I take pride in the quality and workmanship crafted into each of my bruins...each has its' own individual charm and personality, no two are alike...even when created from the same fur coat.
A full length coat can usually be transformed into more than one teddy, depending on the sizes you desire and the condition of the coat.
The longer the fur length...the larger the bear...one 22" bear can be created from a fox fur jacket due to the length and fullness of the fur.
Whereas, four sometimes six 15" bears can be created from a full length mink.
A stole will usually transform into two 10"or one 15" teddy.
A jacket will produce one 22" or three 15" teddy bears
Unfortunately I can no longer create teddy bears from coyote, raccoon or shearlings (mouton) as the pelts are too thick to handstitch.
Persian Lamb furs can usually be transformed into more teddy bears than a mink fur coat of similar size and style.
Pattern pieces must be placed in one direction with furs such as mink otherwise your bear will look like it is having a 'bad hair day'.
Each coat is unique to it's construction details...placement of pockets, collars and pleats can decrease the amount of fur available.
Areas such as the seat and elbows can be worn.
If the coat is brittle or dry it will not be suitable to sew
Give it the 'scrunch' test...
Is the fur soft and supple or is it dry and brittle?
Most importantly, the size of the coat will determine the number of bears that can be created.
More teddy bears and/or larger teddy's can be created
from a ladies size 18 than that of a ladies size 6!
Each heirloom teddy bear receives individual attention and takes hours to complete.
The length of time to complete your bears
depends upon the number already on order~please expect 8-10 weeks
Bears are completed in the order that I receive the Furs
$165 for Each Bear Created From Your Fur...Your Choice of Size...No Difference in Price...After all, It Is Your Fur!
'If You Wish Your Teddy Bears for Christmas Gift Giving Please Order Early In The Year so You Won't Be Disappointed'
Remnants will be returned if requested
Each bear is lined with muslin for extra strength and durability
Handblown German glass eyes, embossed or flocked noses, ultrasuede paws or paws can be created from the coat's lining
Monograms from inside the coat can be added to a paw
Each is fully jointed allowing the head, arms and legs to move
The bear is then stuffed with polyfil and ground glass is added to the belly and paws for a 'nice weighted feel' which will also allow your teddy to stand
Included with each bear is your choice of lace collars, bows, pearls or perhaps a string of rusty bells 'round their necks to adorn.
Larger bears can be dressed in Grandma's Baptism gown
Vests can be created from fleece ($10 each)
Bows can be created from the coat's lining ($10 each)
Stoles from the coat's contrasting collar can also be created and placed on your heirloom ($20), perhaps secured with one of Grandma's favourite brooch?
One-of-a-kind handcrafted hats can be added...choice of colors, vintage materials and size depends on availability ($25)
Eye glassess can be added for $8.00 each
'Handcrafted from Grandma's
'Previously Enjoyed' Mink Fur Coat'
Once your heirloom is completed you name your bear
(usually the person receiving the teddy or the name of the original owner of the coat)
This is then printed along with it's details
onto a 'hang tag' which is secured to the back of each bear
You ship your coat to me.
Most of my customers use regular surface mail.
If crossing the US/Canada border, on the customs slip write 'Old Coat',
Enter a Realistic Value ($1-$5)~Not Your Sentimental Value
Otherwise, fees incurred will be added to your invoice.
If you choose courier, any broker fees to accept delivery will be added to your invoice.
Once your order is completed I will email you photos of your heirlooms.
I will calculate actual shipping charges based on your location.
A tracking number will be provided when shipped.
I ship by Canada Post Expedited Parcel
Payment is appreciated prior to shipping
I accept Paypal, Email Transfers and Personal Cheques
Please contact me for my complete shipping address and/or if you have any questions or wish more details