December

2011
Features
6

Volume 26, Number 6

TBR
Teddy Bear Review

Crafting Compassion By Sharon Verbeten Wisconsin artist Pat Berkowitch brings feeling to every bear

6 11

11 Paw-terns Plus By Janice Woodard Joyau to the World a festive 8-inch bear you can make for the holidays 16 And the Winner Is See the winning creations in this years Golden Teddy Awards 26 Tis the Season By Stephanie Finnegan Bear artists share their holiday creations and their personal principles 34 2012 Golden Teddy Awards Its time to start thinking about your entries for next years competition! 39 Tracking the Market By Dee Hockenberry Its time to say goodbye 41 TBR Turns 25! A look back at 25 years of Teddy Bear Review!

Departments
5 24 31 32 32 33 33 Editors Den Portraits The Tail End Letters Ursine Occasions Event Calendar Ad Index

On the Cover: Tori was made by Pat Berkowitch of

Babcock Bears. The 10-inch bear was made from German Schulte mohair with German glass eyes, adorned with a crystal beaded necklace and matching silk ribbons. Turn to page 9 to find out how you could win Tori, #1 in a limited edition of three!
Teddy Bear Review (ISSN 0890-4162) is published bimonthly by Jones Publishing Inc., N7528 Aanstad Rd., P.O. Box 5000, Iola, WI 54945-5000. Telephone: (715) 445-5000. Periodical postage paid at Iola, WI, and at additional mailing offices. Copyright 2011 by Jones Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. Reprint permission must be granted in writing. Publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Teddy Bear Review, P.O. Box 5000, Iola, WI 54945. Subscription problems and inquiries should be directed to (800) 331-0038, ext. 1; outside the US: (715) 445-5000. Subscription price in the US for 1 year (6 issues) is $29.95. Please add $15 per year in US funds for postage to foreign countries. All subscriptions are by surface mail only. Therefore, adequate time must be allowed for service to start. Printed in U.S.A.

26

B T

& DOLLS

EAR OTTOM OYS

Sue Serio
SueSerio@gmail.com Tue - Fri 12-5, Sat 10-4 Closed on Sun & Mon

Steiff Club Store

814 Genesee Street - Delafield, WI 53018 262.646.5058 - 800.786.9649

4 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

TeddyBearReview
Editorial
Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joe Jones Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joyce Greenholdt
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . editor@teddybearreview.com

Editors Den
heres so much in this issue, its hard to know where to begin. On the happy side of things, were celebrating 25 years of Teddy Bear Review and recognizing the winners of the 25th Annual Golden Teddy Awards. On a sadder note, this issue includes the final Tracking the Market column by longtime contributor Dee Hockenberry. After more than two decades of writing for TBR, Dee has decided to hang up her columnists hat. We wish her all the best and hope she enjoys her continuing travels in the future. Also, if you missed the premiere webcast of the Golden Teddy Award presentation, you also missed out on some nifty video footage taken with Ken Yenke at the Chelsea Teddy Bear Co. Toy Museum in Chelsea, Mich. Dont despair, though the awards presentation is still available online at www.teddybearreview.com, and well have additional video extras available in days to come. The best part about working on our 25th anniversary feature was getting the chance to spend time digging through our archives and seeing how the hobby developed and changed between the time TBR began in 1986 and the present day. There are more memories tied up in those 25 years worth of magazines than we could possibly fit into just one feature, but weve tried to hit some of the high points, and we hope youll e-mail or write us with some of your favorite teddy bear memories in days to come!

Milestones

Graphic Designer . . . . . Bill Kuffel Senior Contributor . . . Stephanie Finnegan Contributing Writers . Dee Hockenberry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sharon Verbeten . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Janice Woodard Staff Photographer . . . Mark Hurt

Advertising
Advertising Sales. . . . . . Lynn Pockat, ext. 114 Representative . . . . . . . lynnp@jonespublishing.com Advertising Assistant Barb Borski
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . barbb@jonespublishing.com

Joyce Greenholdt, Editor

Corporate
Marketing Manager. . . . . Bill Bright, ext. 130
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . billb@jonespublishing.com

Specialty Shop Sales . . . Virginia Adams, ext. 128

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . virginiaa@jonespublishing.com

Circulation & . . . . . . . . . . . Goldie Mortenson, ext. 1 Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . goldiem@jonespublishing.com Accounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Maggie Jones, ext. 120
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . maggiej@jonespublishing.com

Jones Publishing, Inc. P.O. Box 5000 Iola, WI 54945-5000 Phone: (715) 445-5000 Fax: (715) 445-4053 Toll Free: (800) 331-0038 Visit us online at:

www.teddybearreview.com www.facebook.com/teddy bearreview

www.teddybearreview.com

Crafting
Wisconsin artist Pat Berkowitch brings feeling to every bear
By Sharon Verbeten

ver the past several years, life has thrown many challenges at Pat Berkowitch. She survived a heart attack. She helped her daughter-in-law survive breast cancer. And shes nursed her husband through more than a dozen surgeries. But chatting with the 58-year-old from Babcock, Wis., you realize that compassion is just part of her DNA and thats likely what makes her teddy bears so full of joy and personality. Id like to believe that when people adopt one of my bears, it fills a void in their life, said Berkowitch, owner of Babcock Bears. Theres still a need out there for a hug and friendship.

The Crafty Touch

Berkowitch grew up just outside Chicago with three sisters in an Italian/Scotch-Irish family with many homespun talents. In a way, Im following in my moms footsteps, she said. Berkowitchs grandmother passed down her crocheting and tatting skills. I guess Im the artsy-craftsy one of my sisters, she admitted. If I wanted to do something, I just read the directions and did my own thing. I had to work really hard. Making forts on the front porch and cutting out paper dolls soon led Berkowitch to hang out at a local craft store. I could always find a new craft project to bring home to work on, she said. When I wasnt at the craft store, I shopped at the textile stores and continued making my own clothes. I always had a variety of projects going on embroidery, needlepoint, cross-stitch, soft-sculptured dolls, shadow boxes, or any other project I could get my hands on. My love for crafts has taken me full circle from the very first teddy bear I received in 1972 as a gift to now. 6 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

Compassion
Previous Page: Americana is a special edition made from German Schulte mohair. The 8-inch bear has German glass eyes and ultrasuede paw pads, and her handmade patriotic outfit is made of cotton blends. This Page:These 6-inch bears are made from German Schulte mohair. They are, from left to right, Krissa, Corby and Smores. They have German glass eyes and needle-sculpted ultrasuede pads. Krissa is a OOAK; Corby and Smores are open editions. Each comes with its own necklace and matching ribbon.

www.teddybearreview.com

As she and her husband attended crafts shows, at one fateful show in the mid-1990s, Berkowitch happened upon a teddy bear that would focus her artistry even more. At a bear show in Algoma, Wis., she saw her first handmade teddy bear. It was so beautiful, she recalled. Talk about being inspired at the same show, she purchased bear-making supplies, a kit, a teddybear magazine, and two pieces of mohair. I had never spent so much on a piece of textile in my life, she said. I always shopped for bargains, and this was definitely no bargain nervously, I paid the dealer and went home. Scared to cut into the mohair, I experimented on fake fur, trying to create a bear of my own. Being a perfectionist, I made quite a few bears that didnt measure up to my expectations some arms were too short, some legs were too long they were placed in my ugly bear box.

It took Berkowitch more than a year of experimentation before she finally cut into that precious mohair. She continued to practice and read books to learn about jointing and creating realistic noses and eyes. My bear making eventually started to improve, and fewer were placed into that box, she said. Later, Berkowitch recalled, she remade the bears in the box, adorned them with ribbons, and sent them to St. Judes Childrens Hospital to give to children who needed a hug. As Berkowitch dipped her toes into the world of bear-making, she continued with her full-time job in office administration. But on the weekends, I attended any teddy-bear shows I could find. I fell in love with the furry creations and was overwhelmed by the artistry at the shows. To this day, I still find bears I cant live without!
Above: Francis is a 15-inch OOAK made of Japanese silk mohair with five joints, German glass eyes, and ultrasuede paw pads. Above: 8-inch bears are a favorite size for Berkowitch. This grouping, made from German Schulte kid mohair, was a special order for a collector who named them after family members. Berkowitch hand-dyed the blue and pink mohair, along with wool felt pads to match. The noses were embroidered in cotton floss to match their mohair.

