Nice video! I'm a long time sewer of 35 years making clothing, dolls/animals, hand bags and home decor and wanted to give you another tip. When sewing curves, especially tight curves, shorten the stitch length to fairly tiny stitches to add strength and help with control. Then use pinking sheers to carefully trim the seam being careful not to cut the stitches. This replaces the snipping the curves and gives a very smooth stuffed curve when you stuff your project. Also works great when doing scallops. It really makes a big difference. I have a similar pattern purchased years ago but was then suggesting using scrap chenille bed spread fabric. You couldn't use the pinking sheers very well on pile-type fabrics but works great on regular fabric. I also liked your newsboy hat video. Keep up the good work. Love your vintage sewing machine. It's the only way to go in my opinion.
Thank you Janice Rasnic for great advice. I had a singer for 10 yrs and now I plan on getting a new machine when they get back in stock. I don’t know what to get Bernette 35, Janome 725s, or Necchi Q132A
I am in an online sewing class and spent four hours trying to make this bear on my own, and got to the point where I was about to have a breakdown. I could not do it for the life of me. I repurchased fabric and plan to retry with this video tonight. I could cry from relief with the help of this video. I am a visual learner, so this is like a new world for me. Thank you times a million. You don't know how much stress you have saved me from.
I’ve made serval of these bears and still find it helpful to sew along with your step-by-step guidance. Great camera work, and you keep it short and to the point. Perfect.. Thanks!
I am absolutely delighted that I have come across this video. I bought a pattern from a Chinese website. But I was dismayed to discover there was no sewing instructions. The pattern looks almost identical to your one. Thanks for keeping it to the point. I have mentioned your channel in the review section of the pattern on the website I bought the pattern from. I hope you don't mind.
I am 71 years old and I've taken up the hobby of sewing. I'm very accomplished at all building concepts and I really like your video's. You do a very good job explaining the how's and just as important the whys. So it's off I go to sew a memory bear.
I have gifted the Veteran's Home with some of the Care Bears. Way to make old folks smile! Thank you for your tips. Patterns from plastic is brilliant. Using that for facemasks too!
Thank you for this amazing tutorial. I made my first one for a gift for my mom. I used a shirt of my dad’s as a memory. Was nervous as I didn’t have time to practice but I think it turned out pretty good. Thank you!
I’ve watched so many sewing tutorials from clothing, accessories to bears and everything in between and I have never seen such a pleasant and informational seamstress like this!
I’m so thankful and blessed I found you on you tube!! You take time off to spend time for you and your family. May God bless you and yours!!! I never could have made my memory bears without finding you, Whitney. You were a God send. I can not read patterns. I’ve made over twenty bears for my family. You are a great teacher!!! May God pour down his blessing on you and your family!! 🙌🏻
This is a great video! My son is fighting brain cancer and wanted me to make him a memory bear from the hospital gown he wore when he was diagnosed. I have the pattern cut but was nervous to begin. With this video I am confident I can do it. Thank you! 😊
Thank you for this - I am a beginner but made my first bear just prior to Xmas out of pretty Xmas fabrics. Then I helped my 11yr old to make one for herself as part of home ed :). My husband's family has just asked me to make one out of pap's old clothes so I am halfway through that (and back on this video to refresh my memory as I am really paranoid about getting this one wrong!). So happy you don't pin everything, my patience and I thank you greatly for that too!!!
Amazing tutorial! I just ordered my pattern and can't wait till it arrives. I was relieved to find this video because I'm just starting to learn how to sew, and I have a hard time reading patterns. I'm a visual learner, so I'm very grateful for people like you who upload videos explaining every step!
I struggled reading the pattern! Not clear at all! Definitely needed this video to see this bear. I made 10 bears for a friend. Much easier after watching this video!
This video is so well done. Informative and concise. No rambling. Making bears 3 & 4 for grandkids. I certainly wish I’d had this video for the first two.
I enjoyed the very well detailed instructions for this cute memory bear. I have just acquired my dad’s shirts. I was planning to make pillows for my siblings and the grandkids but this gear looks easy so I will try to make this bear. Thanks for the inspiration.
Thank you for being "not so perfect" so we can all relate to you better. I mean, that your seams aren't perfectly matched, who can actually do that anyway? ha ha Also thank you for speaking so clearly, and simply, so that we don't get bogged down with words. I truly love your videos and watch every single one that you post. Truly thank you!
This is a great idea, a dear friend passed yesterday and this has given me idea that I think someone really like, I'm kinda new to sewing but I'm sure I could manage this. Thank you and regards from Scotland.
Your tutorials are exceptional! You explain the steps so clearly and make everything easy to follow and understand. I've been sewing for 50 years, so I'm an old lady, but I've learned so many helpful hints from you. I had made several Memory Bears, but I recently was asked to make one from a MINK JACKET! I was absolutely terrified to take scissors to such an expensive item. Even though I'd made several bears over the years, I watched your videos before tackling this mink coat bear! I found your videos to be very helpful and calming! You gave me the courage go ahead. I didn't use the safety eyes and nose because the lady for whom I made this bear wanted me to use buttons she had provided for the eyes and a simple felt nose. It turned out great! So, thank you, Whitney! I wish I could show you a picture, but I don't know how to attach one to my comment. Thank you for all you've taught me! You are talented and delightful! Deb Anderson
I'm so glad my videos helped give you the confidence you needed! The bear sounds beautiful! If you have a facebook account you can share a picture on my page, I would love to see it!
