It was a busy, busy fall with little time to write pieces for the web, update my website or any of that! Looking forward to a productive new year, here is our Christmas greeting:
We made it through the year
And a wonderful year it was
Making many new bears and friends
Who remain in memory because...
Every story and box in the door
Brought tears & memories within
Each to become an heirloom bear
To cherish & hold memories for kin.
Every memory is handled with love
From beginning to end, each bear
Is a job I do with heart
To help everyone show they care.
Thank you Bear Lovers one & all
For trusting me with your treasure
I wish you safe & happy holidays
& God's Blessings in full measure.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Denise & Bellybutton Bears
Friday, December 26, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
More Memory Bear bits......
A customer recently noted, when we spoke on the phone, that she was not aware that each bear gets a paper tag. Yes, they do. It is part of the package, so to speak, at Bellybutton Bears. If I have been sent a photo, I include it on the tag, and/or any words they may wish, to include dates, verses etc.
They also get a ribbon or something around the neck, in a complimentary color, and that is what the tag hangs on. It is made out of cardstock, and can be left on the bear or removed and put away.
Bears arms and legs are normally attached with heavy upholstery thread and buttons. This is an old style joint method used by many early doll makers. I use buttons from the garments you send, if there are any
and they are the right kind. If not, I have a few pounds of buttons to select from! Each bear also gets a bellybutton, even if it has something on it that hides the bellybutton. Eyes are made from buttons as well, and you may request the color you prefer.
I can add a photo or embroidery to a vest, chest or footpad. There is an extra charge if I add embroidery or photos to a bear, because it takes a bit extra time and effort. My sister does the embroidery for me.
Part of this may have been covered before - but things I take for granted with the bears are sometimes just totally new to someone else!
They also get a ribbon or something around the neck, in a complimentary color, and that is what the tag hangs on. It is made out of cardstock, and can be left on the bear or removed and put away.
Bears arms and legs are normally attached with heavy upholstery thread and buttons. This is an old style joint method used by many early doll makers. I use buttons from the garments you send, if there are any
and they are the right kind. If not, I have a few pounds of buttons to select from! Each bear also gets a bellybutton, even if it has something on it that hides the bellybutton. Eyes are made from buttons as well, and you may request the color you prefer.I can add a photo or embroidery to a vest, chest or footpad. There is an extra charge if I add embroidery or photos to a bear, because it takes a bit extra time and effort. My sister does the embroidery for me.
Part of this may have been covered before - but things I take for granted with the bears are sometimes just totally new to someone else!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Memory Bears for Christmas?
NOW is the time to plan your orders for Christmas gifts. May seem early but it really isn't. It takes time to craft a bear, hours in fact. Plus you want to get yours scheduled before your bear artist is backed up and has to say no.
Don't have clothing but really want a bear? Think about other items with personal connection. Linens; I've made several from blankets that came out very well. Fancy embroidered linens would make great bears as well. If you have nothing, but your person had hobbies or jobs, we may be able to find a fabric that 'speaks to you' of their interests in life. Add a photo of your person and it can still become a memory bear.
Enclosures: Inside of bears I have added photos, trinkets, ash packets. They are added to the stuffing, and sewn in.
Accessories: Bears have had neckties, necklaces, earrings, pins etc added. This is something you can add to your bear yourself, or send to be included in the crafting of the bear.
They might be something very personal for the recipient.
Anytime you have bear questions, just drop me a line - it doesn't commit you to anything and I'm happy to help. bellybuttonbears@charter.net
Don't have clothing but really want a bear? Think about other items with personal connection. Linens; I've made several from blankets that came out very well. Fancy embroidered linens would make great bears as well. If you have nothing, but your person had hobbies or jobs, we may be able to find a fabric that 'speaks to you' of their interests in life. Add a photo of your person and it can still become a memory bear.
Enclosures: Inside of bears I have added photos, trinkets, ash packets. They are added to the stuffing, and sewn in.
Accessories: Bears have had neckties, necklaces, earrings, pins etc added. This is something you can add to your bear yourself, or send to be included in the crafting of the bear.
They might be something very personal for the recipient.
Anytime you have bear questions, just drop me a line - it doesn't commit you to anything and I'm happy to help. bellybuttonbears@charter.net
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Can you put (blank) in a memory bear? What about....
Several questions have come up this summer, that I had not thought to put on my FAQ page.
Yes, I can add items to the stuffing in the bear; ie, packet of ashes, special beads, photos, music box. I don't put in zippers, just add the item when I stuff and stitch.
Yes, I can 'patchwork' your bear; ie, make it out of several different garments. NO problem and happy to do it.
Yes, I can make bears out of sweaters - if the knit is really loose, I'll stabilize with lining but most just need a little TLC and special stuffing.
Special color for the eyes? Absolutely, just let me know.
Jewelry or trinkets added to the bear? Sure, makes them special, so just send them along.
Need it sewn WITHOUT buttons? I can do that too.
Need a gift certificate for a friend? Yes, no problem!
Have another question not listed? Just ask!! Communication is not my middle name, but close! Truly, I want folks to ask their questions and take the time to choose just exactly what they want their bear made from. After all, these are MEMORY Teddy Bears, and should be special.