8 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

You could win our cover bear!

One lucky Teddy Bear Review reader will win the 10-inch bear Tori, #1 in a limited edition of 3 made by Pat Berkowitch of Babcock Bears. For your chance to win Tori, simply fill out the entry form below and mail it to: Babcock Bear Giveaway, Jones Publishing, P.O. Box 5000, Iola, WI 54945-5000. Only one entry per person. Photocopied entries will be accepted. All entries must be postmarked by Dec. 30, 2011. The entry form must be completely filled out to be included in the random drawing. No relatives or associates of Jones Publishing or Babcock Bears are allowed to enter.

Teddy Bear Review/Babcock Bears Giveaway

Name: Age: Address:

Enter by

City/State: Zip Code: Phone Number: E-mail:

Dec. 30, 2011,

for your chance to win!

www.teddybearreview.com

When a corporate takeover left her without a job, her family persuaded her to make bear making her career. Bears eventually started to take over the house, so my husband persuaded me to sell some. I told him theyre not good enough. Hed say, If you keep that attitude, youll never get started. Berkowitch added jokingly, If it wasnt for the support of my family, I would probably be on the TV show Hoarders, buried alive in teddy bears!

A Dream Realized
Today, Berkowitch crafts bears, bunnies, cats, and other critters out of mohair, alpaca, and other fine fabrics, in one-of-a-kind (OOAK), limited, and open editions. But it was with trepidation that she battled snow drifts and subzero temperatures to haul her bears to her first official show. I still remember my first bear that sold, she said. I fought the tears, handing it to the lady. She told me she would take good care of the little bear. When she gave the bear a big hug, I knew it was going to be OK. It was hard to part with them at first. Her favorite part of shows, however, is spending time with collectors, both veteran and new. I still get giddy at the start of the shows, which Ive been doing for more than 14 years now. I have always been a people person, she said.

As much as she enjoys the shows, however, a health scare a few years ago prompted her to rethink her priorities. After surviving a heart attack, Berkowitch scaled back on shows to spend more time with her family, especially her husband, who was seriously injured while working as an independent contractor in Iraq. Im still creating bears, but not as many as I used to. Im experimenting more on new designs and different techniques, she said. She also donates bears to Good Bears of the World, an organization which provides teddy bears to children in need of comfort. Last year, the organization gave away more than 20,000 bears to children affected by natural disasters, domestic violence, and illnesses. That involvement is just part of Berkowitchs compassion, which spills out not just to her own family and other people, but to her bears as well. I couldnt see my life without my bears. They still bring me joy and, God willing, Ill be making them for a long time to come. Visit Babcock Bears online at www.babcockbears.com. You can also contact Pat Berkowitch by e-mail at babcockbears@tds.net, by mail at Babcock Bears, P.O. Box 6, Babcock, WI 54413-0006, or by phone at (715) 884-3142. For more information on Good Bears of the World, visit ww.goodbearsoftheworld.org.

Above: Berkowitch loves doing two-tone bears, such as 9-inch Carly, one of her personal favorites. This OOAK is crafted in curly German Schulte kid mohair. Below: 16-inch Sahara is the biggest of three bears made from the same alpaca. Sahara and his siblings (12-inch Sesame and 9-inch Shasta) are all five-jointed with lock nuts and bolts.

Left: Angeline is an 8-inch confection crafted in variegated pink faux fur. Her necklace has an angel pendant with crystal glass beads, and she wears matching ribbons around her neck.

10 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

Paw-terns Plus

by Janice Woodard

Joyau
to the World

Make this festive 8-inch bear for the holidays

Materials

yard mohair fabric 6 inches matching wool felt for paw pads Eight inch x 1/16 inch with 1/16-inch diameter center hole joint discs for limbs Four 1 inch long, 1/16 inch diameter cotter pins Two 1 inch x 1/8 inch with 1/8 inch diameter center hole joint discs for neck 10 washers 1 inch long, 1/8 inch diameter cotter pin for neck One pair 9 mm eyes All-purpose thread #5 black perle cotton thread for nose and mouth Heavy-duty nylon thread Polyfill stuffing BBs for weight 1 yard length of 1-inch wide velvet ribbon for ruff (optional) 8-inch length of 1/3 inch silk ribbon for necklace (optional) -inch jingle bell for necklace (optional)

Tools

Awl Cotter-pin turner Doll needle Permanent marker Small, sharp scissors

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11

Paw-terns Plus
Marking and cutting
Trace the pattern onto a template of cardstock or Mylar so you have a sturdy pattern to work from. Accurately cut out the pattern pieces. Check the nap of the fabric and make sure that its running downward. Trace all the pattern pieces onto the back of the fabric with a permanent marker pen, marking joint holes and openings as indicated. Be sure to lay the pattern pieces with the arrow of the nap running downward (the head gusset may be placed up or down). Also, remember to reverse the pattern pieces that are marked when you are tracing the additional pieces. Cut the fabric with small, sharp scissors, taking small snips and making sure to cut only the fabric backing while leaving the mohair pile intact.

Sewing
A seam allowance of inch has been included in the pattern, but around the nose gusset it seems to center better if you take a 1/8-inch seam allowance. I prefer to snip all mohair inch away from all seam edges prior to sewing. Another method is to sew the seams and, when you are finished, use a needle to groom the seams, pulling all the trapped fur out from the seams. There is no right or wrong way to do this whichever works best for you! I hand sew paw pads and the head gusset using a small running backstitch. For machine stitching, I also keep the stitches tight and small. Its advisable to sew each seam twice. I like to hand baste every piece prior to sewing using a blanket stitch.

Many artists like to pin the pieces whichever works best for you is what you should do. Sewing the head: You should have two side pieces (one cut in reverse) and one gusset. Place the side pieces together with right sides facing and sew from the nose to the neck. Next, place the gusset centered at the nose (right side facing) and stitch around from the center of the nose on one side to the neck and then the other side the same way. Ears: Place matching ear pieces with right sides facing and stitch around the round part of the ears, leaving the bottoms open for turning. Body: Position the two body pieces with right sides facing and stitch all the way around, leaving an opening for the back where marked and an opening for the neck joint.

12 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

Legs: There are four leg pieces. Match up left and right legs (right sides facing) and sew all the way around, leaving them open at the top where marked for stuffing and at the bottom to sew the foot pads. Sew foot pads prior to turning. Arms: There are four arm pieces. First sew the hand pads to each inner arm piece, then match them to the outer arms, right sides together, and sew each arm all the way around, leaving an opening at the top where marked for turning and stuffing.

Assembling the head

Stuff the head very firmly (especially the nose) with polyfill stuffing, molding the head into shape as you stuff make sure its even on both sides. After stuffing the head, run a gathering stitch

around the neck, leaving it loose enough to insert the joint disc, washer, and cotter pin. After inserting the joint in the neck opening, pull the gathering stitch tight until it closes around the cotter pin, so that only the open end of the cotter pin is poking out of the head at the neck. Tie the gathering threads off with a surgeons knot and hide the tails of the thread in the head. Attaching the ears: First, cut a long piece of thread (approximately 30 inches), fold the thread in half and use it to sew a ladder stitch across the opening of the ear, pulling tight at the top to form a nice, cupped ear. Do not cut the remaining thread, as this will be used to attach the ear to the head. Use three straight pins on each ear to secure them in place, making sure they

are even one at the top, one in the center and one at the bottom. Arrange them so your remaining thread is at the top corner of each ear, which will be your first needle entrance from the ear into the head. You can attach each ear with only three stitches: Starting at the top, place your needle as close to the first straight pin marker as possible, pushing the needle into the head and bringing it out as close to the center straight pin as possible. Take a single stitch right through the center of the ear and push your needle back into the head on the opposite side of the center marking pin. Bring the needle back up through the head as close to the third (bottom) straight pin as possible, taking a single stitch right through the bottom of the ear.