This video is amazing! I’m very grateful for your generosity with your time to show how this bear is made. I was able to make a few memory bears with my grandparents clothes. Thank you so much!
Thank you for your videos. I am using Simplicity 9894 and McCalls 5125 that I have had since 1990. Your videos are helping me to alter the patterns so that I won't need to use buttons or plastic joints to attach the arms and legs in the future as shown in these patterns. Thank you so much for continuing to offer your videos TH-cam.
Great video! I love how well you explain and show the steps. Your voice is gentle, yet not boring, and easy to listen to and understand. The background music is soft enough to not be distracting but has a nice soothing touch. Well done! I am about to make some bears from my dad's clothing. He passed away from cancer and I am making bears for all my sisters, nieces, and nephews. I decided to watch a video to see if there would be any helpful tips and I am glad I found yours. I tried another video and two minutes in I stopped it, it was nowhere near as good as yours. So thank you again!
Absolutely fantastic tutorials, I’ve started making memory bears from my son’s clothes, he died over two years ago and I find it comforting and so lovely to hug my bears from his clothes
I found this tutorial so helpful...I have never made a bear before and have now done 5. I tacked the head on to allow me to remove the clips. Thank you so much....
Thank you for your video, I am a visual learner and found it easy to put together after watching your video. I have made 2 so far, the first one went to my new grandson. I want to keep making them for the Safe Place in our city to give to the kids. Thank you again.
Finally! I found what I want to do with my dad's shirts. He passed in January and I want to make something special for my family. I found the pattern at walmart (IA), made a practice bear and it was so cool to see the finished product. THANK YOU for the videos on picking the right pattern, setting the eyes and nose and making the bear. I am a quilter, not a sewer but I'm sharpening my skills, thanks to you!
Thank you for the great video . I’m considered the crafty one of the family but I feel this may be above my capabilities - even with your wonderful tips . I love this idea , I have several of my Late Sons clothing , I would like to do this for our surviving children .. I agree , I love the 9 piece pattern - it does add the great deminsion you mentioned - I agree , the face is adorable with the eyes , nose and mouth you’ve selected .. I would consider this a “high end “ bear compared the the others I have seen .. thanks again for sharing - I will try to find seamstress in my area to tackle this for me .. I’m inspired ..
Life saver ! Currently making a bear from my grandmothers blazer. I will gift it to my aunt as a surprise. Now I just hope she has more of my grandmas clothing to make myself one:)
This is so cute! I love seeing multiple prints of fabric used in the same piece. And, this in particular is such a great way to "let go" of giant boxes of old clothes while still holding on to a piece. ^-^
Amazing. I made memory Bears for my daughters and putted along with the first half and then found your video and flew through the rest. You explain everything so perfectly. Thank you. ❤
Thank you SOOOOO much for posting this series!!! I’m not an advanced sewer but slightly past a novice and I was able to follow your tutorials on how to put together all the pattern pieces, put the eyes and nose and how to do a ladder stitch wonderfully. Don’t ever stop making videos, your videos are easy to follow-you are AMAZING!
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Your tutorial was exactly what I needed. You left nothing out. I don’t think I could have done it without your excellent instruction.
I just made two of these today for a neighbor, but I only had the pattern pieces, not the instructions! This video was such a lifesaver! I was so relieved to see that it had all the same shaped pieces, and the video was amazing for seeing what to do. THANK YOU!
I found this tutorial video extremely helpful. I could not locate the pattern she used by Simplicity and used Simplicity 8155. I could not have succeeded in making my first memory bear without this tutorial and the other ones on putting pattern on thin plastic, attaching the safety eyes, and the ladder stitch. My pattern directions were not very clear, at least to me. I was very happy to read in a comment that the pattern I really wanted to use was now offered by McCalls at Walmart. I immediately went to my local Walmart and did find the pattern that used to be Simplicity A2115. It is now sold as McCalls L9547. My Walmart had only one pattern but I was thrilled to find it. I also needed to find some thin plastic to transfer my pattern to. I could not find any clear-cutting plastic boards at my dollar stores. I wondered where else I might find something suitable. I had success at my Hobby Lobby store. They sell a clear plastic template for quilters. I found it in the sewing notions. Mine was 24” by 18 “ and cost $3.39 but I had a 40% off coupon. I am now ready to start working on my second bear once I trace the pattern. Thanks so much for these wonderful ideas.
Great idea with the plastic , especially if you want to make a few....TFS these ideas. I’ve made bears for my kids before .. called celebration bears for birthdays. But I love to make one in memory of my dad, who left us last year. 💜🙏🤗👍🏻
makiing my first one with the McCall pattern from Walmart, same bear. Thank you, I was stuck in panic mode trying to read McCall pattern instructions, I always purchase Simplicity patterns they are so much easier to understand. I looked on You Tube for help and here you are. Thank you, I'm almost finished with it, thanks to your outstanding video. You have a new fan and subscriber.
Thank you so much for this tutorial! I made 8 bears out of my Dad's clothes for all his grandkids. The written directions were horrible and I never could have done it without the video. I wish I could post a photo. Thanks so much!
