It was not until 1919 that the first mohair Teddy Bear came from France.  This Teddy Bear was produced by a company called Pintel.

Marcel Pintel first began producing stuffed toys (les jouets bourres) for his Father's firm in Paris in 1913.  The first ‘Pintel' Teddies, however, were infact rather delicate, firmly stuffed and had tapered limbs.  These Teddy Bears proved to be so popular that production had to be sent to other French soft toy companies including Thiennot.  Sadly, during the Second World War the company had to close down, but after the war, they started production once again using whatever materials were available to them.  M.  Pintel Fils, carried on production up until 1976, when the factory doors were closed for good.

Pintel Teddy Bears that were produced before the 1930's had a metal button attached to their chest.

Early French toy production centred around mechanical toys, hence thecountry's first Teddy Bears were mechanical.  Pintel produced a Teddy on a tricycle around 1915.  This was a very popular toy and continued in production up until 1940.

Pintel also produced Bears on Wheels between 1927 and 1930, just like so many other toy companies.

Some distinguishing features of a Pintel Teddy Bear are :

Eyes stitched into the back of bears head ;
A long muzzle ;
Large feet ;
Paw pads with three claws ;
A voice box.

Another French Company, Fadap (Fabrication Artistique d'Animaux en Peluche) began Teddy Bear production in 1925 from their factory in Divonne-les-Bains.  Early Fadap Teddy Bears are rather tubby, they have long arms and thick paws.  They are indeed very close in their looks to the Pintel bears but one giveaway to identifying a Fadap Teddy Bear is they tend to have upturned noses and they also have a seam under their chin.  Old Fadap Teddy Bears also wore a metal button in their ear, with the words ‘'Fadap'' and ‘'France'' embossed on it.  Sadly, Fadap closed it's doors in 1978.

Emile Thiennot worked for Marcel Pintel earlier in his life, but in 1919, he set up on his own selling bears and other soft toys under the trade name of Jouet Champenois.  In 1920, Thiennot won a prize for one of his Teddy Bears.  In 1957, the firm, however, changed it's name to Creation Tieno.  The firm closed it's doors in 1993.  Many early Teddy Bears made by this company are quite difficult to identify and could and often do,  get mistaken for Pintel Teddy Bears.

Jan Jac -  This company is one of the many French soft toy companies to have produced Teddy Bears in the 1950's.  Teddy Bears produced by this company can be identified by :

Short arms ;
Red felt tongue ;
Shaggy mohair.

Today, French Teddy Bears are very collectible and are easily identifiable, just like their British or German counterparts.  A modern French Teddy Bear maker is the firm Blanchet and, as far as we know, they are still making bears to this day.

Vintage old Deans Childsplay Toy Panda teddy bear with label 1957 1961 19 US $23.61

Carters Baby PINK Teddy Bear Security Blanket Lovey You Are My Sunshine US $9.99

RARE STEIFF GODINGER CRYSTAL TEDDY BEAR ISSUED PRE 1990 US $86.64

Gund Teddy Bear Valentine Gift with Red Box Bow Lid 18 Adorable Shiny Brown New US $34.99

Paul Cardew 2000 Teddy Bear Teapot Ted Tea Designed in England Cupcakes US $24.99

PATRIOTIC VERMONT TEDDY BEAR COMPANY Rare Red White Blue Bear US $59.95

Unique SUPER FINE 100 Baby ALPACA Fur Stuffed NEW Artist Teddy Bear US $32.99

GIRLS TEDDY BEAR MITTEN GLOVES BROWN PINK CHILDS MITTEN GLOVES NEW £850 US $1.56

Beautiful Teddy Bear and Rabbits Patchwork Girls Dress 70 cm long 3 6 years US $2.36

Antique beautiful Teddy bear made in argentina 1930s US $120.00

baby boy long sleeve teddy bear duck rattle 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $2.99

2008 Steiff Club Bear 420955 12inch Golden Mohair Teddy NEW W cert Bag 21 of ed US $159.00

15 Plush SNUGGLE Fabric Softnet RUSS Teddy Bear w Tags 1986 US $29.95

baby boy baby gap long sleeve teddy bear 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $3.99

HERMANN TEDDY ORIGINAL LE 30CMS 40th ANNIVERSARY BEAR BLACK US $30.72

0 3 Carters White with Hearts Teddy Bear Outfit US $5.50

Antique Teddy Bear Stuffed Toy Vintage Retro Mid Century Modern Stitched US $49.00

Womans Teddy Bear Slippers Sz 85 95 US $49.79

TY TEDDY BEAR WITH PATRIOTIC SWEATER 12 Plush STUFFED ANIMAL Toy US $15.50

Russ Bears from the Past WHITE TEDDY BEAR Plush Toy NEW US $17.50

Question by coolduck1990: How do I stick stud earrings on a teddy bear as a surprise gift to my gf?
How do I stick stud earrings on a bear as a surprise gift to my gf?

I bought stud earrings for my gf. But I was planning to put them on a teddy bear's ears such as from build a bear as a different way to present them as a gift. But how should I go about putting them on the bear cause they are stud earrings and I dont want to ruin them.

Best answer:

Answer by Kee
Be careful. If the stud is too small or the ear is too thick, it will ruin the earrings. My suggestion? If you are going to do it, stick the ears with a needle first and twist them enough that there is a big enough hole in the ears for the stud to slide in.

What do you think? Answer below!

Aurora World Aurora Plush 12" Brown Bear Tubbie Wubbie
Aurora only uses lock washer or embroidered eyes and nose for safety....

Corduroy Bear Sm 9"
World renowned Corduroy Teddy Bear-a perfect gift for any child....

Gund Bear "Fleming"
Fleming is a lovable two-toned bear with a light brown body and a cream-colored face and belly. He has beans in his bottom and fee...

GOOBER BEAR 11"
From Gund, this roly-poly teddy bear is sure to warm hearts young and old. Made of soft huggable plush fabric, Goober has a loveab...

Post from: Doll And Bear World

French Teddy Bears

In 1850, two brothers, Joseph and Alfred Johnson, began a business together in George Street, Birmingham, the business was called Johnson Brothers.  The speciality of the business was mainly in stationery.  However, in 1897, Joseph Johnson, who by this time was running the business with his son, moved to new premises in the village of Harborne, near Birmingham, at this point the business changed it's name to Johnson Brothers Harborne, at the same time the factory was known as the Chad Valley Works, after the Chad Valley stream which runs through the village.

In 1897, the company trademarked ‘Chad Valley' as their name to market toys and some cardboard games.  Not long after, Chad Valley started to produce soft toys.

In 1969, Chad Valley took over the famous soft toy company, Chiltern, another soft toy/teddy bear manufacturer and once again they moved premises, this time to Pontypool in Wales.

Sadly, due to the 1970's soft toy recession, the company was taken over by Pallitoy.  In 1988, Woolworths bought the Chad Valley name and they moved their soft toy production to the Far East.

Chad Valley produced some wonderful Teddy Bears and these days there are lots of Chad Valley Teddy Bears living in collections around the world.  The first Teddy Bear produced by Chad Valley appeared in their catalogue in 1914 – 1915.  This Teddy Bear came in three sizes and came in five different fabrics.

Chad Valley Teddy Bears can be quite easily identified, having some very distinguishable characteristics:

Early Chad Valley Teddy Bears are fully jointed and stuffed with kapok.  However, some very early examples are stuffed with cork;
Early Bears have a celluloid ID button in either an ear or in their upper torso;
Very early Teddy Bears have eyes made of large amber and black glass;
Chad Valley Teddy Bears have big ears, often sewn over the facial seams;
Earlier Teddy Bears have triangular shaped noses with vertical stitching while later Teddy Bears (1938 onwards) have a wide rectangular nose (called a ‘bound' nose) with vertical stitching.

