Guest Author - Susan Kramer

This is a fantastic book for making teddy bears that will probably bring back memories of the teddies from your childhood!

I love the variety of bears offered from the easiest to the more difficult jointed bodies.

There is even a teddy that can be completed in an hour or so. Do you have lots of young ones on your gift list? Then, this is the teddy for you!

The last pages of the book are patterns for all the teddies that you can xerox or trace to form your own thin cardboard templates. I agree with the suggestion to use the carton of cereal boxes to make your template patterns. It is easy to hold down in place while outlining on material and flexible enough not to crease easily.

The suggested materials to make teddies are available in fabric stores or from the list of suppliers in the index.

I also agree with the suggestion for hand sewers to use strong thread, such as button hole thread. I do the same in hand sewing doll bodies.

There is a very useful section at the front of the book called "Guide to Techniques" that shows with text and photos just how to cut out and sew, assemble your teddy, and make the finishing touches such as eyes and nose.

Bear templates included with full photo illustrations
1. Plush Bear
2. Tubby Bears
3. Lollipop Bears
4. Folk Bear
5. Clown Bear
6. Angel Bear
7. Grizzly Bear
8. Bean Bag Bear
9. Shaggy Bear
10. Charming Bear
11. Heirloom Bear

I have to admit from the point of uniqueness I like the Grizzly Bear the best. It is just adorable and one of the easier teddy bears to make.

I think once you begin making the teddy bears in The Teddy Bear Making Book, you will be forever hooked on making teddies for all the little girls and boys in your life.

Highest recommendation!

Details - 105 pages by David & Charles Publishers; 11.1 by 8.5 inches; ISBN: 0715314815

Available at Amazon.com
The Teddy Bear Making Book by Brian and Donna Gibbs

Review by Susan Kramer