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 size and the condition of the coat
The longer and more dense the fur...the larger the bear
For example, 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 hand stitch.
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 so I avoid these areas
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 I receive the furs
If you wish your teddy bears for Christmas gift giving
order early in the year to avoid disappointment
$195 for Each Bear Created From Your Fur
Your Choice of Size, no difference in price...after all, it is your fur!
Remnants will be returned if requested
Each bear is lined with muslin for extra strength and durability
Handblown glass eyes, embossed or flocked noses
Ultra suede 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 (head, arms and legs to move)
Stuffed with polyfil and ground glass is added to the belly and paws
for a 'weighted feel'
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)
A stole can be created from the coat's contrasting collar ($25)
One-of-a-kind handcrafted hats can be added...choice of colours, vintage materials and size depends on availability ($35)
Eye glasses can be added $10 each
Once your keepsake is completed you name your bear
(usually the person receiving the teddy or the name of the original owner of the coat)
This is printed along with it's details
onto a 'hang tag' which is secured to the back of each bear
Customers find it easiest to mail their furs by regular parcel mail
If you choose courier, any broker fees charged to me to accept delivery will be added to your invoice
If shipping your fur across the US/Canada border
enter 'Gift' and 'Used Coat' on the customs label
(It is a gift since your fur is not being purchased)
Enter $5 value not your sentimental value as fees (duty) to accept delivery is calculated on the value you enter on the label
For my Canadian clients, Canada Post offers flat rate shipping boxes ($19-$32 for medium to large boxes)
Fold your coat as small as possible & place in the box
(I will hang your fur when it arrives)
The purchase of the box is the cost to ship
Once your order is completed I will email you photos
I will calculate actual shipping charges based on your location
A tracking number will be provided when shipped
Payment is appreciated prior to shipping
I accept Paypal, Email Transfers & Personal Cheques
Please contact me for my complete shipping address and/or if you have any questions or wish more details
Please Note: My crafted friends are not designed for children. Glass eyes, noses and trims can be hazardous to small children
Please place your bear away from heat, direct sunlight, smoke, strong cooking odours curious fingers and the family pet!
Do not place your teddy in plastic bags to store~he just can't breathe!! (and plastic dries out the pelts)