A famous Chad Valley Teddy Bear is a little bear from the 1950's called Toffee.  Toffee was based on a wonderful character from the famous television series called ‘Listen With Mother.'  Toffee wore a little red knitted hat and scarf.  Made circa. 1954, the sweet little Toffee Teddy Bear is very collectible and is quite hard to find these days,  but beware, as there are a number of fakes on the market.  Another British Teddy Bear Company called Farnell also made their own version of Toffee Bear.

At the height of it's success Chad Valley was granted the Royal Warrant of Appointment in 1938, as toy makers to Her Majesty the Queen.  Indeed, after 1938, the Chad Valley labels carried the royal coat of arms with the words "Toy Makers to Her Majesty the Queen" written on them.  After the coronation of Elizabeth 11 in 1953, the words changed to "Queen Mother."

In addition to Teddy Bears, Chad Valley produced a variety of soft toy animals and felt dolls (which included the ever popular Mabel Lucie-Attwell doll made in the 1920's).  Like many other manufacturers, they too, produced pandas after the first Panda was introduced to London Zoo.

Chad Valley also held the rights to produce British comedian Harry Corbett's glove puppet Sooty in 1952.  They continued producing it well into the 1980's.

The first Sooty was bought by Harry Corbett from an old lady on Blackpool Pier.  Corbett blackened the nose and ears with soot, hence the famous Teddy Bear's name, Sooty. 

Vintage old Deans Childsplay Toy Panda teddy bear with label 1957 1961 19 US $23.61

Carters Baby PINK Teddy Bear Security Blanket Lovey You Are My Sunshine US $9.99

RARE STEIFF GODINGER CRYSTAL TEDDY BEAR ISSUED PRE 1990 US $86.64

Gund Teddy Bear Valentine Gift with Red Box Bow Lid 18 Adorable Shiny Brown New US $34.99

Paul Cardew 2000 Teddy Bear Teapot Ted Tea Designed in England Cupcakes US $24.99

PATRIOTIC VERMONT TEDDY BEAR COMPANY Rare Red White Blue Bear US $59.95

Unique SUPER FINE 100 Baby ALPACA Fur Stuffed NEW Artist Teddy Bear US $32.99

GIRLS TEDDY BEAR MITTEN GLOVES BROWN PINK CHILDS MITTEN GLOVES NEW £850 US $1.56

Beautiful Teddy Bear and Rabbits Patchwork Girls Dress 70 cm long 3 6 years US $2.36

Antique beautiful Teddy bear made in argentina 1930s US $120.00

baby boy long sleeve teddy bear duck rattle 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $2.99

2008 Steiff Club Bear 420955 12inch Golden Mohair Teddy NEW W cert Bag 21 of ed US $159.00

15 Plush SNUGGLE Fabric Softnet RUSS Teddy Bear w Tags 1986 US $29.95

baby boy baby gap long sleeve teddy bear 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $3.99

HERMANN TEDDY ORIGINAL LE 30CMS 40th ANNIVERSARY BEAR BLACK US $30.72

0 3 Carters White with Hearts Teddy Bear Outfit US $5.50

Antique Teddy Bear Stuffed Toy Vintage Retro Mid Century Modern Stitched US $49.00

Womans Teddy Bear Slippers Sz 85 95 US $49.79

TY TEDDY BEAR WITH PATRIOTIC SWEATER 12 Plush STUFFED ANIMAL Toy US $15.50

Russ Bears from the Past WHITE TEDDY BEAR Plush Toy NEW US $17.50

Question by skittle: What is the best way to breed teddy-bear hamsters?
I am looking into getting a male teddy bear hamster and a female teddy bear hamster. My friend is an excellent breeder but she lives far away now and I don't talk to her much. I need suggestions and techniques.
Thank you.

Best answer:

Answer by seasis
Well, if you're asking this question, you shouldn't be breeding them, you don't sound like you're ready yet.

Add your own answer in the comments!
Angel bears strenghten hearts of cancer fighters: 'I'm on a mission from God'
At one point of her life, Maralee Halterman of Ottawa needed hope. "Twenty-one years ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and I was lucky to become a survivor," recalled Halterman. "Not long afterwards, I bought an angel bear
Read more on The Ottawa Times

The music video for the fourth single released off of Toy-Box's debut album "FanTastic". For more information on these and other similar artists, check out www.bubblegumdancer.com
Video Rating: 4 / 5

Aurora World Aurora Plush 12" Brown Bear Tubbie Wubbie
Aurora only uses lock washer or embroidered eyes and nose for safety....

The Teddy Bear
The little boy and his teddy bear were always together. Every night, when the little boy went to sleep, his teddy bear was r...

Corduroy Bear Sm 9"
World renowned Corduroy Teddy Bear-a perfect gift for any child....

Gund Bear "Brighton"
Snow white plush bear with brown stitched nose is accented with a sheer white satin bow with white polka dots....

Post from: Doll And Bear World

Teddy Bears by Chad Valley

Almost since the Teddy Bears birth back in 1902, the Teddy Bear has been making his mark in the field of advertising.  You really don't have to travel very far these days before you see that familiar smiling face of the Teddy Bear staring back at you from a shop window or even a car dealership.

Manufacturers of practically every item you can think of, has at one point or another, used the Teddy Bear's image to promote their products from confectionery to cosmetics, from cereals to brandy.   Sometimes, the advertisers will use a ‘realistic' Teddy Bear while at other times he may show a Teddy Bear that has been drawn with some humour or, even with some human qualities, depending on what it is the Teddy Bear is promoting.

In 1925, Rowntrees used a charming Teddy Bear on their cardboard advertisement.  Rowntrees show the Teddy Bear walking whilst at the same time carrying a banner with the words "Rowntree's Chocolates In Fancy Boxes Make Dainty Gifts" written on it.

One of the most famous Teddy Bears ever used in the field of advertising was the Teddy Bear known as ‘Chad' from Bear Brand stockings.  Practically every woman who ever wore nylons would have seen the wonderful Teddy Bear advertising them and probably every woman would have fallen in love with him.

Teddy Bears are used not only in the market of product placement but, they are also used to help promote charities.  For example, take the famous Pudsey Bear who helps raise funds for Children In Need.  Pudsey Bear was born in 1986 and he is named after the Yorkshire town of Pudsey, which just happens to be the home of his creator, Joanne Pidgeon.  Originally, Pudsey Bear was intended to host BBC's Children In Need Appeal for just one year.  However, for reasons unknown to everyone, Pudsey proved to be so popular that he was asked to stay on and soon he became the Charity's official mascot.  Now he is known by everyone.

His looks have evolved somewhat over the years into the big, cuddly yellow bear that we have all grown to know and love.

The image of Pudsey Bear has been used on many items including mugs, keyrings and many soft toy companies have made their own versions of him.  Like all Teddy Bears, Pudsey Bear can be relied upon to comfort children in times of need, for this is the Teddy Bears forte.

Teddy Bear advertising ephemera is always worthy buying, especially if the items are in good condition, as it is always very desirable and often collected by Teddy Bear collectors who are looking for special items of Teddy ephemera to add to their Teddy Bear collection.

I would just like to end this article by saying that the word of advertising certainly owes the Teddy Bear a huge big thank you.