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13

Paw-terns Plus
Push your needle back into the head on the other side of the bottom stitch and run it through the head, bringing it back up as close to the top straight pin as possible. You now have three anchor stitches; youll need to pull very tight to sink the ear into the head. Knot off using a surgeons knot and hide the remaining thread inside the head. Attaching the eyes: Before attaching the eyes, sculpt the eye area a bit by taking a long piece of heavy-duty nylon thread and running it back and forth through the head four or five times under the bridge of the nose, from right eye socket to left eye socket, pulling gently each time. I use practice eyes to choose which size eye works best for a particular bear. Cut a long piece of nylon thread (about 20 inches long) and thread this through the wire loop on the glass eye (keeping the glass eye centered on the thread). Using an awl, make a hole in the eye socket where the eye will go. Thread a long doll needle with the eye thread, put the needle in the hole made by the awl, and bring the needle out under the bears chin, as close to the neck joint as possible. Do the same thing for the other eye, aiming to have the thread come out about inch from the first eye thread. Tie both eye threads together using a surgeons knot (pull the threads tight so the eyes are set nice and deep) and hide the thread ends in the head. Embroidering nose and mouth: I like to trim the fur pile right down to the backing where I plan to embroider the nose. Using black perle cotton, make close, even satin stitches. If I dont use a template for the nose (a small piece of wool felt cut in the shape of the nose), then I embroider two layers for the nose. After the nose is all stitched, embroider the mouth with the remaining thread. I like to run the embroidery thread up through the top of the head, back down in the same hole and out the back of the head before cutting off. and in the body where marked. Place one disc joint, washer, and cotter pin inside each limb and push the cotter pin through the body. Place the second disc joint for each limb inside the body, place the washer on top of that, and roll or turn the cotter pin down with the cotter-pin turner so the limb rests snugly against the body. Do this for all four limbs. Then finish stuffing each limb and close them off using a ladder stitch. After all the limbs are attached and closed off, attach the head by running the cotter pin at the neck of the bear though the opening left in the body for the head. Place the other disc inside the body and over the cotter pin, then use your cotter-pin turner and turn it tightly so the head rests snugly against the body. Finish the bear by stuffing the tummy with some BBs in the front and polyfill stuffing throughout. Close off the back opening with a ladder stitch. I finish my bears with airbrushed accents and some crafters chalk for shading around the eyes. I also like to trim a bit up the muzzle and a bit of fur away from under the chin.

Assembling the bear

First, stuff the arms and legs halfway up and then attach them to the empty body. Each limb will need two disc joints, two washers, and a cotter pin. Use an awl to make a hole in each limb

Janice Woodards love of artist bears began in 1998 as a collector. In January 1999, her husband enrolled her in a bear-making class at a local shop. She began creating and selling her one-of-a-kind bears later that same year under the name Booh Bears. For the last five years, she has also sold her patterns as well as her bears at www.BoohBears.com. Woodards patterns have appeared in magazines in both Germany and the U.S. In addition to her own website, Woodards bears are sold on Bear Pile, Etsy, and eBay (all under the name of BoohBears). To contact Woodard or to request to be added to her e-mail notice list, send a message to Janice@BoohBears.com.

About the Artist

14 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

Adornments
To make Joyaus ruff, cut a 1yard length of 1-inch wide velvet ribbon. Using a running (gathering) stitch along the top of the ribbon with sturdy nylon thread, gather the entire yard. Leave 8 inches of thread on each end and pull tight to gather the ribbon and tie it around her neck. Place a -inch jingle bell on an 8-inch long and 1/3-inch wide piece of silk ribbon and tie around Joyaus neck. Your new little bear should now be ready for lots and lots of hugs!
Changing the trimmings can make a big change in the bear. Heres Joyau in a dress instead of her neck ruff and jingle-bell necklace.

This pattern is meant for entertainment and instructional purposes only. Due to the glass eyes and pellet weights, this is not intended to be a childs toy.

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15

And the WinnerIs...

The votes for the 25th annual Golden Teddy Awards are in, and after tallying them all up, we have our winners. Our thanks go out to everyone who entered and everyone who took the time to cast their votes. Congratulations to all our winners!

Participate in the 2012 Golden Teddy Awards Competition!

Artists and manufacturers wishing to enter the 2012 competition: Turn to page 34 for information on entering. Entries will only be accepted online through www.teddybearreview.com. The nominees will be notified in early 2012. Dont miss this great opportunity to showcase your newest creations!

Individual ArtistSmall Undressed Bears Dusky by Michelle Lamb, One & Only Bears

16 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

Individual ArtistSmal l Dressed Bea rs Mr. Bean by Yeun Hee Park, Hee Bear

Size Categories
Small Bears: 5 inches & under Standard Bears: Over 5 inches & under 14 inches Large Bears: 14 inches & over

Individual ArtistStandard s Undressed Bear zelda Griz by Kelly Dean, Kelly Dean and Company

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17

Individual ArtistStandard Dressed Bears Agnes by Lena Volkova, Teddy Kingdom

l Individua rge ArtistLa ears dB Undresse o Mom , awamoto by Aiko K ear Aico B

Golden Teddy Awards continue on page 20

18 December 2010 Teddy Bear Review

The Sparkle Bear

2011 Steiff North American Limited Edition - 10

Candy

EW! Back for an encore, it`s another in our ever-popular series of Teddy bears with Swarovski element accessories. Perfect for decorating during the holiday season, we think this is our most attractive Teddy yet.

Steiff Trunk Show October 22, 2011

ears N Friends in La Conner, WA will be hosting a Fall Steiff Event Saturday, October 22 from 11:00 to 4:00. Presentations will will be at 12:00 and 2:30. Susanna Steiff Pinyuh and Claire Steiff Meisel, granddaughters to Richard Steiff, the creator of the Teddy bear will be signing pieces and visiting with customers. Rick Emerson from Steiff will also be doing a presentation. We will have goodie bags for first 100 people, door prizes, and tasty desserts.
nd

We ship anywhere, layaways, and special orders are welcome.

Open 10-6 Daily

509 S. First Street, La Conner, WA 98257 (888) 709-5399 hugabear@earthlink.net

Visit Bears 'N Friends on Facebook. Mention this www.BearsNFriends.com discount. Limit 3ad to receive 10% pieces per customer.
www.teddybearreview.com

Bears N Friends

19

Golden Teddy Awards continued from page 18

al Individu ge Lar Artist ears B Dressed o Boler b, elle Lam by Mich Only One & Bears

Individual Artist Needle-Felted Sculpted Ani / mals Leonardo by Kelly Gra ham Ted E. Graha , m Originals

20 December 2010 Teddy Bear Review

l Individua ar e tNon-B Artis -Sculpture ft Plush/So als Anim t r Though Poise fo Allison, by Shelly bit The Rab Maker

Manufac ture Small Be r ars Pretzel Ba Ornamen ker t b Hermann y Spielware n

rer factu Manu rd Bears a Stand unzel Rap nrman by He waren Spiel

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turer Manufac ars Large Be go Bon Betsy & gton by Bearin n Collectio

Manuf Non-B acturer ear Soft- S culptu Plush/ White re Animals R by Her abbit mannSpielw aren

x Tableau rsh Ma leeping h Dog S w wit & Mallo y MaSal low b Pil saru and Ma (Kumiko ), MaSal Nakano ons Creati

22 December 2010 Teddy Bear Review

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23

Mr. Tubbs
5 - Workshop Bear for
Quinlan Philadelphia Convention

Higgins
Artist: LuLu Tatum LuLus Bears lulusbears@gmail.com www.lulutatum.etsy.com

Zoe
Artist: Michele Seraphim Seraphim Bears m.seraphim@cogeco.ca www.micheleseraphim.com

Thursday Morning, May 3, 2012

Portraits

Ginger
Artist: Jane Woodard Heir Bears- heirbears@aol.com www.heirbears.com (561) 626-1031

Arne
Artist: Vicki Stephan Raspbearies www.raspbearies.net (508) 393-7864

King Ludwig
Best of America Steiff Dealer Tonis Collectibles www.toniscollectibles.com Toll Free (877) 879-6220

Russell
Artist: Chantal Welter Teddy Pineapple
http://teddypineapple.bearpile.com