Whitney I couldn’t have done this pattern without this wonderful video. The pattern was bought on Etsy so was just a copy and not great so this was wonderful to follow along. I was so pleased I’ve sighed up to your Patreon page. Thanks again for all the tips xx ❤
Adorable! My niece has made this bear several times using shirts from a loved one, just wonderful. I wondered how they went together, thank your for this video.
Just made my first bear (I'm a beginner it was a practice for a very important memory bear) I am so happy with it and watching your wonderful step by step video alongside I have learnt so very much and enjoyed every minute. Thank you so very much Whitney xx
I love this tutorial! I will look forward to your video on best tips for memory bears. Your directions are perfectly clear and straight forward. I’ve sewn a lot over the past few years and feel like I’m wrestling with curvy seams like the bears snout. You make it look easy!
Love this size. About 20 years ago, I sewed a bear nearly identical, but it was the size of a Beanie Baby bear ... boy was that a chore, lol. Going to give this a try with the larger bear, I think Thank you for sharing ❤️
Not sure why...but I love all of your videos. Maybe it's because you don't mucking around with too many confusing words, or stutter try to think of words to add in or maybe it's your hands aren't flying in every direction, which honestly is off-putting...or maybe it's because you are a natural. Thank you for doing the videos, I'm a sewer who needed sewing lessons as I aged but I failed sewing in school. I love to sew and I'm impressed with your memory bears. You have given me an idea for an upcoming family birthday. Thanks again and Wednesday are looking ore interesting to me now!😁👍🏼
I'm so glad you like it! Have you checked out my other memory bear tutorials? I share more tips and tricks in those videos. Here's the playlist - Memory Bear How tos from Whitney Sews: th-cam.com/play/PL6bNa81aVS4QfMk_L30ONPC9N-PoK_W3D.html
Thank you, you just helped me make my first memory bear for my first grandchild from shirts that were her great grandma’s. I couldn’t have done it without you!
When I finally find a pattern I will for sure be using your brilliant tutorial. I am a visual learner and you make it so easy to understand. Thank you. I have to make two ASAP as I won’t be seeing my grandsons for ages and I want them to remember me.
I love your tutorials. So easy to follow. Ive now made around 60 memory bears and 8 rabbits. I used a 9 piece pattern from pinterest. I will post some photos on your page. Keep up the good work.
you made this look so ez, which I'm sure its more difficult then it looks, you can tell you've made a few! i am going to try and make a few as I have some little nieces that would love to cuddle with these little creatures. thanks again happy sewing
I bought this pattern before I found your channel. I just want to thank you for helping me make my bear a whole lot easier. My bear came out so cute. Now have to make 2 more for my boys. Love your channel. Very simple to follow. God bless you.
Hi from Brunswick Ga. I have the opportunity to make 4 maybe more memory bears for my daughter n law. Her grandpa passed away. I do a lot of craft sewing but I have never made a bear. I purchased simplicity pattern 8115. I then followed the tips in this video. First tip making the clear plastic template (a great tip). I also used interfacing with my fabric I then made a practice bear. He came out perfect. With my practice bear I used a pice of fabric. My second practice bear I will be using a shirt I purchased from goodwill. I just want to make sure I have practice cutting my bear parts from a shirt. I am practicing with a shirt so that I do not make any mistakes when I make this precious bear from grandpas shirt. Thanks much
Hi I've just made my first memory bear following your video which was brilliant it was rewinded many times but I think I've got it now 😊 I'll still use it with my next bear to check I'm doing it right Thanks a lot x
Thank you for doing this video! I have finally been able to start working on memory bears using my grandmother's clothing and I have to make 30 of them for family members. This video is a life saver as I was getting confused looking at the directions. Thanks for being clear and concise!
Awesome.. I went to Walmart to look for the pattern.. wanted to make them for my kids and my niece and nephew using my mom clothes.. as gifts so they can have there grandma close to them.. they miss her so much..
Wow! Enjoyed watching you video with the step by step guide on hoe to sew a bear together. As I am a self taught teddy bear maker and I received back a comment from a friend of my aunt, stating that I had apparently made/sewed the bear together incorrectly. I will give it another go. Hoping these steps also apply to using the faux fur for the teddy bears. Once again a big thank you for your guidance in sewing a bear together.
I find that sewing a line of stitching a scant quarter inch along the edges of the fabric and clipping before sewing helps matching the edges when sewing curved areas that don't match the curve on other pieces. I help keep the 1/4 inch seam laying in a straighter line and better matching of the edges.
Thank you Whitney a very close friend of mine passed away and after watching your video probably 50 times i made 7 from him shirts. They turned our great. I do sometimes have problems with the back and fronts being off. Not sure whst i am doing wrong and i am not satisfied with my ladder stitch but they did turm out great and everone loved them.
WOW ! I am a total newbie to sewing and been wantingvto try to make a memory bearbout of my now deceased ex husband . He passed a way unexpectedly a year ago in december. Since financially i can not afford to have them made by someone i would like to trybto make them myself ( i need 5 memory bears) Anyways wow u made it look so easy. Goingvto try to get the pattern at walmart and trying to make one out of old sheets and see what happens. Im normally intimidated by youtube videos. But for some reason you made it look easy and the way you explained everything it didnt feel that intimidating. 😂 Thanks for sharing and i subscribed to your channel. Cant wait to see new creations in your channel.