Vintage old Deans Childsplay Toy Panda teddy bear with label 1957 1961 19 US $23.61

Carters Baby PINK Teddy Bear Security Blanket Lovey You Are My Sunshine US $9.99

RARE STEIFF GODINGER CRYSTAL TEDDY BEAR ISSUED PRE 1990 US $86.64

Gund Teddy Bear Valentine Gift with Red Box Bow Lid 18 Adorable Shiny Brown New US $34.99

Paul Cardew 2000 Teddy Bear Teapot Ted Tea Designed in England Cupcakes US $24.99

PATRIOTIC VERMONT TEDDY BEAR COMPANY Rare Red White Blue Bear US $59.95

Unique SUPER FINE 100 Baby ALPACA Fur Stuffed NEW Artist Teddy Bear US $32.99

GIRLS TEDDY BEAR MITTEN GLOVES BROWN PINK CHILDS MITTEN GLOVES NEW £850 US $1.56

Beautiful Teddy Bear and Rabbits Patchwork Girls Dress 70 cm long 3 6 years US $2.36

Antique beautiful Teddy bear made in argentina 1930s US $120.00

baby boy long sleeve teddy bear duck rattle 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $2.99

2008 Steiff Club Bear 420955 12inch Golden Mohair Teddy NEW W cert Bag 21 of ed US $159.00

15 Plush SNUGGLE Fabric Softnet RUSS Teddy Bear w Tags 1986 US $29.95

baby boy baby gap long sleeve teddy bear 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $3.99

HERMANN TEDDY ORIGINAL LE 30CMS 40th ANNIVERSARY BEAR BLACK US $30.72

0 3 Carters White with Hearts Teddy Bear Outfit US $5.50

Antique Teddy Bear Stuffed Toy Vintage Retro Mid Century Modern Stitched US $49.00

Womans Teddy Bear Slippers Sz 85 95 US $49.79

TY TEDDY BEAR WITH PATRIOTIC SWEATER 12 Plush STUFFED ANIMAL Toy US $15.50

Russ Bears from the Past WHITE TEDDY BEAR Plush Toy NEW US $17.50

Question by Jeremy S: How to clean a teddy bear that the cleaners wont?
The old lady has a teddy bear she wants to give to our unborn angel, probably the devil really. But is old and dirty and the cleaners wont clean. I say take the carpet cleaner to it, but she says to ask you. Please help. Thank You in advance.

Best answer:

Answer by taximomuv3
I just wash stuffed animals in the washing machine - preferably a front-loader if you have one. Haven't had any fall apart yet, but you don't say if it's a collectible or fragile fabric, but if it's just a regular teddy bear, it should be fine.

Give your answer to this question below!

Enesco Alfie 19" Bear Plush
From Gund, Alfie the Bear is arguably the world's most huggable teddy. He's made with the softest, finest plush materials and has ...

Gund Dylan Teddy Bear - Small
Gund Dylan Teddy Bear - Small The little brother of the Dylan Bears, this 13" Gund Teddy is a classically designed keepsake great ...

The Teddy Bear
The little boy and his teddy bear were always together. Every night, when the little boy went to sleep, his teddy bear was r...

Melissa & Doug Jumbo Blue Teddy Bear - Plush
Bear lovers will delight in hugging and tumbling with this super-soft, oversize bear, designed with quality construction for lots ...

Mary Meyer Sweet Chocolate Plush Bear, Pink, Small
Award winning Creamy Fabric makes this 8" pink bear as soft as can be, and accents are in fashionable chocolate brown! A classic f...

Post from: Doll And Bear World

Teddy Bears in Advertising

When it comes to birthday teddy bears, it's not about the money involved in buying the teddy bear, but the love symbolized through giving a teddy bear to someone who is important to you. Teddy bears have long been a symbol of comfort and love. Let's face it—how can you go wrong with a cute little birthday teddy bear? Personally, I remember the only birthday teddy bear that I've received and the day that I received it. It's something that I'll never forget and will always cherish.

Why? Well, first of all, birthday teddy bears normally symbolize an important birthday, a coming of age or perhaps the entrance to double digits—something that ever ten year old to be anticipates. The point? A birthday teddy is a really special gift that anyone will appreciate. So why should you buy a birthday teddy bear?

First of all, they're colorful and you can choose a variety of designs. With teddy bears, you aren't limited. If you want a bright purple teddy bear, you can get a bright purple teddy bear. If you want a teddy bear in a banana suit, you can get a teddy bear in a banana suit. The point? You aren't limited by the shape or color of a teddy bear, which makes them great for boys, girls, children, and adults.

Next, they're cheap. You don't have to spend two hundred dollars on a teddy bear and most people are more than happy with the cute little stuffed animal, instead of something that costs a whole bunch. Not to mention that with the variety, you don't have to worry about getting everyone the same bear.

Next, birthday teddy bears are customizable. You can take a plain little bear and make it special—make it just for the person whom you had in mind. This means special teddy clothes or the person's name or whatever else you can think of—you don't even really have to go to a specialty shop in order to create customized birthday teddy bears. This helps quite a bit, but it's not the only place they're available.

Teddy bears are also perfect for kids of all ages. There's no rule stating that you can't have teddy bears well into your seventies—and if you ask many older grandmothers, you'll probably discover that they have their own teddy bear collection. Especially of birthday teddy bears!

Birthday teddies are special and almost everyone can appreciate them. The point? You can take what's a normal, everyday type of toy and turn it into something special that everyone will appreciate and love. Why does this matter? Well, everyone likes having something special and just for them.

So take your time to quickly and easily look over special birthday teddy bears. Not only will you find a special gift just for your special birthday guy or gal, but you'll also be able to find something that they can keep or pass down to their children on their special days!

Vintage old Deans Childsplay Toy Panda teddy bear with label 1957 1961 19 US $23.61

Carters Baby PINK Teddy Bear Security Blanket Lovey You Are My Sunshine US $9.99

RARE STEIFF GODINGER CRYSTAL TEDDY BEAR ISSUED PRE 1990 US $86.64

Gund Teddy Bear Valentine Gift with Red Box Bow Lid 18 Adorable Shiny Brown New US $34.99

Paul Cardew 2000 Teddy Bear Teapot Ted Tea Designed in England Cupcakes US $24.99

PATRIOTIC VERMONT TEDDY BEAR COMPANY Rare Red White Blue Bear US $59.95

Unique SUPER FINE 100 Baby ALPACA Fur Stuffed NEW Artist Teddy Bear US $32.99

GIRLS TEDDY BEAR MITTEN GLOVES BROWN PINK CHILDS MITTEN GLOVES NEW £850 US $1.56

Beautiful Teddy Bear and Rabbits Patchwork Girls Dress 70 cm long 3 6 years US $2.36

Antique beautiful Teddy bear made in argentina 1930s US $120.00

baby boy long sleeve teddy bear duck rattle 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $2.99

2008 Steiff Club Bear 420955 12inch Golden Mohair Teddy NEW W cert Bag 21 of ed US $159.00

15 Plush SNUGGLE Fabric Softnet RUSS Teddy Bear w Tags 1986 US $29.95

baby boy baby gap long sleeve teddy bear 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $3.99

HERMANN TEDDY ORIGINAL LE 30CMS 40th ANNIVERSARY BEAR BLACK US $30.72

0 3 Carters White with Hearts Teddy Bear Outfit US $5.50

Antique Teddy Bear Stuffed Toy Vintage Retro Mid Century Modern Stitched US $49.00

Womans Teddy Bear Slippers Sz 85 95 US $49.79

TY TEDDY BEAR WITH PATRIOTIC SWEATER 12 Plush STUFFED ANIMAL Toy US $15.50

Russ Bears from the Past WHITE TEDDY BEAR Plush Toy NEW US $17.50

Weekend Watch: Midwest Kid Fest and Teddy Bear Parade
Friday Families, start your wagons. The annual Midwest Kid Fest kicks off Friday at 10:30 a.m. in Fargo's Island Park with the Teddy Bear Parade.
Read more on The Fargo Forum

Aurora Plush 12 inches Bongo Bear - Black
Aurora only uses lock washer or embroidered eyes and nose for safety....

Mary Meyer Sweet Chocolate Plush Bear, Blue, Small
Award winning Creamy Fabric makes this 8" blue bear as soft as can be, and accents are in fashionable chocolate brown! A classic f...