Fairy Doogles
Artist: Tami Lahey Dolls N Dreams dollsndreams@comcast.net www.dollsndreams.com

Xiao-Ping
Artist: Tyler Crain-Davis Teds n Such tedsnsuch.blogspot.com www.tedsnsuch.com

teddy.pineapple@gmail.com

PB 50th
Paddington, Muffy Vdbr, Steiff, Corduroy Bear The Velveteen Rabbit www.bearseverywhere.com

Clementine
Artist: Lena Volkova Teddy Kingdom www.teddykingdom.com

The Carolers
The Gentry of Cobblestone Court Artist: Laura Majusiak www.cobblestonecreations.net

Portraits

Ruby
Artist: Pam Pontious Pamda Bears pamdabears@yahoo.com

Adriana
Annalisa Taddei The Tuscany Bear Maker
thetuscanybearmaker@gmail.com

Little Bonzo
by Steiff The Toy Shoppe www.TheToyShoppe.com toll free (800) 447-7995

www.thetuscanybearmaker.eu

Cruickshank...
...the Treasure Hunter Happy Tymes Collectibles www.happytymes.net (610) 873-0407

Buster
Artist: Michelle Nunnery Little Bittie Bears littlebittiebear@yahoo.com www.littlebittiebears.com

Heidi
By Charlie Bears Beacons Glow Collectibles www.beaconsglow.com (512) 990-9881

Tis the Season

By Stephanie Finnegan

Bear artists share their holiday creations

any years ago, a popular song advised people to follow the paths of faith, hope, and charity, reminding them that was the way that led to prosperity. Now, in a year that has been challenging and confusing (to put it mildly), folks around the world are taking that lyrical adage to heart. During the holiday season, thoughts traditionally turn to those virtues, and for 2011 the beacons of faith, hope, and charity are burning especially bright. A bevy of talented international artists have written to Teddy Bear Review with their musings of what these principles have meant to them, and what they will continue to mean as we forge ahead into 2012. As teddy bear creators, their heartfelt wishes were also conveyed via some exceptionally merry and moving designs.

Amber Rose Lawrence fashioned this charming re-creation of the Nativity scene.

I feel as though these three virtues have so much more meaning these days. I have definitely been impacted by all three, and I know they have touched others as well, Amber Rose Lawrence told Teddy Bear Review. Ive had to hold tight to faith this year as it tried to slip away on one occasion or another. I was so hopeful that we as a country would dig ourselves out of this recession and the economy would be on the mend in 2011. I still hold on to that hope. And on a more personal note, I hit a few road bumps in my wish to start a family in 2011. Its been a challenge for us, but I have to be hopeful that not only will the economy begin its long recovery in 2012, but that our wishes of starting a family will come true, too.

040

26 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

Regarding charity, its needed more than ever. My family and I dont have a lot of money, but every little bit helps when it comes to giving. I make sure that with every sale of mine, a small portion goes to one of many local and national charities. I let my buyers decide which charity theyd like the contribution to go to. I personally donate and contribute to rescues and organizations that help the animals of the United States, for they have been hit so hard during this recession and are often forgotten about.

Ive found that prayer can be so comforting. It doesnt matter if one prays to their God, or gods, or Mother Nature. It doesnt matter your faith its the desire to put it out there in the universe. Now I know that a prayer wont put food on the table or keep the bill collector at bay, but the simple act of sitting down, clearing ones mind, and saying a simple prayer can give one a sense of peace, comfort, faith, and hopefulness, Richard Fitzwater said. I see and experience these feelings whenever I see a person or even a figurine praying. Thats what inspired me to make my little praying bunny. I truly felt a sense of peace coming over me, and I hope that this simple little bunny

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Bil n Bo are a bright Christmas creation by Amber Rose Lawrence. (www.amber-rose-creations.com, amber@amber-rose-creations.com)

can and will give peace, comfort, faith, and hopefulness to everyone who needs it.

Above: Sue Pendleton has the spirit of sharing and caring year-round, but realizes it rises to the foreground during this time of year: I believe that now, more than ever, its important to share what I have with those who are less fortunate, beginning first and foremost with family members who have lost jobs or otherwise have encountered some misfortune. The Christmas season always inspires special feelings of hope and ever-increasing faith. I hope and pray that the coming year will bring prosperity, goodwill, and peace to a world desperately in need. Her 5-inch fully jointed bear is named Hope and Hopes dress was crocheted from mohair yarn. (www.etsy.com/shop/BluebearyTreasures) Right: Kathy Myers has been busy breeding hope with her Hope Bunnies. The artist said, I was raised in the 1950s, when the bad cowboys wore black hats and the good cowboys wore white hats. So the larger rabbit represents all of the good and bad things that happened in the past. The baby bunny is pure white mink and represents the possibilities of the future. The larger bunny is trying to make the little bunny laugh, because laughter, as the Hope pedestal says, is a way of wishing you new hope, new joy, and new beginnings. (http://minkbears.blogspot.com, designedbykm@ca.rr.com)

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Below: Christy: Has Santa come yet? is a tribute to the faith and hope of millions of children worldwide on Christmas Eve. Created by Nancy Dontigney, the bear reflects the artists nostalgia for past Christmases and more innocent, simple times: I am trying to find faith in the U.S. government that they will guide us through these difficult times. My hope is for our children and our childrens children. I hope that despite these hard times, they can enjoy the kind of Christmas we had as children. Family gatherings, wonderful smells, and gifts from the heart made Christmas very special to me. We didnt receive expensive clothes or electronic toys. We made gifts for each other. Maybe one nice thing that can come from hard economic times is a return to the true meaning of Christmas. (www.dogpatchcritters.com, nancy@dogpatchcritters.com)

Above: Standing 3 inches tall, Edgar the Elf Bear is a merry delight from artist Sarah Medina. Fully cotter-pin jointed, hes made of sassy plush with glass eyes and jingle bells. (www.jellybellybears.com, jbbears@ozemail.com.au)

28 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

Australian artist Sarah Medina dug deep into her belief system this year to maintain her positive outlook and optimism for the future. Ive relied on hope so much this past year, not only in relation to world events, but very personally, too. I lost my granddad this year. He was on life support for a month, and I was thankfully able to communicate with him before he passed. I have such strong faith that I will see him again. It wasnt so much a good-bye as Ill see you again. My sister, after suffering a horrific medical emergency in late 2010, has kept our family faith intact as she made her way through a long recovery and shes still with us, enjoying life again. This year has been a time to constantly draw on faith and hope to see us through. Blessed with a sunny disposition, Medina shared how this Christmas season will have a special significance to her. The holiday will certainly mean a lot to me in many different ways, and Im sure it will pull on my emotions. It will be nice to take time out and forget about the sorrows and focus on the spirit of joy in the season. Its a great way to reset the clock. I wont forget what has been, but I will be able to look more optimistically toward the future. And when I do look back, I will honor and remember the good things.

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Mr. Tibbles and Charlie share quality family time in the old rocking chair. Artist Wanda Carson imagined that they were either reciting a Christmas story together or planning their Christmas wish list. The dad is 30 inches and wears an antique collar and vintage monogram on a red ascot; the son is 18 inches and is clad in a vintage baby romper. Both father and child are mohair. (www.carsoncreations.net)

Timothy by Aerianna Mendoza is about 13 inches, sitting, and made from alpaca. His Christmas spirit shows through his red-and-gold bow and jingle bell. His eyes are hand-painted blue, and he has a multicolored stitched nose. He reminds me of my son, Mendoza wrote. He looks sweet, but at any minute he could decide to pull an ornament off the tree and just as quickly crawl up on my lap to snuggle and read a book. (www.aerbears.com, aerianna@aerBears.com)

MOMO

GTA Winner!

http://www2.odn.ne.jp/aicobear
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This year, Barbara K. Burke celebrated her fifth year of surviving stagethree breast cancer. Even though it can be tough at times, I really feel blessed. Whenever I feel a little down, I only have to think of all the children who are ill and what they have to go through. This makes me really count my blessings and, as they say, deal with it. So always have faith and hope, and always, always have a smile and be able to laugh at yourself. It does work. The topic of hope has often been found in my work, said Kathy Myers. My newest creations are my Hope Bunnies. In the past Ive been inspired by Greek mythology the story of Pandoras box comes to mind. This year, I was moved by a quote from comedian Bill Cosby: Through humor, you can soften some of the worst blows that life delivers. And once you find laughter, no matter how painful your situation might be, you can survive it. That is a powerful sentiment, and it influenced my work, and it is influencing my life.
Continued on page 35