Best of luck with your bears! If you aren't able to find the pattern at Wal-Mart here is a link to the reprinted pattern. It's just a couple of dollars more and comes in two sizes now. simplicity.com/simplicity/c5461
@@Whitney_Sews the best tutorial! I completed 2 during the first run through on your video. Having no written instructions, not a fancy machine and beginner level sewing; I feel accomplished. Going to do the other 2, thank you so much for making this happen!
It was frustrating to turn the bear right side out to baste the arms on and then turn it wrong side out again to attach the head and then turn it right side out again to stuff. Instead sew partial side seams, perhaps a quarter to a third of the way down from the neck and flip the front and back, back and forth, to attach the arms and head. This also makes the head easier to position as you can better see where it needs to go. Then finish sewing the side seams and turn right side out. It took me my first three bears to figure that out. I sewed my second bear's head on crooked, tch. And, Whitney, I think you have the best bear tutorial(s).
I agree that it's annoying to flip back and forth. I no longer turn the body to the right side to attach the arms, instead I put the inside the neck opening and baste all with it still inside out. I didn't do that in the video though because it would be incredibly hard to show what is being done. But that's what is great about tutorials. I can share the process and everyone who uses it can use the parts that work for them and adapt what needs to be changed for them. Thanks for sharing how you figured out solutions to make it work best for you.
So so so helpful. About to do my first memory bear for my daughter with her late nanas clothes and you have actually made me believe I can actually do this! So informative and helpful. Oh, and absolutely love the bear, it's beautiful! Thank you so much xx
I opened my first 10 lb box of fiberfill tonight and couldn’t stop laughing as it “grew” out of its box. Ha!!! Great step-by-step, Whitney. Very pleased with my results thanks to your help. :)
Hi Whitney, thank you so much for making this video, the step by step is so clear. I made one to try before making the final one, it wasn't easy to attach the head, but im sure next time will be better. Thank you again 🥰❤️
Thank you so much for this, first time using a pattern and both memory bears look superb. Couldn't have done it without you. Recipient's both very happy to have a lovely reminder of their mum which they can cwtch. ( sorry a Welsh word for cuddle) I used items of clothing along with the family tartan belonging to her.
Nice video! I'm a long time sewer of 35 years making clothing, dolls/animals, hand bags and home decor and wanted to give you another tip. When sewing curves, especially tight curves, shorten the stitch length to fairly tiny stitches to add strength and help with control. Then use pinking sheers to carefully trim the seam being careful not to cut the stitches. This replaces the snipping the curves and gives a very smooth stuffed curve when you stuff your project. Also works great when doing scallops. It really makes a big difference. I have a similar pattern purchased years ago but was then suggesting using scrap chenille bed spread fabric. You couldn't use the pinking sheers very well on pile-type fabrics but works great on regular fabric. I also liked your newsboy hat video. Keep up the good work. Love your vintage sewing machine. It's the only way to go in my opinion.
That is great idea, thanks...
Hi Kim I have been to Michaels, JoAnn Fabrics , Hobby Lobby and Walmart, here in .Ct. do you have any idea where I can get this pattern
Thank you Janice Rasnic for great advice. I had a singer for 10 yrs and now I plan on getting a new machine when they get back in stock. I don’t know what to get Bernette 35, Janome 725s, or
Necchi Q132A
Thank you for your advice
@@karencastiglione9263 etsy has someone selling a download for $5
I am in an online sewing class and spent four hours trying to make this bear on my own, and got to the point where I was about to have a breakdown. I could not do it for the life of me. I repurchased fabric and plan to retry with this video tonight. I could cry from relief with the help of this video. I am a visual learner, so this is like a new world for me. Thank you times a million. You don't know how much stress you have saved me from.
Thank you so much . I'm making 31 for Christmas this year with my parents clothes.
I’ve made serval of these bears and still find it helpful to sew along with your step-by-step guidance. Great camera work, and you keep it short and to the point. Perfect.. Thanks!
I am absolutely delighted that I have come across this video. I bought a pattern from a Chinese website. But I was dismayed to discover there was no sewing instructions. The pattern looks almost identical to your one. Thanks for keeping it to the point.
I have mentioned your channel in the review section of the pattern on the website I bought the pattern from.
I hope you don't mind.
Thank you so much, very clear instructions so much so that I've ordered the pattern and made one myself
I've just made my first memory bear and read my first pattern, thank you so much for the videos, I couldn't have made one without you x
That's so wonderful! Great job on your first pattern; I'm glad my video helped! :)
I am 71 years old and I've taken up the hobby of sewing. I'm very accomplished at all building concepts and I really like your video's. You do a very good job explaining the how's and just as important the whys. So it's off I go to sew a memory bear.
I have gifted the Veteran's Home with some of the Care Bears. Way to make old folks smile! Thank you for your tips. Patterns from plastic is brilliant. Using that for facemasks too!
Thank you for this amazing tutorial. I made my first one for a gift for my mom. I used a shirt of my dad’s as a memory. Was nervous as I didn’t have time to practice but I think it turned out pretty good. Thank you!
I’ve watched so many sewing tutorials from clothing, accessories to bears and everything in between and I have never seen such a pleasant and informational seamstress like this!
Aww thank you!