Downing Bear-Medium
Brand new from Gund is this beautiful bear covered in redish-brown fur. Downing features a burgundy and white ribbon around his ne...

Gund Bear "Fleming"
Fleming is a lovable two-toned bear with a light brown body and a cream-colored face and belly. He has beans in his bottom and fee...

GOOBER BEAR 11"
From Gund, this roly-poly teddy bear is sure to warm hearts young and old. Made of soft huggable plush fabric, Goober has a loveab...

Post from: Doll And Bear World

Why Birthday Teddy Bears are So Special

When you invite a teddy bear into your life, he will immediately become your best friend, companion and confidante and in return all your teddy bear asks for is a little Tender Loving Care.

When you buy an old teddy bear he will undoubtedly need some special care and attention, how much, of course, really depends upon how and where he has been living for the last few years.  Obviously, if an old teddy bear needs extensive renovation, it is always wise to consult an expert restorer and, to find one you can trust, which is most important, it is often a good idea to ask a specialist old teddy bear dealer for a recommendation.  Remember before having that old bear restored, it is very important to consider whether or not the restoration will be successful.  Extensive restoration of an old teddy bear can prove to be extremely expensive but it could also bring forth some disappointing results.

If you have an old teddy bear made by makers such as Steiff or Farnell, for example, it is even more important that the bear is expertly restored due, of course to it's high financial value.

There again, if you have an old and much loved teddy bear who needs lots of restoration, even though the cost of such restoration can sometimes greatly exceed the value of the dear old teddy bear, you may still prefer to have the repairs carried out rather than  lose a dear old friend forever.

If your old teddy bear is acceptable in his state of old age, you need to be sure he will not deteriorate further and, there are one or two things you can do about this.  Firstly dressing your old teddy bear with some loose fitting clothes will certainly help, as when you pick him up and give him a big cuddle you will not be touching the old bear's body.  If he is losing stuffing from his paw pads, putting socks and gloves on him will also help keep his stuffing in.

It is fine to wash very dirty teddy bears more than once if necessary to get them clean but immerse your bear in water!  Before washing your bear inspect his coat very carefully for bugs.  Either brush him very gently or hoover him, always making sure the hoover noozle is covered with either some muslin or an old nylon stocking.  This procedure will remove any dust or dirt from his coat.  Next, make sure your old teddy bear is sitting comfortably on a soft towel and next to him have a bowl of cool water.  To this water add a very small amount of gentle/sensitive wool wash and with just the very tips of your fingertips work this into a soft lather.  Then using a small soft brush (a baby brush is ideal) or even another fluffy towel wrapped around your fingertips, very very gently work just the foam from the lather over his coat, making sure you never get his fur too wet.  Remove as much of the foam from his coat as possible with another soft dry towel.  If you leave any foam on him, as he dries he will feel a bit sticky and this stickiness will attract more dust and dirt, so be certain to towel out as much as you can.  Never use any form of dryer, including a hairdryer, instead let him dry naturally (in an airing cupboard is superb).  When he is quite dry, use a fine metal comb to fluff him up, but always be most gentle.

Always inspect old and new teddy bears for moths.  A good moth repellent of course is still the old-fashioned moth-balls but neither your teddy bear or you will want to smell like that so, instead use some lavender bags (as moths hate the small of lavender) and/or put some dishes of conkers around your teddy bears as it is said moths hate conkers too – this is really worth a try and it don't cost anything.

Never put your teddy bear in direct sunlight, as this will cause your bear's coat to fade.

Do not sit your teddy bear near any form of central heating or smoke of any kind.

Never put your teddy bear in a plastic bag and store him away, as he will rot.

If your teddy bear is extremely dirty then pop him in a polythene bag of wheat bran, as this will draw out any deep-seated grime.  Then wash the bear in the order I have stated earlier.

Putting your old teddy bear in the freezer for three days should rid him of any bugs, but always keep him brushed and combed as dirt and dust attracts bugs and insects.

I would end this article by saying both old and new teddy bears love the attention of being brushed and combed and often this is a good time to talk to your teddy bear.  Your teddy whether old or new also likes to look his best, so help your friend to always look loved and to keep his dignity, after all, he gives you enough love.

I would end this article by saying always treat your teddy bear with the greatest respect and any cleaning you do, keep it very gentle and if you are in any doubt whatsoever about cleaning him, have it done by a professional.

Vintage old Deans Childsplay Toy Panda teddy bear with label 1957 1961 19 US $23.61

Carters Baby PINK Teddy Bear Security Blanket Lovey You Are My Sunshine US $9.99

RARE STEIFF GODINGER CRYSTAL TEDDY BEAR ISSUED PRE 1990 US $86.64

Gund Teddy Bear Valentine Gift with Red Box Bow Lid 18 Adorable Shiny Brown New US $34.99

Paul Cardew 2000 Teddy Bear Teapot Ted Tea Designed in England Cupcakes US $24.99

PATRIOTIC VERMONT TEDDY BEAR COMPANY Rare Red White Blue Bear US $59.95

Unique SUPER FINE 100 Baby ALPACA Fur Stuffed NEW Artist Teddy Bear US $32.99

GIRLS TEDDY BEAR MITTEN GLOVES BROWN PINK CHILDS MITTEN GLOVES NEW £850 US $1.56

Beautiful Teddy Bear and Rabbits Patchwork Girls Dress 70 cm long 3 6 years US $2.36

Antique beautiful Teddy bear made in argentina 1930s US $120.00

baby boy long sleeve teddy bear duck rattle 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $2.99

2008 Steiff Club Bear 420955 12inch Golden Mohair Teddy NEW W cert Bag 21 of ed US $159.00

15 Plush SNUGGLE Fabric Softnet RUSS Teddy Bear w Tags 1986 US $29.95

baby boy baby gap long sleeve teddy bear 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $3.99

HERMANN TEDDY ORIGINAL LE 30CMS 40th ANNIVERSARY BEAR BLACK US $30.72

0 3 Carters White with Hearts Teddy Bear Outfit US $5.50

Antique Teddy Bear Stuffed Toy Vintage Retro Mid Century Modern Stitched US $49.00

Womans Teddy Bear Slippers Sz 85 95 US $49.79

TY TEDDY BEAR WITH PATRIOTIC SWEATER 12 Plush STUFFED ANIMAL Toy US $15.50

Russ Bears from the Past WHITE TEDDY BEAR Plush Toy NEW US $17.50

Gund 18-Inch Brighton Bear
Big Brighton is a snow white bear who will win the hearts of all. Big Brightom stands a foot and a half tall and comes with a whit...

Gund 16 - Inch Manni Bear
Always a source of charm and comfort, GUND's line of teddy bears warms the heart of teddy bear enthusiasts young and old. Manni is...

Aurora Plush 12 inches Bongo Bear - Honey
Aurora only uses lock washer or embroidered eyes and nose for safety....

30" Plush Cuddly Large Stuffed Teddy Bear
No, hes not just another stuffed bear! Hes as cuddly as any teddy bear can possibly be, but its the smile on this 30" stuffed tedd...

Post from: Doll And Bear World

Taking Care of Your Teddy Bear

The first Merrythought Teddy Bear did not leave the factory until 1930 but the history of Merrythought certainly goes back further.  Somewhere back in 1919, W G Holmes (the present Managing Director's grandfather), went into partnership with Mr G H Laxton opening a rather small mill in Yorkshire.  Their idea was to manufacture mohair yarn from materials which they imported from the continent.  

