Memory Bears

Clothing can hold so many memories: the jumper they always wore, a favourite shirt, a soft fleece or another piece that still feels like them. I carefully transform these treasured garments into a handmade Memory Bear that you and your family can hold close for years to come.

I understand how precious and irreplaceable these items are. Being trusted with them is something I never take lightly. Every bear is made by me with patience, care and close attention to the details that matter.

Made around you

Before I begin, we will talk through your ideas, the clothing you would like me to use and any special features you would like included. Your Memory Bear can be made in your chosen size, using your loved one's clothing alongside carefully selected upcycled materials where needed.

Each bear is completely unique because it carries a story that belongs only to you.

Every Memory Bear includes

• A cuddle cushion filled with the remaining pieces of fabric, so as little as possible is wasted
• A resin heart keychain containing a small piece of the clothing
• A personal consultation before work begins

The result is a comforting keepsake made from something familiar, giving you a special way to remember, cuddle and keep a loved one close.

The commission process

Memory Bears are made by personal arrangement. Once you get in touch, we will have a conversation about your ideas, the garments you would like to use and the size and style you have in mind. Nothing begins until you are happy with the plan and all the details have been agreed.

1. Get in touch — Send a message to start the conversation. There is no pressure and no commitment at this stage.
2. Consultation — We discuss your garments, sizing, any special features and what you would like the finished bear to look and feel like.
3. Deposit and agreement — Once everything is agreed, a deposit is required to secure your place and confirm the commission. The remaining balance is due before your bear is dispatched or collected. Full payment details will be confirmed during the consultation.
4. Making — Your bear is carefully handmade. You will be kept informed of progress.
5. Delivery or collection — Your finished bear will be returned to you by agreed delivery or local collection, whichever suits you best.

What to send

The clothing you choose is entirely personal. Most customers send garments such as jumpers, shirts, fleeces, pyjamas or other soft fabrics that hold particular meaning. If you are unsure whether something will work, just ask — I am happy to advise before you commit anything.

Please send or bring clean, dry clothing. Where the chosen garments do not provide quite enough fabric for a full bear, I use carefully selected upcycled materials to complete it, so as little of your clothing as possible is set aside unused.

Sizing

Memory Bears are available in a range of sizes. The right size for you will depend on the garments you are using and your personal preference. We will discuss sizing during your consultation so you can choose what feels right.

Turnaround

Each bear is made individually and entirely by hand, so lead times vary depending on current demand and the complexity of your order. An estimated timeframe will be discussed and agreed with you at the consultation stage. Please get in touch to find out current availability.

Delivery and collection

Your finished Memory Bear can be returned to you by post or courier, or collected locally by arrangement. Delivery options and any associated costs will be confirmed during the consultation.

Caring for your Memory Bear

To keep your Memory Bear looking its best, please handle it with care. We recommend spot-cleaning only where possible, using a clean damp cloth on any small marks. Avoid machine washing or soaking, as this can affect the filling, shape and the resin heart keychain. Keep your bear away from direct sunlight for extended periods to protect the fabric. If you have any questions about caring for your specific bear, please get in touch and I will advise based on the fabrics used.

Suitability

Memory Bears are handmade keepsakes intended for display and comfort for adults and older children. They are not designed or tested as toys for young children and are not suitable for children under 36 months due to small parts, including the resin heart keychain. If you have any questions about suitability, please discuss this with me before ordering.

Talk to me about a Memory Bear

Memory Bears are made by personal arrangement rather than purchased directly through the website. Get in touch and we can talk through what you would like to create.