Sally Winey Answers

April 10, 2002
Dear Sally, What type of eyes do you use for your bears? Kasey V.
Hi Kasey, I use only glass eyes from Germany.
These cost a more but they are one of the best.
Thanks for writing, Sally
October 24 , 2001
How do you create realistic facial expressions on the bears? Jennifer
I am not a realistic artist but I know that if you use soft sculpture methods you can develop a realistic look.
Sally

Hi Sally, I have a old bear that was a gift from my great-grandmother. It feels like a joint has broken loose where the right leg connects with the body. I don't know who made this bear nor it's value. I can't afford to send him off to a hospital for repair. Any suggestions on how I can fix this myself. Thanks, Cari
If you would send him to me with the return postage I will happily fix him for you. Sally

Hi Sally!
Having finally read your book(!), I got a clearer picture of how to sew on ears. (Just haven't tried it yet.) Now, about noses...HOW do you sew/embroider on first-rate noses?! Do you use size 3 or 5 pearl cotton? Or does it depend on the bear? Which do you find easier? Do you ever wax your floss before embroidering? Have you used nose templates? Or is it trial-by-error and practice, practice, practice?! Every Artist I talk to agrees noses are the hardest part - got some help? Hugs, Vicki Hartung
Hi Vicky, It was great to see you at the fair. What fun we had. I have done several types of noses and yes they are the hardest thing to master. They should be stuffed firmly and use #5 pearl cotton on smaller bears only separate the strands of #3 and put them back together again.. Make sure you use a needle that is easy for you to handle and will not get lost in the bear. Remember, no need to knot the threads. Try different material for different effects and fun. Sally

Sally... what is the hardest part of the bear to create? Thank you for making so many people smile over the years with your beautiful designs. I always look forward to seeing new items from Sally Winey. -Smiles Lisa
I think the face is the most important part. But once you make a few you get the hang of it and create your own style of bear.

Sally, I live in Alaska where it is common to have access to real animal fur, and real fur is used to make items that keep us warm and protected from the extreme cold temperatures. Common fur available is lynx, marten, wolf, otter, fox, bear and beaver. Have you ever made a Teddy out of any of these types of real animal fur? If so, how did it turn out and what did you do with it? Do you know of a good source on the internet where I could purchase bear making supplies such as joints, eyes, mohair, etc.? Eloise
Yes, I have made several and they turn out nicely. They are harder to make than a regular bear. You must line the inside of the bear with muslin to help with structure stability. Edinburg Imports is a good source in Thousand Oaks, California. http://www.edinburgh.com/

Dear Sally, What is the best type of thread to use? How strong should it be? Braden
You can use carpet thread or a very strong nylon. For the sewing machine use the normal thread and a size 16 needle. Sally

July 27, 2001
Hi Sally, I've got to know, have you ever done any work with Robert Raikes? A friend of mine bought 3 bears a couple years ago. They were the only 3 every made of this kind and we can't tell if it was by you or someone called "Sally Wings"? If not, have you ever heard of her?? Thanks, Laurie
Yes, I did. Sometimes when I sign it looks like wings. ;o)
Sally

Sally how do you determine what colors you will use in each new creation? Annette
Sometimes people who order an edition of bears, like the Illinois Fair, will tell me what they are hoping for and than give me the liberty to create for them. In this case, they will be red, white and blue. Other bears are determined by their personality. You see, each bear's personality comes to life with their face. I take a long hard look at him and than decide who it is going to be and what color. Also, if I have a special piece of material I want to use, I will just go for it and see who appears. Sally

July 4, 2001
Dear Sally, I have this pet peeve. Why don't bear artists take the time to take the fur out of the sewn seams. Gerry
I know that is a problem sometimes. But this gives you a chance to get together with your bear. Find a dog brush and you can brush him out. If the artist forgets some spots it doesn't mean it's not a good bear. They just missed a few spots. I know I miss some.

What type of paint do you use to tip your bears? Do you brush it on or spray it on? Thanks, Terry
I use many different methods, most are explained in the book I wrote "Rainbow Bears to Make and Collect". You can get this book from Handcrafted Beauties. I am however working on new methods all the time and a new one is almost ready to surface. Keep your eyes open for it. Sally

Which sells better for you, dressed or not dressed bears? I can't make up my mind on which I like better. Connie
I think they both sell about the same. I do mostly undressed, but every dressed bear I makes jump into someone's arms quickly. I like to have some of each. Bears with a theme are the best. I love to make custom made bears with the customers desires in mind.