In 1920, they took over a weaving factory in Huddersfield, and took on a Mr A C Janisch, who previously was in charge of sales at J.K. Farnell (the company believed to have produced the very first British Teddy Bear in 1908) and also a Mr C J Rendle, who was previously in charge of production at the Chad Valley Company (another great soft toy company who produced some very popular and collectable teddy bears).  Both of these men were to play a pivotal part in the early history of Merrythought.  Mr. Rendle infact brought many of the original Merrythought staff with him from Chad Valley including a young designer called Florence Atwood.

Florenc, who was deaf had studied design alongside Rendle's own daughter at the Deaf & Dumb School in Manchester.  In those times, people with disabilities always found it more difficult to realise their dreams in business, as they were often shunned, however, Florence,was put into a very important position at Merrythought and she prospered. She had a very keen eye for design and created  many toys.

The first Merrythought catalogue which was produced, actually incorporated 32 toys, all of which were single-handedly designed by Florence Atwood, including the first Merrythought Teddy Bear – the Magnet Teddy Bear.

On 3 September 1939, the factory was sadly taken over by the British Admiralty and was used for vital map-making work and Merrythought actually moved to premises in Wellington, Shropshire where they made gasmask bags and sleeve badges together with a variety of other essential items needed in war time.

Normal production returned to Coalbrookdale in 1946.

In 1946 a very special teddy bear called "Punkinhead" was produced by Merrythought for Eatons Department Store in Canada in 1949, being designed by Florence Atwood.  Punkinhead was produced as a rival to Rudolph the Reindeer who was being promoted by a nearby store.  Until 1956, this very unusual bear was used as the store's mascot and participated in a number of Christmas Parades through the streets.  The most distinctive feature of the Punkinhead Bear being his white topknot. 

After the departure of  Florence, a new designer was appointed to Merrythought, her name was Jean Barber.  Jean's designs included many for MGM and Disney, she was also famous for designing the now extremely famous and collectable Cheeky Bear.  The Cheeky Bear was originally made of gold plush and shaggy gold mohair, or art silk.  They were stuffed with kapok and they had bells in both ears.

However, since his birth, the Cheeky Bear has been produced in a vast array of fabrics and in some wonderful and truly amazing colours.

Cheeky Bear was originally made to be shown at a Trade Fair in 1956 and was originally shown in Jean Barber's pattern book and called Tubby Bear, but Merrythought's legend says that on arrival at the Merrythought Stand by Princess Elizabeth (who was soon to be Queen Elizabeth II), she picked up the little teddy bear and said "what a cheeky little bear" and the rest, as they say, is history.  Cheeky it was! and Cheeky the little teddy bear has remained!

Cheeky Bears are loved as much today (perhaps even more) than when they were first launched onto the teddy bear market and they are collected the world over, there are even collectors who collect just  Cheeky Bear.  Cheeky Bears fetch very high prices when they are sold at auction or at specialist Teddy Bear Fairs.  The Cheeky fetches more when he comes in a low limited edition and/or in an unusual colour or fabric.

Cheeky Bears are so full of charm and character and probably because of this, they certainly make excellent mascots.  The late and great singer, Dusty Springfield owned a little Cheeky Teddy Bear who she called Mr Einstein.

The popularity of Merrythought continued to grow and grow and during the 1990's they obtained the right to the Alpha Farnell name, Alpha Farnell being the makers who made the first British Teddy Bear way back in 1908.  This label now appears on some of their teddy bears.

Merrythought Teddy Bears are famous all around the world and are extremely popular with collectors.  Old Merrythought Teddy Bears age really well, probably because they were all handmade using only the best materials, they are excellent character teddy bears and when seated amongst a hug of assorted Teddy Bears will always stand out as extremely adorable.

I would end this article by saying that I have met many of the ladies both from the past and present who and made and who make Merrythought Teddy Bears and their love of the bears they make is amazing, which I always truly believe is taken on spiritually by the teddy bears they produce.

Vintage old Deans Childsplay Toy Panda teddy bear with label 1957 1961 19 US $23.61

Carters Baby PINK Teddy Bear Security Blanket Lovey You Are My Sunshine US $9.99

RARE STEIFF GODINGER CRYSTAL TEDDY BEAR ISSUED PRE 1990 US $86.64

Gund Teddy Bear Valentine Gift with Red Box Bow Lid 18 Adorable Shiny Brown New US $34.99

Paul Cardew 2000 Teddy Bear Teapot Ted Tea Designed in England Cupcakes US $24.99

PATRIOTIC VERMONT TEDDY BEAR COMPANY Rare Red White Blue Bear US $59.95

Unique SUPER FINE 100 Baby ALPACA Fur Stuffed NEW Artist Teddy Bear US $32.99

GIRLS TEDDY BEAR MITTEN GLOVES BROWN PINK CHILDS MITTEN GLOVES NEW £850 US $1.56

Beautiful Teddy Bear and Rabbits Patchwork Girls Dress 70 cm long 3 6 years US $2.36

Antique beautiful Teddy bear made in argentina 1930s US $120.00

baby boy long sleeve teddy bear duck rattle 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $2.99

2008 Steiff Club Bear 420955 12inch Golden Mohair Teddy NEW W cert Bag 21 of ed US $159.00

15 Plush SNUGGLE Fabric Softnet RUSS Teddy Bear w Tags 1986 US $29.95

baby boy baby gap long sleeve teddy bear 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $3.99

HERMANN TEDDY ORIGINAL LE 30CMS 40th ANNIVERSARY BEAR BLACK US $30.72

0 3 Carters White with Hearts Teddy Bear Outfit US $5.50

Antique Teddy Bear Stuffed Toy Vintage Retro Mid Century Modern Stitched US $49.00

Womans Teddy Bear Slippers Sz 85 95 US $49.79

TY TEDDY BEAR WITH PATRIOTIC SWEATER 12 Plush STUFFED ANIMAL Toy US $15.50

Russ Bears from the Past WHITE TEDDY BEAR Plush Toy NEW US $17.50

Teddy Bear's video promo starring Phil Spector.
Video Rating: 4 / 5

Blue 17" My First Teddy Bear
Floppy sitting Blue Teddy Bear with coordinating ribbon and embroidered paw pad that reads "My First Teddy". My First Teddy Blue ...

Melissa & Doug Jumbo Blue Teddy Bear - Plush
Bear lovers will delight in hugging and tumbling with this super-soft, oversize bear, designed with quality construction for lots ...

Aurora Plush Baby 14" Pink My First Teddy Bear
Aurora only uses lock washer or embroidered eyes and nose for safety....

Aurora Plush 12 inches Bongo Bear - Black
Aurora only uses lock washer or embroidered eyes and nose for safety....

Post from: Doll And Bear World

Merrythought Teddy Bears

The now very famous British soft toy company, Dean's Rag Book Company started as long ago as 1903.  Based then in Merton, South London.  To-day Dean's is one of the oldest surviving toy companies in Britain.

Dean's was started in 1903 by Henry Samuel Dean, first making the now very famous and indestructible ragbooks for children.  However, it was not until much later in 1915 that Dean's produced their first Teddy Bear.  Large scale production of teddy bears, however, did not really start until the 1920's.

During the 1930's Dean's produced a teddy bear which was known as the "mouse-eared" teddy, probably because he had a very round face and flat wide-apart ears (rather mouse-like).  His coat was pink and he had glass eyes and a rather beautifully stitched vertical nose.  Today this rather special old Dean's Bear would fetch a good price, depending of course, on his overall condition.

After the Second World War, business almost ceased, due mostly to synthetic materials having greater competition from elsewhere.  In 1955, the Merton factory was sold and production moved to Rye, Sussex.

When London Zoo's very first Polar Bear was born in 1949 (Brumas), Dean's produced a wonderful (and now very collectible) version of it's Mother, Ivy, holding her cub (Brumas).  Today, it is very hard to find both of these bears still together.  It is even harder to find a good example still with the Dean's label.

