Teddy Bear Times Magazine

We love hearing stories of how people unlocked their potential for bear making. This issue Alice Wardill of Daisy Bears tells us how she discovered hers during lockdown.
“I was looking for something to do and, having enjoyed making cuddly toys as a youngster, decided to try a jointed bear. I ordered a kit online and attempted my first bear. Well! It was laughable — eyes askew, ears slightly wonky, nose and mouth mis-shaped… oooh dear! But I’d caught the bug. I tried again, gradually improving until my skills and confidence escalated, and my passion really took off.”
Alice had worked as an office administrator for 40 years but was able to take early retirement. She said: “Now I am footloose and fancy-free, spending all my spare time creating and selling bears — a dream I never imagined before Covid struck.” Read more about her journey on P 22.
Linda Benson is still making bears 44 years after finding a book on toy making in her local library. She liked the teddy bear on the cover and decided she could make one just like it. She couldn’t stop at one so hunted for fake fur coats at charity shops to supply her with the necessary fabric.
After a lifetime of bear-making Linda is still going strong, although she admits: “My ageing body would not cope with that level of production anymore, so now I simply make what I want, with no pressure. I mostly design new bears and animals for teaching. I really enjoy workshops and passing on my knowledge and skills.”
Lots more people inside this issue who love sharing their inspiring stories, their knowledge of bear history and their creating skills. We hope you enjoy reading about all of them.