last spoke. Collecting teddy bears is the greatest hobby in the world! I can’t What are your current thoughts on the imagine I would ever stop. Since the last teddy bear industry? One of the main time we talked, I’ve had the chance to things is the need to focus on a younger add 30 or 40 pieces to my collection. collector base. We need to attract new collectors into the industry, people that What are some of those new acquisi- are 20, 30 years old. It’s not going to be tions? Any stories behind them? I be- an easy task. But we must expand the lieve I mentioned before that I was going collector base if the industry is going to try and concentrate more on antiques to survive and flourish. Along those and vintage items. I’ve been able to ac- same lines, we need to rethink the entire quire several older Steiff pieces including process of our shows, sales and conven- 17” Harry and 21” Lillian. They are both tions. The formats are old, tired and stale. from the early 1950’s and in really great Refreshing the process should go a long condition for their age. way toward attracting new collectors to the industry. I also had American artist Jackie Mel- erski work on some very special custom What up-and-coming trends have you pieces for me, bears made to honor our noticed from a collector’s standpoint? American Eskimo dogs, Anze & Whitney. I’ve noticed that artists are really step- I’ve always liked Jackie’s ‘steampunk’ ping outside the box with their designs, giving style and she was able to combine that with a dog collectors a lot of exciting non-traditional choices. theme. What she came up with was absolutely These bears should appeal to a lot of different incredible. people and help expand the collector base. There seems to be a global emergence of talented artists Do you have any new favorite pieces? I don’t too, some from places I hadn’t previously consid- know if they are my favorites quite yet but the ered. People like Anna Rita of Ukraine, Olga Koval- Anze and Whitney bears that Jackie made for me chuk and Sventlana Denickova of Russia and many are pretty special. Any dog lover will tell you what others from all over the world are creating some special friends and companions they can be. After really exciting pieces for collectors. Anze passed away, my wife Francie and I thought it would be great if we could honor his memory Thank you, Mark for joining us once again! somehow. I thought a teddy bear would be perfect. You can read all about his collection in TBT 224. Jackie did such a phenomenal job. It’s something we’ll cherish forever. ● Are you interested in being a part of our Teddy Talk feature? Contact our US Editor, Lauren at Any advice for collectors who are just start- [email protected] for more informa- ing to grow their collections? Collect with your tion! heart. Go after pieces you like, that appeal to you, “I thought a teddy bear would be perfect.” 82 TEDDY BEAR TIMES & FRIENDS
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