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Above: Sue Van Nattans Denali is made of alpaca, stands 15 inches and wears an artistmade winter hat of satin-lined wool with recycled fur trim. (bearlooms@frontiernet.net, (217) 854-9439) Right: Australias Karen Salton reflected on the past year in a way that was universal: 2011 has been a year of challenges for me, as far as family and friends with their ill health. Hope and faith have pulled us through. Thankfully, these special people have had the strength and willingness within to fight through these challenges with our continued support. This year has seen many natural disasters, such as floods, earthquakes, and tsunamis. Its in our nature to give and donate to charity in these times of need, to give to those affected the support they truly deserve whether it be monetary, caring words, or time to heal. My Christmas creation, AJ and Kris, showcases these two critters as they enjoy a sleigh ride together filled with joy, health, and safety. Heres hoping that 2012 is a much better year. (www.rufnutteddys.com, rufnutteddys@hotmail.com)

30 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

The Tail End

Show promoter Alex Wilson died July 11 while working in his garden. He was 63. Wilson and his wife, bear artist Janet Wilson of Handmade Treasures, worked with Mark and Susan McKay of Bears of the Abbey to produce the annual Chantilly Fall Frolic show in Virginia and the Hunt Valley Teddy Bear Show in Maryland. Alex will be missed by many friends. We will have lifelong, treasured memories of this special person, Mark McKay said. His passing is also a major loss to the teddy bear collectible industry. The Wilson family have expressed their desire to see that the Chantilly, Va., and the Hunt Valley, Md., Teddy Bear Collectible Events continue as scheduled this year.

Alex Wilson dies at 63

Dannie and Barrie Shapiro opened The Toy Shoppe out of their love and fascination for fine dolls and teddy bears, seeking out quality work by the best artists, including Little Brown Bear by R. John Wright.

A Trip to The Toy Shoppe

Reflections on 35 years of collecting trends
By Sharon Verbeten
As owners of The Toy Shoppe in Richmond, Va., Danny and Barrie Shapiro seek out quality collectibles based on three basic criteria: original designs, high-quality craftsmanship, and high-quality materials. That was kind of our thematic principle, said Danny Shapiro, 62. He said their approach was always aimed against a mass-market corporate mentality and the quick-buck artists. We opened The Toy Shoppe in 1975 in a quaint little store on the outskirts of Richmond, Barrie Shapiro, 63, recalled. In the mid-70s, she said, There were no magazines on fine dolls and teddy bears, no events or trade shows. But we built a network of collectors who delighted in fine, well-made toys. We made a lot of friends along the way and still keep in touch with the third generation of collectors in many cases. By the 1990s, The Toy Shoppe focused exclusively on dolls and bears. Danny Shapiro called the past 20 years a renaissance in fine dollmaking and bear making. The only era I could compare it to is the 1880s to 1910 in Europe, the Golden Age of toys the birth of Steiff, Mrklin, Jumeau, etc. We have avoided trends and fads as they came along and over three decades weve seen a lot of them! Barrie Shapiro said. We focus our efforts on what we enjoy. Our collectors still talk about the Steiff Maximillian teddy bear you dont see that kind of enthusiasm and emotional involvement from a fad. During the economic crash of the 2000s, many doll shops and manufacturers disappeared. What the Shapiros learned was that even in a time of recession, quality endures. A properly made teddy bear will provide warmth and love for many years, Barrie Shapiro said. Weve found that collectors are turning towards their collections even more to brighten their day. Danny Shapiro added that while sales have been down over the last three years, The Toy Shoppe remains a destination spot for travelers and locals alike. Online sales at www.thetoyshoppe.com also aid the business, which now has 15 employees. As the Internet brings our world closer together, we are sure to see more artists of diverse backgrounds inspired to turn their talents to creating these beloved toys, Barrie Shapiro said.
www.teddybearreview.com

Build-A-Bear Workshop is voluntarily recalling its 1.5-inch Love Hugs Peace lapel pins. The pins were sold from July 2009 to October 2010 for $3.50 ($4 Canadian). Surface paints on the pin have been found to contain excessive levels of lead. Consumers should stop using the pins immediately and return them to any Build-A-Bear Workshop for a $5 store coupon; or call Build-A-Bear Workshop toll-free at (866) 236-5683 for alternate instructions on returning the pins and receiving a refund. (www.buildabear.com)

Build-A-Bear Workshop recalls pins

Sunny Bears, a teddy bear boutique in Pompano Beach, Fla., celebrated its 5th year of business in July. The store and online retailer is a family business owned and operated by Chrissie and Scott Baust, their sons, ages 3 and 1, and their fearless mascot, Charlie the dog. Chrissie Baust is a long time teddy bear collector, while Scott Baust owns a computer business. In 2006, Sunny Bears began selling high-quality stuffed animals and collectibles in Pompano Beach, and later expanded to selling online all over the world. Sunny Bears is an authorized retailer for Steiff, Hermann-Spielwaren, Hansa, North American Bear Co., and Maple Landmark, as well as offering artist bears. We like to say, From baby to collector, only the best, said Chrissie Baust. Aside from the downturn in the economy, the biggest challenge has been taking care of our boys while running the store. Customers often hear them in the background when they call. This often makes conversations on the phone just a little more lively! In addition to Sunny Bears, we also run I Love Teddies, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. I Love Teddies is one of the largest resource websites for teddy bears and real bears. (www.sunny-bears.com or toll-free (866) 698BEAR; www.iloveteddies.com).

Sunny Bears celebrates 5 years

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Letters
Patricia Green via e-mail I just wanted to write and let you know how much I enjoyed the article Teddy Bear Town Residents Outnumber Citizens in South Dakotas Black Hills in the October 2011 issue of Teddy Bear Review. As a collector for over 30 years and a subscriber since the 1980s, I get tired of seeing the same old articles repeat themselves in the bear magazines. The article about Teddy Bear Town was fresh, interesting, visually attractive, and well-written. It had a level of depth that made it stand out among other feature articles. I found it to be very well-researched and the kind of thing that I love to read. Please pass my compliments to the author, Bev Pechan. I would love to see more articles like this that deal with common bears (not just artist bears) and that have lots of photos and detailed reporting. I didnt think there was much in the teddy-bear world I wasnt aware of. This was a nice surprise. Thanks for discovering Teddy Bear Town and sharing it with your readers.

Ursine Occasions
Teddies Worldwide puts Bears on Parade
More than 6,000 collectors visited the Teddies Worldwide Bears on Parade Online Show July 15-17. 75 artists from 13 countries created a display of parade-themed bears for the occasion, and visitors arrived at all hours of the day and night, without leaving the comfort of their own homes, to admire and adopt the bears and critters available for purchase. Before the show, collectors could visit the website to see and vote on a preview of show entries one themed bear by each artist which gave folks a taste of what was to come. More than 4,000 votes were tallied and the winners of the Collectors Choice Awards were:

Under 5 inches: Charlie Chuckles by Jane Mogford, Pipkin Bears (shown at left) 5 inches and over: Zanni le Pierrot by Brenda PollockSmith, La De Da Bears (right) The show offered bears in all styles, colors, and sizes to fit all budgets. One feature of the show was the Bears Under $100 category. Most artists made something for this category, to cater to those experiencing difficulty in todays economy and to give people new to artist-bear collecting the opportunity to dive in and start building their collection. The show also featured a chat room where collectors and artists could get to know each other throughout the show and chat about themselves and their collections. The excitement that once existed at in person shows was back again at this online show! It was wonderful to hear collectors so excited and to be a part of the new era in bear shows! said one participating artist. I loved the Bears Under $100 and ended up spending more than I planned because I was so excited to be able to buy bears from many artists new to me, rather than affording only one higher-priced bear. My collection grew a lot at this show and Im tickled! an attendee commented. This was the third Teddies Worldwide online show, organized by Daphne Blau of Back Road Bears, with technical help from web designer Frank Towle (Blaus father). The next Teddies Worldwide online show, Christmas Treasures, will be held Nov. 18-20 at www.TeddiesWorldwide.com. Daphne Blau 32 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