I’m so thankful and blessed I found you on you tube!! You take time off to spend time for you and your family. May God bless you and yours!!! I never could have made my memory bears without finding you, Whitney. You were a God send. I can not read patterns. I’ve made over twenty bears for my family. You are a great teacher!!! May God pour down his blessing on you and your family!! 🙌🏻
This is a great video! My son is fighting brain cancer and wanted me to make him a memory bear from the hospital gown he wore when he was diagnosed. I have the pattern cut but was nervous to begin. With this video I am confident I can do it. Thank you! 😊
I'm so glad my video helped give you the confidence you needed! All the best to your son as he is fighting cancer
Thank you for this - I am a beginner but made my first bear just prior to Xmas out of pretty Xmas fabrics. Then I helped my 11yr old to make one for herself as part of home ed :). My husband's family has just asked me to make one out of pap's old clothes so I am halfway through that (and back on this video to refresh my memory as I am really paranoid about getting this one wrong!). So happy you don't pin everything, my patience and I thank you greatly for that too!!!
Amazing tutorial! I just ordered my pattern and can't wait till it arrives. I was relieved to find this video because I'm just starting to learn how to sew, and I have a hard time reading patterns. I'm a visual learner, so I'm very grateful for people like you who upload videos explaining every step!
Where did you find a copy of the pattern?
This was so helpful!
I’m currently making a bear for a friend. Great to get visualisation that you just don’t get from reading a pattern!
Glad it was helpful!
I struggled reading the pattern! Not clear at all! Definitely needed this video to see this bear. I made 10 bears for a friend. Much easier after watching this video!
This video is so well done. Informative and concise. No rambling. Making bears 3 & 4 for grandkids. I certainly wish I’d had this video for the first two.
I enjoyed the very well detailed instructions for this cute memory bear. I have just acquired my dad’s shirts. I was planning to make pillows for my siblings and the grandkids but this gear looks easy so I will try to make this bear. Thanks for the inspiration.
Thank you for being "not so perfect" so we can all relate to you better. I mean, that your seams aren't perfectly matched, who can actually do that anyway? ha ha Also thank you for speaking so clearly, and simply, so that we don't get bogged down with words. I truly love your videos and watch every single one that you post. Truly thank you!
This is a great idea, a dear friend passed yesterday and this has given me idea that I think someone really like, I'm kinda new to sewing but I'm sure I could manage this. Thank you and regards from Scotland.
Your tutorials are exceptional! You explain the steps so clearly and make everything easy to follow and understand. I've been sewing for 50 years, so I'm an old lady, but I've learned so many helpful hints from you. I had made several Memory Bears, but I recently was asked to make one from a MINK JACKET! I was absolutely terrified to take scissors to such an expensive item. Even though I'd made several bears over the years, I watched your videos before tackling this mink coat bear! I found your videos to be very helpful and calming! You gave me the courage go ahead. I didn't use the safety eyes and nose because the lady for whom I made this bear wanted me to use buttons she had provided for the eyes and a simple felt nose. It turned out great! So, thank you, Whitney! I wish I could show you a picture, but I don't know how to attach one to my comment. Thank you for all you've taught me! You are talented and delightful! Deb Anderson
I'm so glad my videos helped give you the confidence you needed! The bear sounds beautiful! If you have a facebook account you can share a picture on my page, I would love to see it!
Did you post a picture of the mink bear that you made?
This video is amazing! I’m very grateful for your generosity with your time
to show how this bear is made. I was able to make a few memory bears with my grandparents clothes. Thank you so much!
Thank you for your videos. I am using Simplicity 9894 and McCalls 5125 that I have had since 1990. Your videos are helping me to alter the patterns so that I won't need to use buttons or plastic joints to attach the arms and legs in the future as shown in these patterns. Thank you so much for continuing to offer your videos TH-cam.
Great video! I love how well you explain and show the steps. Your voice is gentle, yet not boring, and easy to listen to and understand. The background music is soft enough to not be distracting but has a nice soothing touch. Well done! I am about to make some bears from my dad's clothing. He passed away from cancer and I am making bears for all my sisters, nieces, and nephews. I decided to watch a video to see if there would be any helpful tips and I am glad I found yours. I tried another video and two minutes in I stopped it, it was nowhere near as good as yours. So thank you again!
Thank you for leaving such a kind comment! I'm so glad you came across my videos. Best of luck on all of your bears!
Thanks to your tutorial I was able to sew my first bear the right way first attempt! Sincerely appreciate your time.
Absolutely fantastic tutorials, I’ve started making memory bears from my son’s clothes, he died over two years ago and I find it comforting and so lovely to hug my bears from his clothes
As a fellow loss mom, I couldn't see this and not comment. I am so sorry for your loss and hope you find sewing is a distraction and a small comfort.
Thank you ! I made my first one and your video was a HUGE help.. not sure I could have done it without you !
I found this tutorial so helpful...I have never made a bear before and have now done 5. I tacked the head on to allow me to remove the clips. Thank you so much....
Thank you for your video, I am a visual learner and found it easy to put together after watching your video. I have made 2 so far, the first one went to my new grandson. I want to keep making them for the Safe Place in our city to give to the kids. Thank you again.
Finally! I found what I want to do with my dad's shirts. He passed in January and I want to make something special for my family. I found the pattern at walmart (IA), made a practice bear and it was so cool to see the finished product. THANK YOU for the videos on picking the right pattern, setting the eyes and nose and making the bear. I am a quilter, not a sewer but I'm sharpening my skills, thanks to you!
