Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Wahoo!!

and Happy New Year! Here we are in mid January already, and the bear den is busy. Folks are planning now for special occassions and even next Christmas! This is great because I really hate to have to refuse folks when we get too close to the next holiday season. I would much prefer to get their bears done, safely in THEIR den and just waiting quietly for the gifting moment.
Got questions? call me at 1-888-229-7873

Monday, December 29, 2008

Holidays almost done....

Christmas is over
The people are getting fat
Time to start exercising
And all of that.....

Time to think about memory bears for family and friends. There was a lot of reminiscing when you all got together during the holidays. Some was about folks no longer with you, ones dear to the heart. Someone probably still has a favorite shirt, dress, jacket, blanket that belonged to them. Why not get some memory bears made for yourself and family? Check out my Bellybutton Bears site, especially the FAQ page and see if I can help.

Some points:
  • I can make a bear out of almost anything.
  • You can combine up to 22 different fabrics in the bear if you choose to.
  • You can have photos on the bear, on the vest, just ask.
  • If you have photos, but no clothing left, we can find an appropriate fabric and still make you a great memory bear.
  • Ornaments - you can order with a bear, or just order ornaments. Big group and can't do bears for all of them? Ornaments are the way to go, and you can have a photo on them too. Just ask me.
  • Gift certificates? yes!
  • Last but not least - stories [books]. There is the original Bellybutton Bear Legend, and now the first in an ongoing series of Bellybutton Bear stories - the Oregon Trail story.

Lots of options, and each bear is a hand crafted heirloom treasure, that fits your family.

Happy New Year!

Friday, December 26, 2008

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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, 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!

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

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.

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.