In  1972, Dean's merged with Gwentoys in Pontypool, Wales and from that time toys were made in both factories.  In 1988, a new Dean's Company was formed.  During this time, of course, there seemed to be a storm in the collecting field and this collecting bug included the collection of Teddy Bears, especially Limited Edition Teddy Bears made by the more famous Teddy Bear Makers such as Dean's.

A very famous and highly sought after Teddy Bear made by Dean's is the Black Bear, designed in the 1950's.  This teddy had claws which had been moulded from latex.  Dean's Black Bear is amazingly different from all other Dean's Teddy Bears.  This bear was based on a ‘real' bear and he had an unjointed and rather floppy body.  He also had the most unusual of glass eyes which was set in rubber sockets.  He also had a cream muzzle and a very large black rubber nose.  The Dean's Black Bear is a teddy you either love or hate.

Dean's introduced their lock-in safety eyes for their soft toy range in the very early 1950's, but these eyes were not used for their teddy bears until the late 1950's.  During the 1960's, Dean's began a safety campaign, making all their teddy bears suitable for young children.

Later, Dean's launched a very popular Collectors Club, producing a magnificent range of teddy bears, all of these bears designed to recreate characteristics used in early Dean's Bears.  Each person was given a teddy bear when he joined the Dean's Membership Club and then a new teddy bear was launched every year and only a member qualified to purchase one of these very handsome bears.

Sylvia Willgoss, one of Dean's designers created a large brown bear in the 1970's, this lovely bear was based on the real bears in London Zoo.  He is made of synthetic non-flammable hair with black safety eyes.  Like most of Sylvia's designs, he was made unjointed.  This bear comes in three sizes and also comes in rich gold and black.

Dean's also made musical teddy bears after the Second World War, like so many other teddy bear manufacturers.

Dean's was always famous for the dolls that they made and many of their most famous dolls were modelled on famous characters of the time from childrens' books and stories and famous stage actors, they included Arthur Askey, George Robey and Stanley Lupino Lane.  Today, these dolls are much sought after by collectors.

Indeed, to this day, Dean's are still producing Teddy Bears and are using some famous Teddy Bear Artists to help with their designs.  However, recently the factory once again moved from Pontypool and they now reside in Herefordshire.

I would end this article by saying that many teddy bear collectors around the world consider the Dean's Teddy Bear to be one of the most ‘romantic' of teddy bears, so they make wonderful gifts for anniversaries or other rather romantic occasions.

Vintage old Deans Childsplay Toy Panda teddy bear with label 1957 1961 19 US $23.61

Carters Baby PINK Teddy Bear Security Blanket Lovey You Are My Sunshine US $9.99

RARE STEIFF GODINGER CRYSTAL TEDDY BEAR ISSUED PRE 1990 US $86.64

Gund Teddy Bear Valentine Gift with Red Box Bow Lid 18 Adorable Shiny Brown New US $34.99

Paul Cardew 2000 Teddy Bear Teapot Ted Tea Designed in England Cupcakes US $24.99

PATRIOTIC VERMONT TEDDY BEAR COMPANY Rare Red White Blue Bear US $59.95

Unique SUPER FINE 100 Baby ALPACA Fur Stuffed NEW Artist Teddy Bear US $32.99

GIRLS TEDDY BEAR MITTEN GLOVES BROWN PINK CHILDS MITTEN GLOVES NEW £850 US $1.56

Beautiful Teddy Bear and Rabbits Patchwork Girls Dress 70 cm long 3 6 years US $2.36

Antique beautiful Teddy bear made in argentina 1930s US $120.00

baby boy long sleeve teddy bear duck rattle 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $2.99

2008 Steiff Club Bear 420955 12inch Golden Mohair Teddy NEW W cert Bag 21 of ed US $159.00

15 Plush SNUGGLE Fabric Softnet RUSS Teddy Bear w Tags 1986 US $29.95

baby boy baby gap long sleeve teddy bear 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $3.99

HERMANN TEDDY ORIGINAL LE 30CMS 40th ANNIVERSARY BEAR BLACK US $30.72

0 3 Carters White with Hearts Teddy Bear Outfit US $5.50

Antique Teddy Bear Stuffed Toy Vintage Retro Mid Century Modern Stitched US $49.00

Womans Teddy Bear Slippers Sz 85 95 US $49.79

TY TEDDY BEAR WITH PATRIOTIC SWEATER 12 Plush STUFFED ANIMAL Toy US $15.50

Russ Bears from the Past WHITE TEDDY BEAR Plush Toy NEW US $17.50

Corduroy Bear Sm 9"
World renowned Corduroy Teddy Bear-a perfect gift for any child....

Mary Meyer Sweet Chocolate Plush Bear, Pink, Small
Award winning Creamy Fabric makes this 8" pink bear as soft as can be, and accents are in fashionable chocolate brown! A classic f...

Melissa & Doug Jumbo Blue Teddy Bear - Plush
Bear lovers will delight in hugging and tumbling with this super-soft, oversize bear, designed with quality construction for lots ...

Aurora Plush Baby 14" Pink My First Teddy Bear
Aurora only uses lock washer or embroidered eyes and nose for safety....

Aurora Plush 12 inches Bongo Bear - Black
Aurora only uses lock washer or embroidered eyes and nose for safety....

Post from: Doll And Bear World

Dean’s Teddy Bears

Almost as soon as the Teddy Bear was born in 1902, Teddy Bear Ephemera was produced and started to flood the market, and was made in practically every kind of medium you can think of.  Even before the birth of the Teddy, bears have always been popular.

Teddy Bear items are now almost as collectible as Teddy Bears themselves.  Teddy Bears have been made in china and porcelain and they have been carved from wood, they have even been made in silver and gold and thousands of books have been written about them.

For decades Teddy Bear jewellery has been most popular and enjoyed by women of all ages and all classes.  Recently, however, Teddy Bear Jewellery has seen quite a revival due to certain celebrities such as Cheryl Cole being seen and photographed wearing teddy bear items of jewellery.  It seems too, the more unusual the better for celebrities such as Lady GaGa who has also been spotted wearing teddy jewellery.

Silver and Metal -  Teddy Bears made from silver have certainly been used to decorate a vast variety of objects, including baby rattles and teething rings and even condiment sets.  Many of these items were produced in Birmingham, England and because of British hallmarking, it is quite easy to date such items.  Many modern items have been made too, especially over the past twenty years or so, so you must ensure you do not mistake these items for antique silverware.

China -  Lots of china has been produced featuring the Teddy Bear and lots of these china items are small and made especially for children, such as Teddy Bear Tea Sets and as such, you will therefore find it almost impossible to find such items in perfect condition, but if you do, then these items certainly are very desirable for collectors.  Most china items were made in either England or Germany.  Again, there are modern replicas of such china made so, once again, caution should be used when buying an item, as it may not be antique.  Unfortunately, most old china of this nature had no special markings whatsoever.

Paintings -  There have been some truly remarkable paintings done of Teddy Bears and also Teddy Bears with Children.  These paintings will always have a lasting appeal and always sell very well at auction. 

Leigh Beavis West, is a popular watercolour artist and pictures of her classical portraits of Teddy Bears have been reproduced on such items as stationery, greetings cards and other gift items.  Ray Campbell, another popular artist has also done some wonderful oil paintings of Teddy Bears.

Books -  There have been just so many books written about Teddy Bears, including the most famous Rupert Bear, Paddington Bear and Winnie the Pooh, that this subject is just too big to discuss in an article of this nature.

Games and Puzzles -  Games and puzzles of Teddy Bears have been produced over a very long period of time.  Old examples of puzzles, especially when in good condition are much sought after by collectors but always check when buying a puzzles that all pieces are included.  There is nothing more disappointing than making up a puzzles only to find a piece is missing.  Most reputable dealers will have the puzzles ‘made-up' so as to ensure that it is complete.  There are numerous Teddy Bear games for sale, for both and new, together with some exciting Teddy Bear card games.