That's so wonderful! I'm glad my videos were helpful to you! I would love to see a pic of your precious bear :)
nos sure how to get the picture to you
If you're on facebook you can send it to my Whitney Sews page - facebook.com/whitneysews
Thank you for the great video . I’m considered the crafty one of the family but I feel this may be above my capabilities - even with your wonderful tips . I love this idea , I have several of my Late Sons clothing , I would like to do this for our surviving children .. I agree , I love the 9 piece pattern - it does add the great deminsion you mentioned - I agree , the face is adorable with the eyes , nose and mouth you’ve selected .. I would consider this a “high end “ bear compared the the others I have seen .. thanks again for sharing - I will try to find seamstress in my area to tackle this for me .. I’m inspired ..
Life saver ! Currently making a bear from my grandmothers blazer. I will gift it to my aunt as a surprise. Now I just hope she has more of my grandmas clothing to make myself one:)
This is so cute! I love seeing multiple prints of fabric used in the same piece. And, this in particular is such a great way to "let go" of giant boxes of old clothes while still holding on to a piece. ^-^
Thanks! I love making these bears so much and each one turns out different but so cute!
Amazing. I made memory Bears for my daughters and putted along with the first half and then found your video and flew through the rest. You explain everything so perfectly. Thank you. ❤
I'm so glad it was helpful!
Thank you SOOOOO much for posting this series!!! I’m not an advanced sewer but slightly past a novice and I was able to follow your tutorials on how to put together all the pattern pieces, put the eyes and nose and how to do a ladder stitch wonderfully. Don’t ever stop making videos, your videos are easy to follow-you are AMAZING!
Girl, you are a natural born teacher!
What a beautiful bear and it doesn’t look that hard to make either, thank you!
Finally ready to do this project, and while watching I exclaimed, "Holy ****! This woman is a ******* genius!" Excited.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Your tutorial was exactly what I needed. You left nothing out. I don’t think I could have done it without your excellent instruction.
Grateful for this tutorial (just lost my Mom & I have a pattern & the fabric). Your tutorial will make it so much less daunting ❤❤❤❤❤🙏💜💜😍🌞
I just made two of these today for a neighbor, but I only had the pattern pieces, not the instructions! This video was such a lifesaver! I was so relieved to see that it had all the same shaped pieces, and the video was amazing for seeing what to do. THANK YOU!
Oh wow! Not having the instructions would be very intimidating. I'm so glad my video was helpful for you!
I found this tutorial video extremely helpful. I could not locate the pattern she used by Simplicity and used Simplicity 8155. I could not have succeeded in making my first memory bear without this tutorial and the other ones on putting pattern on thin plastic, attaching the safety eyes, and the ladder stitch. My pattern directions were not very clear, at least to me.
I was very happy to read in a comment that the pattern I really wanted to use was now offered by McCalls at Walmart. I immediately went to my local Walmart and did find the pattern that used to be Simplicity A2115.
It is now sold as McCalls L9547. My Walmart had only one pattern but I was thrilled to find it.
I also needed to find some thin plastic to transfer my pattern to. I could not find any clear-cutting plastic boards at my dollar stores. I wondered where else I might find something suitable.
I had success at my Hobby Lobby store. They sell a clear plastic template for quilters. I found it in the sewing notions. Mine was 24” by 18 “ and cost $3.39 but I had a 40% off coupon.
I am now ready to start working on my second bear once I trace the pattern.
Thanks so much for these wonderful ideas.
I'm so glad the video was helpful and that you were able to find the new version of the pattern!
You make it look so easy! I much prefer to watch a tutorial than read through patterns. Thank You. Thank You. Anne-Marie England
Glad you liked the video! It's my goal with every tutorial to try to make it easy to understand and follow for every sewer.
Great idea with the plastic , especially if you want to make a few....TFS these ideas. I’ve made bears for my kids before .. called celebration bears for birthdays. But I love to make one in memory of my dad, who left us last year. 💜🙏🤗👍🏻
makiing my first one with the McCall pattern from Walmart, same bear. Thank you, I was stuck in panic mode trying to read McCall pattern instructions, I always purchase Simplicity patterns they are so much easier to understand. I looked on You Tube for help and here you are. Thank you, I'm almost finished with it, thanks to your outstanding video. You have a new fan and subscriber.
I am so glad the video was helpful!
Hi Amy many moons ago you sourced the first pattern for me. Well I’ve treasured it and finally making my first bear. So excited
I actually found this pattern yesterday after looking everywhere at Walmart!
Thank you so much for this tutorial! I made 8 bears out of my Dad's clothes for all his grandkids. The written directions were horrible and I never could have done it without the video. I wish I could post a photo. Thanks so much!
I'm so glad my video was helpful! You can share pics with me on my Facebook page or Instagram. Both are linked in the video's description box.
Thank you for this. Straight to the point.
Whitney I couldn’t have done this pattern without this wonderful video. The pattern was bought on Etsy so was just a copy and not great so this was wonderful to follow along. I was so pleased I’ve sighed up to your Patreon page. Thanks again for all the tips xx ❤
I went to Walmart yesterday and found this pattern. Can’t wait to start this project. Thanks for the video.
Wonderful! Let me know how it turns out :)
Thank you! I have been able to make many bears because of your video.