I am taking my bears to my first craft fair. Should I take all of my bears? How should I display them? Joyce
How many is all. I would take at least 30 if you have that many. Everyone's display is different. Some have one, some have hundreds. Just create your own style and don't worry about it. You never know and to get uptight is the worst thing. It does not help you with the sale of your cute bears. They will sell themselves. Best of luck and just do it, it will work. Sally

June 11, 2001
Sally, When making a teddy bear out of real fur rather than fake fur, are there any special considerations to take into account? Once the bear is completed, is there any special care that should be given to ensure that the bear's fur will last longer? I own some mohair hair bears, is there any special care that I should give these bears to help them last longer?
When making a fur bear there is a lot of preparation that is needed. First you must make sure the material is not brittle and that you can sew it with out it ripping. Then you must reinforce it with a muslin backing because as it ages it will become brittle and fall apart.
Care for the bear. Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from moisture. Also if it is out of mohair you must watch that the little bugs do not start eating at your bear. Keep cedar chips near them to scare theses little guys away. They are going to out last you so hug them when ever you get a chance. Do not put them into plastic wrap. Also, when you bring a new or old bear into your house you should put them in the freezer for 48 hours to kill any bugs that might come home with them.

Sally, When designing a new pattern, what proportions do you keep in mind from pattern to pattern? For example, how long are the arms in proportion to the legs, the head in proportion to the body? I keep starting with fat headed stubby legged bears, and can't seem to get the measurements right the first time. Is there a general rule?
Thanks, Terri
I really do not restrict my designs at all. I do not think of proportions I just cut and make and then I enjoy the piece. I feel there is no right or wrong when I create a new design. That is what makes it unique and art. My general rule is to overcome all inhibitions and let my mind be at peace with what I am doing and just do it. I am not saying it is easy, because we are our own worst critics but if you let your mind be free of fear of what you will create, you will be surprised what you can do.

Hi Sally, I was wondering what other artists you enjoy, both in soft sculpture and otherwise. Have any famous artists influenced you in your work?? Do you have a favorite classical artist??
Thanks, Amy Feinberg
I enjoy all art. I believe that each of us has a gift that God gave us and that He is the greatest artist of all. Using that gift in whatever medium is what brings beauty to art.

Is it possible to learn to make plush bears if you do not know how to use a sewing machine?
Thank you, Irene
There are many things you can do. Get a kit where the bear is already sewn for you and you finish it. I have them ready to go. Another way is to hand sew the bear. A lot of people hand sew their bears. You can also take a little time and learn how to sew. It really is not hard to do. I am not sure where you live, but if you want to take one of my classes you are more than welcome. You will leave with a finished bear that you made. Just try and you will be delighted with the out come.

Thank you for taking the time to ask me questions, Sally

May 14, 2001
Hi Sally, I collect bears, bunnies and elephants. Have you ever made any stuffed elephants or considered making some in the future? Sue C
Yes, I make Elephants and any other animal. I would be happy to make you one. Just let Handcrafted Beauties know how big and what color you would like. Sally

Hi Sally, It is almost Valentine's Day and Girl Scout cookies are out. All I can think about is chocolate right now and I think that would be a great bear for you. There is a place in Hawaii called Crazy Shirts and they sell clothes that are scented like coffee, chocolate etc. Can you even imagine how cool that would be to have a fabulous bear made in deep chocolate colors with a chocolate scent also? Thanks! Beja S.
Funny thing I am on my way to Hawaii. I will check it out for next year, that would be fun. Thank you for your love of bears.

Dear Sally, The first two Winey Bears that I purchased were made for charities ~ "Polly" for the Klaas Kids Foundation and "Ashki" for the Dysautonomia Foundation. What other bears have you created for charity organizations, or for special events? Best wishes, Cindy V.
I have done so many. I am not good at keeping track. I just think I am getting old and forget a lot. I should write it down. Sally

April 24, 2001
Sally, How do you feel the teddy bear and bean bag market is faring right now? What do you see for it in the future...say 2 years, 5 years down the road? Will we see many changes during this time? Jan H.
People will always love bears; they are filled with grace. I was making bears before the Bean Bag Bust and will continue to warm the hearts of many. People do not realize that the Bean Bag Bust was just a short-lived story. It did, however, introduce millions of people to real bears and many of us artist to the world. There will always be a place in everyone's heart for a bear. I am not an investor into bears for the profit of the bears. I make them to fill the hearts of others, so I do not think I can give the true answer you are looking for. I know many people who put their life into this past craze and have lost a lot, but they made a lot also. I have learned through my own experiences not to put all your eggs in one basket. If something looks too good to be true, it probably is. My heart goes out to anyone who has lost so much and has worked so hard. I hope they do not stop but redirect their goals with what they have learned through the last couple of years.

