All about Carla

    I would like to welcome you to my web site. I am glad that you are interested in learning more about my teddy bears and me.

    In 1967  I married my high school sweethart, Gary.  We have three wonderful children:  Kellie, David and Matthew.  David is now married to our daughter-in-law, Debbie.  They have given us our first grandchild, