by Bronwen Cleathero

Created on: January 04, 2007   Last Updated: March 17, 2011

Most people who see artist bears can't even fathom where to begin. The intricate details look overwhelming and if you are like I was, maybe don't know how to sew at all. This article is here to help you take the first step.

The best way to start is to start with someone else's pattern. Using these patterns as a starting point will allow you to learn how the pieces go together and what it takes to design a bear. Some people will only make one or two using someone else's patterns and others continue for many bears to come, changing little bits of the pattern so they can see the effects their changes make.

There are many patterns available free on the internet but the pattern you choose should list all materials and an indicate if it is suitable for a beginner.
You must remember though You MUST NOT sell a bear using a pattern that does not belong to you.

Patterns will indicate if the seam allowance is included and in most cases patterns include a seam allowance of about 5mm. They will indicate what areas to leave open and any darts that will be needed. They will show where legs and arms should be connected to the body and all of these marks should be transferred to the fur.

Do not choose a tiny bear under 6 inches, they come with their own set of problems including trying to sew and attach tiny ears and turning the bears once you have finished sewing which requires its own special set of tools The bigger the bear the easier it is to make. Don't go too far the other way though a 29 inch bear takes a lot of stuffing.

Most people don't want to pay a fortune on their first bear BUT ensure the fur you purchase doesn't stretch too much, this will affect how your bear looks when finished. Most furs used for bears don't have a huge amount of stretch in them allowing the creator to control the outcome of the appearance of the bear. If you have purchased fur and discovered that it has too much stretch, line it with muslin or any light material you have on hand. Grab a glue stick and glue the material to the back of your fur.

Trace the pattern onto the back of the fur following the arrows with the lie of the fur. The fur will have a direction normally unless of course it is very short pile you can tell the lie of the fur by rubbing your hand in different directions. If it lies smooth and flat under your hand that is the direction of the fur. Make sure you flip the pieces to get your mirror image you need.

When you cut into the fur make sure you take small cuts and slide it under the fur length. This ensures a neat seam especially in longer pile furs.
The fur may be looking a little battered we will deal with this once the bear is sewn. You are now ready for the next step.

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