Dear Sally, Was it difficult starting your own bear business? I want to do that but there is so much competition, I have been afraid to try. Thanks, Dorothy R.
Fear is not a part of my life. If you love what you are doing and do it well, you need not worry about competition because in truth, there is none. I do what I do and no one else does what I do. They might make bears but I make my own bears not theirs. Fear and worry about what you want to do is not from a good place. Fear sets you up to create reasons for not succeeding. I just do not allow any type of desire for what someone else is doing or that they might do it better than me. Each person has their own work in bear making. You make it or not by doing and not stopping, no matter what comes up. Work at it with joy in your heart and love what ever it is you do and it will be better than you will ever imagine.

Hi Sally, What do you regret the most, if anything, in your bear making history and business? Thanks, Debbie L.
I do not regret a single thing about my history. Life has been great to my family and me. There are many struggles and situations that come up as we grow and you can learn from everything you do. I think I have been blessed with a gift I can share with others and I need to work at it. Things don't always go the way we expect. The only way you lose it is to stop. I will continue to bring joy to the hearts of others through my bears and therefore I will never regret anything.

April 12, 2001
Dear Sally,
Will you ever have a workshop in Las Vegas? I'd love to make a bear.
Margo
I would love to come to Las Vegas and teach a class. See if your favorite Teddy Bear shop or show would like to have me out to teach a class. If you want to get some friends together and have me come out I could do that, too. They can call and set one up.
Sally

Dear Sally,
Earl and Sam, 24" bears, aren't they the same pattern and same bear? How do they differ?
Pamelia
Earl is the original name of the Sam design. He was named after a close friend of our family. Sam is what Ty named his product and it just took hold. I would like to refer to my edition this year and from now on as Earl. There will be a special edition of Earl this year. It is his 10th year.
Sally

April 4, 2001
Dear Sally,
What inspired you to make your first bear?
Ginger
Berries from Tannenbaum Woods

When my daughter Abby was born, 18 years ago in June, I wanted to have a teddy bear to give to each of my older children, when I brought Abby home. I could not afford to buy them so I took corduroy and made each a bear with buttons. Everyone who saw them wanted them so I just kept making new and improved bears. When I started, there were not any bear artist that I knew of so I feel like I pioneered in bear making and that I've only just begun.
Sally

Sally,
When you are making a bear- do you design with a name for the bear in mind? Or do you name the bear once it is created, and you see the finished item?
Hugs! Renee'
I make the bear first and see who he is. My kids help to name them. Sometimes others already have a name picked out. Thank you,
Sally

Dear Sally,
Before I ask my questions I wanted to let you know that I love your bears. You truly have a knack for choosing the right fabric. Which brings me to my question. How do you select the fabric combinations? Do you just play with it until it feels right or do you know that you want this bear to have a theme and go from there?
Tammy
HI, I just play with fabric. I love to come up with things that were never done before. Thank you,
Sally

Hi Sally,
How long do I have to order Jill? Can't get her yet and really don't want to miss a chance to purchase her. Just love the friendship bear that was included with the kit. Thank You! Hope to meet you some day at a bear show.
Hugs, Laura
I am sending your message to Pauline and she will let you know.
Thank you,
Sally

Sally,
When you are making a bear- do you design with a name for the bear in mind? Or do you name the bear once it is created, and you see the finished item?
Hugs! Renee'
I make the bear first and see who he is. My kids help to name them. Sometimes others already have a name picked out. Thank you,
Sally