Advertising Index
A Aico Bear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 B Back Road Bears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Beacons Glow Collectibles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Bear Attack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Bear Bottom Toys & Dolls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Bearly A Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Bears n Buds by Armella . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Bears N Friends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Bears Everywhere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 C Cobblestone Creations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 CRs Crafts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 D Dolls 4 All . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Dolls N Dreams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Donna and the Bears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 E Edinburgh Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 G Good Bears of the World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 H Handmade Treasures Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Happy Tymes Collectibles/Teddies To Go . . .25 Heir Bears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 K Kozy Clutter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 L Little Bittie Bears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Lovable Fellows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Lulus Bears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 M MaSal Creations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Marthas Bears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Mary George Bears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 My Friends and Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 P Pamda Bears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Puppenhausmuseum Basel . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 R Raspbearies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 S Seraphim Bears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Susan Quinlan Doll & Teddy Bear Museum . . .2 T Teddies of Mt. Holly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Teddy Kingdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Teddy Pineapple . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Tonis Collectibles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19, 24 Toy Shoppe, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9, 25 The Tuscany Bear Maker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

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2012 Golden Teddy Awards

Start thinking about your entries for next years competition
How to Enter
1. On or after Jan. 6, 2012, go to www.teddybearreview.com and click on the GTA 2012 link to enter online. Fill out the online form. Please double check for accuracy; the information given will be used in the magazine and in promotional materials for nominated and winning entries. Any entry form that is not accompanied by an entry fee will be invalid and not viewed by the judges. A separate online form must be filled out for each piece entered. 2. Each bear maker entering the contest must select either the artist or manufacturer category. An artist is defined as someone who makes fewer than 1,000 bears annually. Participants may submit multiple entries in each award category. 3. The entry fee must be included. The first entry is $50. Additional entries are $35 each. Payment must be made by credit card. These fees are nonrefundable. Fees are applied to the contests administrative and publicity costs. Each entry must be accompanied by a paid entry fee or it will be disqualified. 4. Include two photos. See contest rules below. 5. Entries must be received by March 5, 2012. 9. If a submission entered into a category is deemed inappropriate by the staff of Teddy Bear Review, the magazine has the right to disqualify the bear/animal or move it to a different category. 10. Any substantial changes made in costume, materials, or retail price from the original entry are grounds for disqualification of the entry. 11. Judges will rate bears on the following criteria: Overall aesthetic appeal Excellence in concept, design and execution Quality of material and workmanship 12. The above instructions must be followed to be considered for nomination. Entries must be received by March 5, 2012, to be considered.

Bear/Animal Details
When preparing to enter online, have the following information ready: Name of bear/animal Height (in inches) Edition size (if limited) Retail price (in U.S. currency) Body material and color Paw pads material and color Eyes and color Stuffing Special features and/or costume description One full-length and one close-up photo (at least 1,200 by 900 pixels)

Contest Rules
1. Each entry must be accompanied by two clear color photographs (one full body and one close-up of the face), sized at least 1,200 by 900 pixels. No prints, disks, transparencies or slides will be accepted. These photographs become the property of Jones Publishing, Inc., and may be used for promotional purposes or in Teddy Bear Review. If nominated, your photo will be used in Teddy Bear Review. 2. Entries must be photographed against a plain, flat, solid-color background. Each entry must be photographed separately. Only props or accessories sold with the teddy bear/animal are permitted in the photograph. 3. A separate entry form must be filled out for each piece entered. 4. Any bear/animal introduced from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2011, is eligible for the contest. The entry must be a new, original design and not a variation or re-costuming of a previous design. 5. Dressed bears must be costumed by the maker. A bear is considered dressed if it appears to be fully dressed (even if the costume is made as part of the bear) or if the bear is accessorized. Accessories are decorative objects contributing to the costume or character and must be attached to the bear/animal. Props, which are items used to create a scene, may be used only in the Tableaux category. Needlefelted/sculpted animals (one or more than one), with or without props, should be entered in the Needle-Felted/Sculpted Animals category. 6. Undressed bears may be very simply accessorized with one (1) of the following: a bow, tie, hat, collar, etc. Bears wearing wings are considered dressed. 7. Participants may submit multiple entries in each category. Nominees will be notified in late April 2012. 8. Entries should be measured from the top of the head to the bottom of the foot (not including accessories). Bears/animals designed to stand on all fours should be measured from the nose to the tip of the tail.

Categories
Size qualifications: Small bears are defined as 5 inches and under. Standard Size are over 5 inches and under 14 inches. Large bears are 14 inches and over. I. Individual Artist A single bear/animal designed and made primarily by the artist and offered for sale. An artist is defined as someone who makes less than 1,000 bears annually.. Small Undressed Bears Small Dressed Bears Standard Size Undressed Bears Standard Size Dressed Bears Large Undressed Bears Large Dressed Bears Artist Needle-Felted/Sculpted Animals Must be at least 80 percent needle-felted; open to all animals, including bears Artist Non-Bear Plush/Soft-Sculpture Animals II. Manufacturer A single bear created for sale by a manufacturing or importing company. Small Bears Standard Size Bears Large Bears Non-Bear Plush/Soft-Sculpture Animals III. Tableaux A grouping of more than one bear and/or animal, with or without props, or a single bear/animal with props, in any size. This award is open to both manufacturers and artists. One award will be presented..

34 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

Continued from page 30

Artist Wanda Carson was also touched by quotations this season, and used the words of others to help her connect with what she hoped to say. One of the most powerful means of achieving hope for a positive future for our world is to help children develop and improve their education. This can be accomplished by creating a stable family environment of love and a sense of belonging for all children. I hope that will happen for more and more children in our world, and my vignette of Mr. Tibbles and his son, Charlie, captures that needed connection, the artist said. The quotes that influenced me are John F. Kennedys Children are the worlds most valuable resource and its best hope for the future, and Zig Ziglars Our children are our only hope for the future, but we are their only hope for their present and future. I have taken that to heart.

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As a new mom, Aerianna Mendoza has discovered that her days are filled with hope. My little boy, Ethan, is 2 years old, and its amazing to watch him grow. Every day is chock-full of love, fun, a bit of frustration, and lots of hope. I dream about my sons future and I hope he grows up with a charitable and loving heart. I think about our trip to the zoo next weekend and I hope we have an entertaining family trip. I endure an afternoon of tantrums and I hope I am able to simply get through the day! Hope has definitely been a theme for me this year, and I hope others have been able to find comfort and love in their home and with their families, as I have with mine.
Canadian artist Trish Pilon has hopes for a healthier and calmer 2012 for her family. The artist has a deep and abiding faith, and her three angelic bears, Faith, Hope, and Charity mirror her personal connection to the biblical virtues. The artist is looking to launch a charitable fund-raiser in 2012 to aid hospitalized patients like her son. (http://squire.hypermart.net, bearpach@kos.net)

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This little mouse, Hope the Mouseangel embodies my message of hope for 2012. I hope that everyone has peace, love, and forgiveness in their hearts. I believe that whatever dire circumstances are in your life, youll find hope is the most powerful feeling you can have. You should always have hope that things will get better, safer, and happier. Hope and believe in yourself, and have a happy Christmas, Britains Elanor Andrews penned. (www.shantockbears.com, shantockbears@tiscali.co.uk)

Lori Ann Gorton witnessed faith, hope, and charity firsthand this year. Her artwork reflects the lessons she has learned: My Christmas bear is a serious, deep old soul, holding a small yet golden Christmas package in his hands. I added the angel on top of it to key into my reflections for this year. I have discovered you or I may be giving something small, but it could turn out to be golden. (www.blueskybears.com, gorty2@juno.com, 707-447-3024)