Adorable! My niece has made this bear several times using shirts from a loved one, just wonderful. I wondered how they went together, thank your for this video.
Thanks! My sister loaned me the pattern and half the instructions were missing so it was great to find this!
Just made my first bear (I'm a beginner it was a practice for a very important memory bear) I am so happy with it and watching your wonderful step by step video alongside I have learnt so very much and enjoyed every minute. Thank you so very much Whitney xx
I love this tutorial! I will look forward to your video on best tips for memory bears. Your directions are perfectly clear and straight forward.
I’ve sewn a lot over the past few years and feel like I’m wrestling with curvy seams like the bears snout.
You make it look easy!
Here's the memory bear tips video :) th-cam.com/video/JCG5ZMF72qE/w-d-xo.html
Is there a way you could show how to sew the vest? I'm one of those who has to see how it needs to be done. Thank you.
Love this size.
About 20 years ago, I sewed a bear nearly identical, but it was the size of a Beanie Baby bear ... boy was that a chore, lol.
Going to give this a try with the larger bear, I think
Thank you for sharing ❤️
You did a fantastic job doing this video. I have a new granddaughter and I know she would love this bear. Thank you for the video.
Very clear instructions for a very novice sewer 👍
Not sure why...but I love all of your videos. Maybe it's because you don't mucking around with too many confusing words, or stutter try to think of words to add in or maybe it's your hands aren't flying in every direction, which honestly is off-putting...or maybe it's because you are a natural. Thank you for doing the videos, I'm a sewer who needed sewing lessons as I aged but I failed sewing in school. I love to sew and I'm impressed with your memory bears. You have given me an idea for an upcoming family birthday. Thanks again and Wednesday are looking ore interesting to me now!😁👍🏼
Thank you for the sweet comment! I'm glad you like my videos. I script them ahead of time to make sure I don't ramble too much ;)
Wow Whitney, that is the best tutorial, you explain all the little things that aren't said in the pattern instructions. Thank you!
I'm so glad you like it! Have you checked out my other memory bear tutorials? I share more tips and tricks in those videos. Here's the playlist - Memory Bear How tos from Whitney Sews: th-cam.com/play/PL6bNa81aVS4QfMk_L30ONPC9N-PoK_W3D.html
thank you so much! i am a visual learner and this has been so helpful!! very appreciative! i have made 3 bears now!!
Thank you, you just helped me make my first memory bear for my first grandchild from shirts that were her great grandma’s. I couldn’t have done it without you!
When I finally find a pattern I will for sure be using your brilliant tutorial. I am a visual learner and you make it so easy to understand. Thank you.
I have to make two ASAP as I won’t be seeing my grandsons for ages and I want them to remember me.
Tracy Cook Hope you're able to find a pattern soon!
Tracy - I have an extra one. Let me know if you can't find one.
Susan Leshinsky ,,,, do you still have one available.????
I love your tutorials. So easy to follow. Ive now made around 60 memory bears and 8 rabbits. I used a 9 piece pattern from pinterest. I will post some photos on your page. Keep up the good work.
This is my go to video for the bear! Thank you.
you made this look so ez, which I'm sure its more difficult then it looks, you can tell you've made a few! i am going to try and make a few as I have some little nieces that would love to cuddle with these little creatures. thanks again happy sewing
Once you've made one or two they really are pretty easy to whip up. I hope you give it a try and let me know how yours turn out :)
I bought this pattern before I found your channel. I just want to thank you for helping me make my bear a whole lot easier. My bear came out so cute. Now have to make 2 more for my boys. Love your channel. Very simple to follow. God bless you.
Hi from Brunswick Ga. I have the opportunity to make 4 maybe more memory bears for my daughter n law. Her grandpa passed away. I do a lot of craft sewing but I have never made a bear. I purchased simplicity pattern 8115. I then followed the tips in this video. First tip making the clear plastic template (a great tip). I also used interfacing with my fabric I then made a practice bear. He came out perfect. With my practice bear I used a pice of fabric. My second practice bear I will be using a shirt I purchased from goodwill. I just want to make sure I have practice cutting my bear parts from a shirt. I am practicing with a shirt so that I do not make any mistakes when I make this precious bear from grandpas shirt. Thanks much
I'm so happy the first bear went great! Can't wait to hear how the rest turn out :)
Hi I've just made my first memory bear following your video which was brilliant it was rewinded many times but I think I've got it now 😊 I'll still use it with my next bear to check I'm doing it right Thanks a lot x
I'm glad my video was helpful!
This is random but I have to say it .........LOVE YOUR EYE BROWS....it’s rare to find a girl who doesn’t draw them on these days
Nicely sewn. Not complicated like some patterns are. You did an excellent job explaining each step of the sewing process.
Thank you for a very informative and easy to follow video. I can’t wait to get started on my bears!
Thank you for doing this video! I have finally been able to start working on memory bears using my grandmother's clothing and I have to make 30 of them for family members. This video is a life saver as I was getting confused looking at the directions. Thanks for being clear and concise!
Wow, that is a lot of bears to make! Let me know how it goes!
I will!
Awesome.. I went to Walmart to look for the pattern.. wanted to make them for my kids and my niece and nephew using my mom clothes.. as gifts so they can have there grandma close to them.. they miss her so much..
I hope you're able to find a pattern!