February 19,2001
Hi Sally!
I have to say again how much Paul and I loved the workshop you did last Fall at Laura's Collectibles! Where do you get those plastic snap-together joints and the large spools of upholstery thread? I didn't even see them in Edinborough. Also, will you be at the Collectible show in Rosemont, IL again this year? Or be doing any workshops in this area soon?
Bless you & your family
Vicki
Hi Vicki and Paul,
Congratulations on winning Rainbow Syd!
Thank you so much for coming to my class. You were a pleasure to teach. I am in the process of scheduling classes for 2001. Here is where I know I will be as of today:
Thousand Oaks, California and Hawaii in April for more information and price you can call me later as dates are not exact as of today.
Peddlers Village in July
Attic Treasures Convention in Kentucky in July
Laura's in October
I am not sure about Rosemont but there is another show in June, I think, at the pier that I am looking into.
I will also be back in San Francisco next January. I also have private lessons at my studio. If you know of a store that would like to have me visit or teach a class, have them call me at (610) 827-0166.

You can find the plastic joints as doll joints at a craft or fabric store.

Please keep your eyes tuned for exciting news coming your way about Winey Bears. I just got back from Toy Fair and there is a lot in the works to surprise you with this year.
Love, Sally

February 1, 2001
Sally.. Are you going to be at Toy Fair this year? Lyn
I will be at Toy Fair for the next week if anyone is looking for me I will be at the Cascade Booth part of the time and displaying my handmade bears with Holy Bears on the lower level. Also my New "I Love Lucy" Bear will be with Classic Collectacritters. Love you all and hope to be home soon. This is my New Beginning...
Sally Ann

January 5, 2001
Sally.. I just wanted to send my well wishes. It's so nice to see you bounce back from the bad times and come out with such adorable designs. Thank you for keeping your fans smiling with your special talents and strong will. I'd like to know which of your beautiful creations is your favorite and why? :o)
-smiles Lisa http://www.planetbeans.com
Hi Lisa,
I really must say that Sam is my favorite Bear. He has brought smiles to so many. The stories I hear about the good Sam has done out way any problems that he causes. Sam has character and is a character. Sally

Dear Sally,
How is your collector's club doing? Any great new things coming out soon?
Sue C.
Jack is coming and a few other specials. I need to get through the Toy Fair Days and then we will be working on some new projects. Check out the club through www.wineybears.com We will be updating this page, also.
Thanks, Sally

Hi Sally,
I heard you were changing the name on your 2001 bear tags, is this true?
Thanks, Karen
I have been working on my new line of bears. They will carry a new tag for the year 2001 called a New Beginning SALLY ANN DESIGNS. Pictures of the new bears will be coming soon. I will be taking these to Toy Fair.
Thanks, Sally

Dear Sally,
Are you making anymore bears for the "I Love Lucy" Collecticritters line?
Sue
Dear Sue,
Yes, Sue, I have just been asked to design one for the 50th Anniversary of "I Love Lucy".
Sally

Hello,
I am curious about the planet plush line. Is she still designing bears for this line?   Lee
Hi Lee,
I am not designing any new bears for Planet Plush.
Thanks for asking, Sally

Dear Sally,
Can you tell me what type of brush to use on my bears?   Thanks, Leanne
Hi Leanne,
There are dog and bear brushes that have fine pin-like bristles that help pull the bear's fur out of the seams and fluff the fur. Be careful with some materials. This brush can rip the fur out or it can make the fur's consistency go from wavy to fluffy or stringy to fluffy.
Sally

Dear Sally,
Do you use embroidery floss for the noses on your bears?   Margaret
Dear Margaret,
Pearl Cotton is preferred for the nose, but if you are unable to use this, you can use embroidery floss. There are also plastic noses that you can put on before the stuffing of the head.
Sally

Dear Sally,
After all you went through in 2,000 do you plan to keep going in 2,001?   I am one fan that hopes you keep going.   Thanks, Andria
Dear Andria,
I want to redirect my bear making to bring unique bears and other animals to my collectors.   Cats are a big desire.   I want to make one of a kind pieces.    I want to make someone smile everyday.
Sally

Hi Sally,
I am a new to bear making.   I am having some real problems with the joints of my bears breaking.   Can you help me?   Thanks, Bobbi
Hi Bobbi,
Welcome to the world of bear making.   It is fun and can bring you years of joy.   When sewing joints in place you need a stronger thread that will not break when you pull it.    I use a very strong carpet thread.   This ensures that the bear's arms, legs, and head will not come off when they are twisted.   Hope this helps.   I would love to see your work.   Please send me a picture.
Sally