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The spirit of giving seems to be most important today when so many people are struggling with finances, Jane Woodard said. There have been so many times this past year when I have seen a random act of kindness brighten someones day. It can be something as simple as letting a driver or a customer get in line ahead of you. It could be leaving your change in a charity box at the checkout register or contributing to a food drive. Perhaps you can take care of a stray cat or watch a neighbor s child. Christmas doesnt have to come just once a year! The spirit of giving should be going on in our lives every single day. Lori Ann Gorton recently encountered a young woman in need, and their interaction moved her and touched her to her core. I am on the weekly mailing list of a local church. It often lists people in need. I happened to notice one regarding a single mom with a little 5-year-old boy who had just moved from another state and had basically nothing. I have been so blessed in my life to have two boys, who are 7 and 9. Almost their entire life I have been given tons of clothes, shoes and everything you can think of. It was all passed on to me by a relative. I have kept all their good clothes, shoes, discarded toys hopefully, to be able to repay the kindness shown to me. After meeting the mother and son, and listening to her very difficult story, Josh, my 9-year-old, looked at me and whispered, Mom, I want to give her my whole allowance savings. He was determined, and I was certainly not

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going to stop the fact that my sons heart was moved to do this. He quickly ran to his room and got the $20 he had been painstakingly saving. He said, Excuse me, but I really want you to have this. Well, that started the tears rolling down from her eyes as she cried out, You have no idea how much this means to me! Gorton was deservedly proud of her sons altruism, and encourages all of us to follow suit. If we could just stop to help one person in need youll never know the impact it will have on them, or the wonderful impact it may have on your own children. So my goal and focus this year is serious soul searching to try to always be aware and grateful. Canadian bear artist Trish Pilon was also influenced by her own son this year inspired to launch a charity on behalf of the patients at the hospital ward where he has spent most of his time in recent months. I watched people at the hospital pace the corridors and the halls. We tried to start games up with other patients who had to walk endlessly because of bowel and digestive problems. Wheres Waldo was one game where we would all pick a person. I would say, if you see that man first while we are all walking, you get a dollar. My son Alex was up to eight dollars the first day! It seemed to give all the patients something to think about other than the relentless task of going around in circles. I thought it would be great to buy some pedometers so they could see how far they walked things that would lift the spirits and help the families see a smile on their loved ones faces again. Always fast to participate in fundraisers for earthquake relief, animal issues, and environmental needs, Pilon prays that she can transform this Christmas dream into a reality. I want to be able to auction off some of my creations and have some of my bear colleagues and peers take part, as well. This is my Christmas desire. I hope to be able to use my talents and theirs to raise money, raise spirits, and to raise awareness of the plights of so many hospital-bound people. Times are hard financially, but I hope there is always a place for charity.

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Above: Serena Van Antwerp relied on her teddy bear talents to make her sons first Christmas a joyful one: I felt an overwhelming feeling of love and wanted to give him something that would not only show how much I loved him, but also be something he could keep for years to come. My hope was that as he grew older, he would cherish the miniature hand-sewn bear and perhaps even think of how special that first Christmas was for us. The years have flown by, and when my son was getting ready for his first day at school, he was nervous. It was midnight, the night before the big day, and I shuffled through his toys to find his Christmas bear. I stayed up late sewing the string tightly around the bears little belly. I took a safety pin and securely attached it to the inside of his pants pocket. Now you can feel it anytime you get scared or miss being home with me, I told him. And somehow that tiny little handmade bear gave us both the faith we needed to wave to one another as the school bus pulled away. (http://VanAntwerpBears.com, serenapaints@gmail.com) Above Right: Life with all its ups and downs can be as simple or as difficult as one makes it. Sometimes its the simplest things that give us the most peace. I hope my Praying Bunny will bring faith and comfort to all who see it and to the home where it will eventually reside, said Richard Fitzwater. (waterp@hotmail.com, eBay ID: richardf280)

36 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

Sue Van Nattan, known for her clever uses of vintage fabrics and retro accessories, has an eye toward the future and a connection to the past. Her haunting of antique stores and flea markets helped her to take stock of what is happening around the world and in our own backyards. In these tumultuous days, filled with economic woes, foreign strife, and ecological disasters, I find comfort in traditional values, my circle of family and friends, and wellloved holiday customs. I believe its often the small things in life that hold great meaning for us. I recently came across this poem, which was written on a postcard dated 1910. It sums up the way I think we all feel about our beloved teddies. It says: Heres something to love and something to tease, Something to cuddle and something to squeeze. A friend for your lifetime wholl always be there, Demanding of nothing, just hoping youll care. Someone wholl stick thro storm and thro fair, A dear little, cute little Brown Teddy Bear. I think we all need to hold on tight to our Teddies and to one another. We will be okay.

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Shelly Lampshire is holding on for a holiday miracle. Her one-of-a-kind creation exemplifies her faith that miracles do happen all we have to do is hope and believe. Miracle is made of mohair upholstery fabric and features embossed leather pads. The bears necklace is vintage, and the eyes and nose are hand-painted paper clay. The bear Miracle is perfect for Christmas, and also is ideal for Hanukkah, because the colors are reminiscent of that holiday, too, Lampshire told TBR. (http://shellylampshire.com, lampshireoriginals@yahoo.com)

Father Christmas symbolizes the spirit of charity for artist Jane Woodard. Although the original Father Christmas of the 17th century was not known for gift-giving, this changed over the years, and he eventually brought presents to children and woodland animals. An annual tradition for Woodard, this years bear rendering is made from a recycled mink coat and wears a handmade tapestry robe and hat trimmed in fur. He is accompanied by some of his woodland friends. (www.heirbears.com, Heirbears@aol.com)

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Above: Christmas is a time for thinking about the least among us, and Singapore artist Wayne Lim firmly believes that animals are at risk in a dangerous and volatile world. To this end, he is making realistic depictions of natures denizens: Herbie is one of the squirrels I made this year. I wanted to make something that would convey the message of save our earth. We have been doing a lot to protect ourselves, but not as much for the animals and our environment, which are at risk from the harmful effects of global warming, deforestation, and all kinds of pollution. I hope that Herbie will serve to remind everyone to do his/her part and save our earth. I hope that we would all want our children to be able to live with the beautiful creations of Mother Nature. Christmas is the perfect time to think about reaching out and doing better. (waynestonbears@yahoo.com.sg)

My creation of Hope has a special place in my heart, as she represents the faith and hope I needed to fight breast cancer. With a positive attitude and a sense of humor, I did just that, Barbara K. Burke said. (bbwuvncuddles@aol.com)

38 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

Tracking theMarket

By Dee Hockenberry Photos by Tom Hockenberry

ith mixed emotions, I have decided, after more than 20 years of writing for Teddy Bear Review, to bid you all a fond adieu. It has been my pleasure to be associated with Joe and all the staff, and I thank them for being so appreciative of my efforts. Over the years I have seen many changes in both the direction of the magazine and of collecting in general. New and highly creative artists enter the field with enthusiasm and the emphasis seems to be with them. With this in mind, even though I featured some of the pioneers earlier this year, I feel it fitting to end my final column with more of their works of art. Most of the bears featured have holiday themes, but this does not represent their creators bodies of work. Once again, no prices are given since artist bears fluctuate greatly in the secondary market. May you all find happiness and success in the coming years. I shall be winging my way, as long as Im able, in the pursuit of adventure (and maybe a bear or two.) As was said by the writer Susan Sontag, I havent been everywhere, but its on my list. Goodbye, farewell, adios, adieu, auf weidersehen, and cheerio.
Below: Mr. and Mrs. Claus stand 17 inches and 16 inches, respectively. The limited edition of 10 from 1993 was made by Rita Casey using mohair and velvet clothing. Above: Miss Emily (circa 1987) was designed by Beverly Port for the Gorham Company and was released in a limited edition of 2,500. Below: This pair of artistically dressed and accessorized bears was released by Lasting Endearments in the 1980s. Sonja Grizzlyann Bearinski is 10 inches tall and Baby Noel is just two inches. Both are made of plush over an armature.