Yes, I can add items to the stuffing in the bear; ie, packet of ashes, special beads, photos, music box. I don't put in zippers, just add the item when I stuff and stitch.
Yes, I can 'patchwork' your bear; ie, make it out of several different garments. NO problem and happy to do it.
Yes, I can make bears out of sweaters - if the knit is really loose, I'll stabilize with lining but most just need a little TLC and special stuffing.
Special color for the eyes? Absolutely, just let me know.
Jewelry or trinkets added to the bear? Sure, makes them special, so just send them along.
Need it sewn WITHOUT buttons? I can do that too.
Need a gift certificate for a friend? Yes, no problem!
Have another question not listed? Just ask!! Communication is not my middle name, but close! Truly, I want folks to ask their questions and take the time to choose just exactly what they want their bear made from. After all, these are MEMORY Teddy Bears, and should be special.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Grrrrrrrunt, whoof, snort....
or however a bear sounds on a blog!! Complaining about the heat you see. Perhaps I should fill the kiddy pool and make like a polar bear!
Summer always does this to me, especially if I don't get moving fast enough in the morning while it is still cool.
Even tho bears are a priority around here, summer is also the time when we trim bushes and trees, weedeat and/or mow down the weeds and grasses that grow across our small acreage to lesson the fire danger, and fight with the drip system until it works 'just right' [you notice that hint of Goldilocks in there, right??]
Updating the website just a touch, clarifying that folks CAN purchase memory bear ornaments even if they do not purchase a Memory Bear - all these things take time, and soon summer will be gone again. If you have a Memory Bear question, or just want to chat, drop me a line at bellybuttonbears@charter.net.
YES, we offer Gift Certificates!! Just let me know.
Summer always does this to me, especially if I don't get moving fast enough in the morning while it is still cool.
Even tho bears are a priority around here, summer is also the time when we trim bushes and trees, weedeat and/or mow down the weeds and grasses that grow across our small acreage to lesson the fire danger, and fight with the drip system until it works 'just right' [you notice that hint of Goldilocks in there, right??]
Updating the website just a touch, clarifying that folks CAN purchase memory bear ornaments even if they do not purchase a Memory Bear - all these things take time, and soon summer will be gone again. If you have a Memory Bear question, or just want to chat, drop me a line at bellybuttonbears@charter.net.
YES, we offer Gift Certificates!! Just let me know.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Thank you Denise Richards!
From one Denise to another, thank you for sharing your memory bears on 'reality' TV. This has created an increased awareness of memory bears, more phone calls, more emails, more folks excited about having a bear made.
No, they were not Bellybutton Bears! Doesn't matter, we appreciate the renewed interest in bears, and the chance to help folks preserve their memories. One nice lady noted that I make bear ornaments as well. No, you do not have to order a complete bear to be able to get ornaments; you can order just ornaments. Any time. Don't wait until Christmas.
Again, thank you Denise Richards ~ your timing was great and we share your delight in memory bears.
God Bless,
Denise
No, they were not Bellybutton Bears! Doesn't matter, we appreciate the renewed interest in bears, and the chance to help folks preserve their memories. One nice lady noted that I make bear ornaments as well. No, you do not have to order a complete bear to be able to get ornaments; you can order just ornaments. Any time. Don't wait until Christmas.
Again, thank you Denise Richards ~ your timing was great and we share your delight in memory bears.
God Bless,
Denise
Monday, June 23, 2008
Busy in the Bear Den
I know, a while since I've growled out there, or snuffled around. Been too busy for anything!
The bears were keeping all my spare time occupied up until May, then it was the last full month of sschool with a huge field trip. All went very well, and we wrapped up at school last week. I stay a number of days after the kids and then the teachers leave. However, now I'm home for the summer [theoretically] and a good thing because I am so behind at home and have more bears hollering/growling for my attention!
Things like getting my home drip system active again, because summer seems to suddenly be here. Trimming bushes, dead wood out of trees, sorting my wood piles [some is for crafts, some to burn], and so on. Exploring at least one place for a future field trip. Visiting with family. Spending a bit of time with my Mom getting her drip system up and going again, and maybe a kink or two out of her new computer. Going to the coast with sister Linda whenever I can help out because her hubby is still planting like crazy and she can't do it alone. Just stuff to keep us busy!!!
At any rate, I'm here to help with bears whenever I can, just drop me an email. Ask any questions you have. bellybuttonbears@charter.net
The bears were keeping all my spare time occupied up until May, then it was the last full month of sschool with a huge field trip. All went very well, and we wrapped up at school last week. I stay a number of days after the kids and then the teachers leave. However, now I'm home for the summer [theoretically] and a good thing because I am so behind at home and have more bears hollering/growling for my attention!
Things like getting my home drip system active again, because summer seems to suddenly be here. Trimming bushes, dead wood out of trees, sorting my wood piles [some is for crafts, some to burn], and so on. Exploring at least one place for a future field trip. Visiting with family. Spending a bit of time with my Mom getting her drip system up and going again, and maybe a kink or two out of her new computer. Going to the coast with sister Linda whenever I can help out because her hubby is still planting like crazy and she can't do it alone. Just stuff to keep us busy!!!
At any rate, I'm here to help with bears whenever I can, just drop me an email. Ask any questions you have. bellybuttonbears@charter.net
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