There really is too numerous items to write about here and there are always new ones to discover.  Teddy Bear Ephemera makes an interesting display when displayed on it's own, but it also looks wonderful when displayed with a hug of Teddy Bears.  Teddy bears look so attractive when displayed with interesting items and props and sometimes such items can even support an old bear who finds it hard to sit up on his own or a miniature teddy bear.  Also, many Teddy Bears enjoy wearing items of teddy jewellery, particularly if they wear interesting old clothes.

The list of such items is endless but it is always worth hunting for unusual objects which also, does not have to break the bank.

Vintage old Deans Childsplay Toy Panda teddy bear with label 1957 1961 19 US $23.61

Carters Baby PINK Teddy Bear Security Blanket Lovey You Are My Sunshine US $9.99

RARE STEIFF GODINGER CRYSTAL TEDDY BEAR ISSUED PRE 1990 US $86.64

Gund Teddy Bear Valentine Gift with Red Box Bow Lid 18 Adorable Shiny Brown New US $34.99

Paul Cardew 2000 Teddy Bear Teapot Ted Tea Designed in England Cupcakes US $24.99

PATRIOTIC VERMONT TEDDY BEAR COMPANY Rare Red White Blue Bear US $59.95

Unique SUPER FINE 100 Baby ALPACA Fur Stuffed NEW Artist Teddy Bear US $32.99

GIRLS TEDDY BEAR MITTEN GLOVES BROWN PINK CHILDS MITTEN GLOVES NEW £850 US $1.56

Beautiful Teddy Bear and Rabbits Patchwork Girls Dress 70 cm long 3 6 years US $2.36

Antique beautiful Teddy bear made in argentina 1930s US $120.00

baby boy long sleeve teddy bear duck rattle 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $2.99

2008 Steiff Club Bear 420955 12inch Golden Mohair Teddy NEW W cert Bag 21 of ed US $159.00

15 Plush SNUGGLE Fabric Softnet RUSS Teddy Bear w Tags 1986 US $29.95

baby boy baby gap long sleeve teddy bear 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $3.99

HERMANN TEDDY ORIGINAL LE 30CMS 40th ANNIVERSARY BEAR BLACK US $30.72

0 3 Carters White with Hearts Teddy Bear Outfit US $5.50

Antique Teddy Bear Stuffed Toy Vintage Retro Mid Century Modern Stitched US $49.00

Womans Teddy Bear Slippers Sz 85 95 US $49.79

TY TEDDY BEAR WITH PATRIOTIC SWEATER 12 Plush STUFFED ANIMAL Toy US $15.50

Russ Bears from the Past WHITE TEDDY BEAR Plush Toy NEW US $17.50

Buddy Society Party @ Highland Park Ebell Club 05/21/11
              The pre-show party for the Buddy Society event was a blast, introducing us to a beautiful old building in a part of Highland Park we've not yet explored. The boutique had a little something for everyone - teddy bear-adorned denim, event t-shirts, albums, pins, and more - and the opening DJ (Hyasynth) set kept the mood relaxed and intimate. [ more › ]
Read more on LAist

Gund Bear "Brighton"
Snow white plush bear with brown stitched nose is accented with a sheer white satin bow with white polka dots....

Corduroy Bear Sm 9"
World renowned Corduroy Teddy Bear-a perfect gift for any child....

Mary Meyer Sweet Chocolate Plush Bear, Pink, Small
Award winning Creamy Fabric makes this 8" pink bear as soft as can be, and accents are in fashionable chocolate brown! A classic f...

Gabriella Guardian Angel Plush Teddy Bear by Bearington
With a rosebud halo and pink satin wings, Gabriella is ready to watch over your special someone. Holding a satin ruffled pillow em...

Aurora Plush Baby 14" Pink My First Teddy Bear
Aurora only uses lock washer or embroidered eyes and nose for safety....

Post from: Doll And Bear World

Teddy Bear Ephemera

So, you have now built up quite a hug of Teddy Bears and now you want to display them.  Well, you certainly don't have to spend lots of money on this.  What I would suggest firstly is that you decide how you want them displayed.  Many collectors want to put all their Teddy Bears into a cabinet to keep them clean and dust free (especially Old Teddy Bears), whilst other collectors like to have their Teddy Bears displayed sitting in chairs, on beds, etc.   However you want your Teddy Bears to be displayed, adding a few extra props with your Teddy Bears always make your collection look just a little bit more special.

If you chose to display your Teddy Bears in a cabinet and especially if they are Old Bears, one thing that looks really good placed along with them is some old photographs.  Of course, it would be wonderful to have old photographs of the Teddy himself or even better, you and the Teddy Bear but as this is rarely possible, just by placing old photographs of yourself as a child, or old photos of someone that is special to you along with your special Teddy Bear really does lift the collection.  It is always a nice touch too, to get your photographs sepia toned, if they are black and white.  Most photographers will do this for you at a very reasonable price.

Another really good prop is to use an old book or two, even better if the book you use is old and about Teddy Bears, for example what better prop could you put with an Old Farnell Teddy Bear than an old book about Winnie-the-Pooh.  However, old books in general that over the years have built up some character in their own right does look great with Teddy Bears, once again especially Old Bears.

Some Teddy Bears have special friends who they cannot be parted from, for example an old stuffed dog  and these look great when they are displayed together, don't separate them.

One good tip is, during the summer when you visit a favourite seaside or a favourite city or town, take a favourite Teddy Bear with you and take some photographs of your bear around the place.  These photos of your special place look marvellous when they are displayed with your favourite Teddy Bear.  Along with your Teddy Bear they will also go down in history.

There are so many other pieces of Teddy Bear ephemera that look so good when placed with a hug of bears and they don't always have to cost a fortune either.  Some pine cones picked up whilst on a favourite walk in the countryside, a set of old keys, some old motoring memorabilia, old cooking memorabilia, some old ribbons and pieces of lace, some old cotton reels, a lovely old musical box, some old biscuit tins, sweet tins, old small toys from your childhood, all look stunning when seated with your Teddy Bears.

If your Teddy Bear collection is scattered around chairs and beds, then some old cushions look stunning, as does some handmade embroidered cushions, especially if they have some teddy motifs on them.  Why not sit your Teddy Bears on a shelf and behind them put an old stitched sampler, or a modern sampler with a Teddy Bear theme, infact any kind of old linen or cross-stitched article sets off your collection of Teddy Bears.

If you display your Teddy Bears in the right way you can increase their desirability tenfold.  How you display them really is up to you but incorporating a little bit of your history, especially family history one way or another really is worthwhile.

Don't forget, however, and wherever you display your hug of Teddy Bears, always remember to keep them brushed, even if they sit in a cabinet and watch out for moths and other undesirables, that way you and your Teddy Bears will have a lovely and interesting life together.

