ABOUT
I have sewn all my life: clothing, costumes, dolls and doll clothes, dog coats, household items and animals. Several years ago, I made my first Memory Bears as a request from my daughter from a post on one of her Mom pages. It blossomed from there through word of mouth and social media. Hence, Memory Bears by Vivian was born. My sewing room is my happy place with large windows overlooking a
field and birds singing all day. I create each bear with the respect and honor for those who cherish the memories each bear represents. I have met some great people and heard wonderful stories through my bears. Truly my passion! THE BEARS
Each bear is unique, one of a kind, designed and sewn by me from fabric you supply. They sit 12-15 inches tall, depending upon the stretch and give of each fabric. A small heart shaped pillow is included with every bear. They are generously stuffed with polyester fiberfill. I use the highest quality threads and double stitch every seam for durability and strength. I use safety eyes and noses. If a fabric is thin, stretchy or easily frays, I will use a fusible backing. My bears are meant to be shelf-sitters and not necessarily play toys for the very young since they contain the small parts that could be choking hazards. I can machine embroider your message, names and/or dates on the small pillow and footpads. I will often use a coordinating fleece or flannel fabric that I provide for the ears and footpads depending on the fabric being used. MATERIAL
One adult size shirt is my rule of thumb. Small blouses and shirts or child size pieces will require two or more articles of clothing. I have used shirts, blouses, jackets and the lining, dresses, nightgowns, pajamas and robes, pants, sweaters, sweatshirts, blankets and even large scarves to create my bears. The possibilities are endless and the memories you want to preserve determine what fabric you supply to me. I will promptly answer any questions you may have on this page or via email ([email protected]) or Messenger and work with you to provide the most meaningful bears. I do request material be clean and in good repair. COST
I charge $100.00 for each bear which includes the heart pillow and embroidery. You are responsible for shipping costs. I will send you a photo and invoice of the completed bears with the shipping cost (UPS unless you request other). Payment by Venmo. I ship USA only. No returns for custom bears. HOW IT WORKS
Contact me via email ([email protected]) or through Messenger. I will give you my mailing address for sending the items you want made into a Memory Bear. I will answer any questions you may have and work with you for your specific requests. TIMELINE
Currently two weeks from when I receive your material, but so much depends upon my workload and how many bears you want. I will let you know my turnaround time when you order. IDEAS
*To honor and commemorate a deceased loved one
*To remember a special event or occasion.
*As a ‘Huggy Bear’ for those living far away, going to college or recuperating from an illness.