Wow! Enjoyed watching you video with the step by step guide on hoe to sew a bear together. As I am a self taught teddy bear maker and I received back a comment from a friend of my aunt, stating that I had apparently made/sewed the bear together incorrectly. I will give it another go. Hoping these steps also apply to using the faux fur for the teddy bears. Once again a big thank you for your guidance in sewing a bear together.
I find that sewing a line of stitching a scant quarter inch along the edges of the fabric and clipping before sewing helps matching the edges when sewing curved areas that don't match the curve on other pieces. I help keep the 1/4 inch seam laying in a straighter line and better matching of the edges.
Thank you. I think I've made 4 now, and I still watch everything to be sure to get it right!
I made my first Bear and your video was so helpful. Thank you
Thank you Whitney - I had lost the instructions and was happy to find your step by step tutorial - Great job!
Thank you so much Whitney
I'm making one for my granddaughter
Thank you so much for your tutorial, I followed you rather than the pattern which was much easier, thanks for sharing 😊
I'm so glad my video was helpful!
I have this same pattern and I'm goin to make it for my grandgirl out of my mom's shirt ,,, Thanks for sharein 😁 🌻
awesome tutorial I just made my first memory bear and your video was a great help thanks again
Thank you Whitney a very close friend of mine passed away and after watching your video probably 50 times i made 7 from him shirts. They turned our great. I do sometimes have problems with the back and fronts being off. Not sure whst i am doing wrong and i am not satisfied with my ladder stitch but they did turm out great and everone loved them.
I'm so glad to hear that the video was helpful! Even if the bears aren't 100% perfect they are full of love ❤
WOW ! I am a total newbie to sewing and been wantingvto try to make a memory bearbout of my now deceased ex husband . He passed a way unexpectedly a year ago in december. Since financially i can not afford to have them made by someone i would like to trybto make them myself ( i need 5 memory bears) Anyways wow u made it look so easy. Goingvto try to get the pattern at walmart and trying to make one out of old sheets and see what happens. Im normally intimidated by youtube videos. But for some reason you made it look easy and the way you explained everything it didnt feel that intimidating. 😂
Thanks for sharing and i subscribed to your channel. Cant wait to see new creations in your channel.
Best of luck with your bears! If you aren't able to find the pattern at Wal-Mart here is a link to the reprinted pattern. It's just a couple of dollars more and comes in two sizes now. simplicity.com/simplicity/c5461
I watched this many times, now have all supplies and 4 bear bodies cut out; ready to finally make this!!
Awesome! Let me know how they turn out :)
@@Whitney_Sews the best tutorial! I completed 2 during the first run through on your video. Having no written instructions, not a fancy machine and beginner level sewing; I feel accomplished.
Going to do the other 2, thank you so much for making this happen!
I cannot thank you enough for this video! I attempted to make this pattern and failed miserably, then I saw this video and saw how easy you did it!
Making these for the grandkids. Was so happy to find the pattern at Wal-Mart today. They had only 3 left. I bought 2. Thanks for doing the Tutorial👍
I'm so glad you were able to find some patterns! Let me know how your bears turn out :)
It was frustrating to turn the bear right side out to baste the arms on and then turn it wrong side out again to attach the head and then turn it right side out again to stuff.
Instead sew partial side seams, perhaps a quarter to a third of the way down from the neck and flip the front and back, back and forth, to attach the arms and head. This also makes the head easier to position as you can better see where it needs to go. Then finish sewing the side seams and turn right side out.
It took me my first three bears to figure that out.
I sewed my second bear's head on crooked, tch.
And, Whitney, I think you have the best bear tutorial(s).
I agree that it's annoying to flip back and forth. I no longer turn the body to the right side to attach the arms, instead I put the inside the neck opening and baste all with it still inside out. I didn't do that in the video though because it would be incredibly hard to show what is being done. But that's what is great about tutorials. I can share the process and everyone who uses it can use the parts that work for them and adapt what needs to be changed for them. Thanks for sharing how you figured out solutions to make it work best for you.
Just bought this pattern at Walmart yesterday and I’m ready to give it a try!!
So so so helpful. About to do my first memory bear for my daughter with her late nanas clothes and you have actually made me believe I can actually do this! So informative and helpful. Oh, and absolutely love the bear, it's beautiful! Thank you so much xx
I opened my first 10 lb box of fiberfill tonight and couldn’t stop laughing as it “grew” out of its box. Ha!!! Great step-by-step, Whitney. Very pleased with my results thanks to your help. :)
It was the same for me when I opened my first box :) Then I had to basically sit on it to get it squished back down to store it
Hi Whitney, thank you so much for making this video, the step by step is so clear. I made one to try before making the final one, it wasn't easy to attach the head, but im sure next time will be better. Thank you again 🥰❤️
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you so much for this, first time using a pattern and both memory bears look superb. Couldn't have done it without you. Recipient's both very happy to have a lovely reminder of their mum which they can cwtch. ( sorry a Welsh word for cuddle) I used items of clothing along with the family tartan belonging to her.
your video is anxiety free and stress free thank u sm
I loved your tutorial. So easy to follow I just made my very first memory bear watching your videos.
Can you do simplicity r11761/69771 please 🙏
You are amazing I was having trouble reading my pattern and you made so much sense ❤ your work
Glad I could help!
Thank you, very helpful tutorial, as I know nout bout sowing and following you helped way more than the instructions