Vintage old Deans Childsplay Toy Panda teddy bear with label 1957 1961 19 US $23.61

Carters Baby PINK Teddy Bear Security Blanket Lovey You Are My Sunshine US $9.99

RARE STEIFF GODINGER CRYSTAL TEDDY BEAR ISSUED PRE 1990 US $86.64

Gund Teddy Bear Valentine Gift with Red Box Bow Lid 18 Adorable Shiny Brown New US $34.99

Paul Cardew 2000 Teddy Bear Teapot Ted Tea Designed in England Cupcakes US $24.99

PATRIOTIC VERMONT TEDDY BEAR COMPANY Rare Red White Blue Bear US $59.95

Unique SUPER FINE 100 Baby ALPACA Fur Stuffed NEW Artist Teddy Bear US $32.99

GIRLS TEDDY BEAR MITTEN GLOVES BROWN PINK CHILDS MITTEN GLOVES NEW £850 US $1.56

Beautiful Teddy Bear and Rabbits Patchwork Girls Dress 70 cm long 3 6 years US $2.36

Antique beautiful Teddy bear made in argentina 1930s US $120.00

baby boy long sleeve teddy bear duck rattle 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $2.99

2008 Steiff Club Bear 420955 12inch Golden Mohair Teddy NEW W cert Bag 21 of ed US $159.00

15 Plush SNUGGLE Fabric Softnet RUSS Teddy Bear w Tags 1986 US $29.95

baby boy baby gap long sleeve teddy bear 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $3.99

HERMANN TEDDY ORIGINAL LE 30CMS 40th ANNIVERSARY BEAR BLACK US $30.72

0 3 Carters White with Hearts Teddy Bear Outfit US $5.50

Antique Teddy Bear Stuffed Toy Vintage Retro Mid Century Modern Stitched US $49.00

Womans Teddy Bear Slippers Sz 85 95 US $49.79

TY TEDDY BEAR WITH PATRIOTIC SWEATER 12 Plush STUFFED ANIMAL Toy US $15.50

Russ Bears from the Past WHITE TEDDY BEAR Plush Toy NEW US $17.50

A few surprises in decades-long black bear study
Attacks happened mainly in Canada and nearly always involved lone males, not sows protecting cubs
Read more on The Globe and Mail

Aurora Plush 12 inches Bongo Bear - Black
Aurora only uses lock washer or embroidered eyes and nose for safety....

Mary Meyer Sweet Chocolate Plush Bear, Blue, Small
Award winning Creamy Fabric makes this 8" blue bear as soft as can be, and accents are in fashionable chocolate brown! A classic f...

The Teddy Bear
The little boy and his teddy bear were always together. Every night, when the little boy went to sleep, his teddy bear was r...

Aurora Plush Baby 14" Pink My First Teddy Bear
Aurora only uses lock washer or embroidered eyes and nose for safety....

Melissa & Doug Jumbo Pink Teddy Bear - Plush
Plumply-pink and stuffed with love, this oversize snuggle buddy is the perfect accent for your bear lover’s room. Made of soft, ...

Post from: Doll And Bear World

Displaying Teddy Bears

When you look at any of the famous Teddy Bear makers catalogues now, you will certainly find an array of Teddy Bears in almost every colour you can think of.  Today, coloured Teddy Bears are very popular with collectors, but despite our love of coloured Teddy Bears now, it has not always been the case.

Indeed, in the early years of the Teddy Bear, Steiff produced a few coloured bears, but these were sadly not a success, Teddy Bear lovers preferring the natural coloured Teddy Bears that they had become use to.  Only a few coloured Old Steiff Bears have survived, which is not surprising as not many were made.  However, when they do show up, they fetch big prices.  Take, for example, the adorable blue Steiff Teddy Bear called Elliott.  He was made in 1908 and was given by Steiff as a sample bear to the famous department store, Harrods.    No-one liked him, a blue bear just was not acceptable at that time and so he was put away.  Many years later he was found and was put to auction in 1993 at Christies Auction House in London where he fetched a whopping  49,500.

In the years between the First and the Second World Wars, German makers such as Schuco, Jopi and Cramer made coloured Teddy Bears.

Around 1930, the famous British company, Chad Valley, made a red teddy.  He was made in vivid red mohair, his paw pads also being made of red felt.  It is very rare to find this red Chad Valley Teddy Bear as not many were made.

Coloured Teddy Bears were actually fashion accessories in the 1930's and as such, these bears were produced for adults rather than for children.  Chad Valley also produced a Blue Teddy Bear.  In the 1920's they also made a novelty bear which was called ‘Rainbow Tubby Bears'.  These Teddy Bears came in a variety of colours and sizes.  Around their necks they wore a kind of jester ribbon with a bell attached to it.

Then in 1931, Chad Valley produced a pink Teddy Bear, which they actually sent to Steiff as a sample bear, to show them what Chad Valley could do.  When this magnificent Old Bear was returned from Steiff, it was given to a Chad Valley employee.  Where the Old Bear is today, I don't know, but until recently I believe he was still living with the same family.

Merrythought certainly made a wide range of coloured Teddy Bears for example, in 1930, they made a blue teddy.  Also around 1930, the Chiltern company produced a pink bear.  Don't forget too, all the magnificent colours that Merrythought have produced their Cheeky Teddy Bears in.  Practically every colour you can think of, even rainbow coloured Cheeky Bears have been produced and guess what, everyone loves them now.

If you should find an old coloured Teddy Bear today, you will probably find that his colour has faded quite dramatically, infact, you may not even notice at first glance that he was a coloured Teddy Bear.  Often the front of an Old Teddy Bear is more faded that his back, due in most instances to his back being kept away from direct sunlight, as he has probably spent many years of his Teddy Bear life either sitting in a chair or on a bed.  However, if you look very closely into his jointing area, you should see his original true colour.

I have to admit I love coloured Teddy Bears, especially from the past, but it really is down to personal choice.

Vintage old Deans Childsplay Toy Panda teddy bear with label 1957 1961 19 US $23.61

Carters Baby PINK Teddy Bear Security Blanket Lovey You Are My Sunshine US $9.99

RARE STEIFF GODINGER CRYSTAL TEDDY BEAR ISSUED PRE 1990 US $86.64

Gund Teddy Bear Valentine Gift with Red Box Bow Lid 18 Adorable Shiny Brown New US $34.99

Paul Cardew 2000 Teddy Bear Teapot Ted Tea Designed in England Cupcakes US $24.99

PATRIOTIC VERMONT TEDDY BEAR COMPANY Rare Red White Blue Bear US $59.95

Unique SUPER FINE 100 Baby ALPACA Fur Stuffed NEW Artist Teddy Bear US $32.99

GIRLS TEDDY BEAR MITTEN GLOVES BROWN PINK CHILDS MITTEN GLOVES NEW £850 US $1.56

Beautiful Teddy Bear and Rabbits Patchwork Girls Dress 70 cm long 3 6 years US $2.36

Antique beautiful Teddy bear made in argentina 1930s US $120.00

baby boy long sleeve teddy bear duck rattle 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $2.99

2008 Steiff Club Bear 420955 12inch Golden Mohair Teddy NEW W cert Bag 21 of ed US $159.00

15 Plush SNUGGLE Fabric Softnet RUSS Teddy Bear w Tags 1986 US $29.95

baby boy baby gap long sleeve teddy bear 1 pc outfit clothes 0 3 MONTHS US $3.99

HERMANN TEDDY ORIGINAL LE 30CMS 40th ANNIVERSARY BEAR BLACK US $30.72

0 3 Carters White with Hearts Teddy Bear Outfit US $5.50

Antique Teddy Bear Stuffed Toy Vintage Retro Mid Century Modern Stitched US $49.00

Womans Teddy Bear Slippers Sz 85 95 US $49.79

TY TEDDY BEAR WITH PATRIOTIC SWEATER 12 Plush STUFFED ANIMAL Toy US $15.50

Russ Bears from the Past WHITE TEDDY BEAR Plush Toy NEW US $17.50

Question by Autumn: I have a nice teddy bear collection to find homes for?
They're all in brand new, mint condition and belonged to my sister, who collected, among other things, teddy bears. There are lots of Brass Button Bears and some Boyd's Bears In The Attic, Russ Bears From The Past, Ganz Cottage Collectibles, a few Ty, and 1 Avon 100 Yr. Anniversary Bear. I can't keep them all and the local police department says that they have more than enough bears. Any suggestions for what I could do?

Best answer:

Answer by Arq_angel
You might as well sell them on eBay and make some money while you're at it! Plus, you know that since people are willing to buy them, they'll have a good home for them

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