Goodbye and Good Luck

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Left: Nancy Crowes 24-inch Father Christmas was fashioned with details including a wool coat, silk vest, cotton scarf, and leather satchel filled with toys. This was a limited edition of five, each somewhat different, released in 1994. Above Left: Santa Bear by Germanys Elke Kraus is a 13 inch mohair creation with green and red trim. The limited edition of 20 was released in 1993. Above Right: Gloria Franks made 24inch Mary Ann using mohair in 1996, along with her dress and rag doll. Right: Made by Australian artist Ronwyn Graham, Larrabee is a 21-inch mohair bear wearing collar and tie from 1997.

Event Calendar
California
Nov. 12. Crossroads Doll & Teddy Bear Show & Sale. Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, 344 Tully Rd, San Jose, CA 95111. Meet your favorite dealers at this popular show. 9am-3pm. Contact: Dorothy Drake, (775) 348-7713, dorothy@dolls4all.com, www.dolls4all.com. Nov. 13. Santa Rosa Doll and Toy Show & Sale. Santa Rosa Veterans Memorial Bldg., 1351 Maple Ave., Santa Rosa, CA 95402. 10am-3:30pm Contact: Nina, (707) 8389672, santarosadollshow@gmail.com, http://santarosadollshow.blogspot.com.

Massachusetts

Oct. 29-30. Maven Co. Doll, Toy and Teddy Bear Show. The Holyoke Holiday Inn, 245 Whiting Farms Rd., Holyoke, Ma, MA 01040. 10Am Contact: Martin, fasttrack@rcn.com, www.mavencompany.com.

Dec. 4. Orphans in the Attic. Serb Hall, 5101 W. Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53234. 10am-3pm Contact: Sue Serio, (262) 646-5058, sueserio@gmail.com. Oct. 16. Altrusa 32nd Annual Doll & Antiques Show and Sale. St Matthew Gymnasium, 225 So 28th Avenue, Wausau, WI 54401. Collectible - Vintage - Limited Edition Dolls -Toys-Antiques; $4 Adults/ Age 12 Free ; Raffle - Food Court - Repairs; Free Parking. 10 am to 4 pm. Dealers: Delores Clancey, daclancey@msn.com, www.wausaualtrusa.org.

Wisconsin

Maryland

Georgia
Oct. 16. Greater Atlanta Teddy Bear Show. Embassy Suites Alpharetta, 5955 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta (Atlanta), GA 30022. 10am-3pm. Contact: Valerie Rogers, (502) 423-7827, brtstar1@aol.com, www.bright-star-promotions.com

Nov. 12. Hunt Valley Christmas Holiday Teddy Bear Show and Sale. Embassy Suites Baltimore North Hotel, 213 International Circle, Hunt Valley, MD 21030. More than 1500 bears for collectors to choose from, as well as bear making supplies and other teddy bear collectible items. 10am to 3:30pm Contact: (717) 993-3041, janet@janetwilsonsbears.com, www.teddybearsonvacation.com.

Ontario, Canada

Michigan

Iowa
Nov. 13. 28th Annual Wonderland Doll, Toy & Bear Show & Sale. Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds, 2815 West Locust Street, Davenport, IA 52804. Contact: Dora Pitts, (563) 242-0139, iadollsh@yahoo.com.

Oct. 16. Lansing, Michigan Doll Show. Banquet & Conference Center of DeWitt, 1120 Commerce Park Drive, DeWitt, MI 48820. 9:30am-3pm Contact: Sandy Johnson Barts, (269) 599-1511, SJBbetsys@comcast.net. Nov. 6. Ann Arbor Teddy Bear Show. Weber's Inn, 3050 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103. 9:30am-3pm. Contact: Valerie Rogers, brtstar1@aol.com, www.bright-star-promotions.com.

Nov. 20. Toronto Christmas Holiday Teddy Bear Show and Sale. Toronto Botanical Garden, 777 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto, M3C 1P2. 10am to 3:30pm Contact: Mark Mckay, (416) 703-1697, mckayabbey@rogers.com, www.teddybearsonvacation.com.

Oct. 1-31. Online Hallowe'en Artists' Studio Trick or Treat at www.halloween studiotour.com. Contact: Karen Waschinski, woosel@total.net.

Online

Washington
Oct. 15-16. Crossroads Doll & Teddy Bear Show & Sale. Puyallup Fair & Event Center, 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA 98371. The Northwest's favorite show, all your favorite dealers will be there. 10am-4pm Contact: dorothy drake, (775) 348-7713, dorothy@dolls4all.com, www.dolls4all.com.

Kentucky
Oct. 23. Greater Cincinnati Area Teddy Bear Show. Holiday Inn Cincinnati Airport, 1717 Airport Exchange Blvd, Erlanger, KY 41018. 10am-3pm. Contact: Valerie Rogers, brtstar1@aol.com, www.bright-star-promotions.com.

To enter your event online and in the magazine, click on Events at www.teddybearreview.com. E-mailed or mailed events will not be accepted; you must enter the event online.

40 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review

Highlights from 25 years of Teddy Bear Review!

n the beginning there was Ted Menten, who wrote a column about teddy bears for DOLLS magazine, then published by Collector Communications Corporation. He also wrote several books about teddy bears, and as he saw the expanding world of artist bears and bear collecting in the 80s, he thought there should be a whole magazine about teddy bears not just antique bears, or artist bears, or manufactured bears, but one that would enjoy and celebrate all Teddies. He took this idea to DOLLS Publisher Robert Campbell Rowe and Editor Krystyna Poray Goddu, and in 1986, the first quarterly issue of Teddy Bear Review was released and the first Golden Teddy Awards contest was announced. Under Mentens guidance, TBR covered teddy bears from all over the world, made of all kinds of materials by new and established artists as well as manufacturers. There were how-to articles

and patterns; coverage of teddy bear shows, shops, and the growing number of teddy bear charities, including Good Bears of the World, which is still going strong to this day. Celebrity bear collectors, teddy bears in the news, and an amazing variety of teddy bear-related products, both new and antique, all had their place within TBRs pages. By 1991, TBR went from four to six issues per year, and by the end of the magazines first decade, something new was appearing in its pages with increasing frequency: web addresses. The Internet was a huge game changer for teddy bear collectors.

Above: The Teddy Bear Review preview issue (top) featured a Zucker Bear by Barbara Sixby. TBRs Premiere issue from 1986 put the spotlight on a bear by Laurie Sasaki of Bearrie Patch. Left: Famed bear artist Beverly Port was the subject of Teddy Bear Reviews first artist profile inside the Premiere issue from 1986.

Teddy Bear Review

Merry Christmas from

Martha Burch Martha' s Bears
of
www.marthasbears.com mdrbears@aol.com 262-338-6954
www.teddybearreview.com

www.teddybearreview.com

Visit us online!

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Shops and artists could now reach collectors around the world through their own websites and through sites like eBay and, later, Etsy. And collectors could communicate with each other and with their favorite artists and dealers through e-mail and dedicated forums on the web, and now social media sites like Facebook. While the Internet and the economic troubles of recent years have each caused a great deal of disruption both inside and outside our hobby, theres no question that peoples fondness for teddy bears themselves is still going strong. Teddies and other stuffed critters have been cuddly buddies for kids and discerning grownups for more than a century, and we here at Teddy Bear Review are looking forward to many more years of enjoyment and celebration of our furry pals.
Clockwise from upper left: Teddy Bear Review reported on this 1904 Steiff Teddy Girl at right in the photo, which sold for a record 110,000 at an auction at Christies in London in December 1994, setting a new world record This high-flying hot-air teddy balloon raised money for the American Diabetes Association in Delaware, and appeared in the August 2000 issue of TBR 2002 also marked the 100th anniversary of the teddy bear itself. This special 180-page collectors edition of TBR was just part of the magazines celebration of this crucial milestone TBRs August 1996 issue included an interview with celebrity bear collector and designer Annette Funicello The Broadway Bears charity auction and sale held its fifth annual gala in February 2002, and TBR was there to cover it One of the most unusual products advertised in TBR has to be gummi-bear fragrance (in gold bottles for women and silver for men) from the Orange Perfume Company); the ad ran in the December 1998 issue TBR has marked both occasions for celebration and for sadness. The February 2003 issue paid tribute to Russ Berrie as his company celebrated 40 years in the bear-making business. Sadly, the following issue reported on the philanthropists death at age 69.

42 December 2011 Teddy Bear Review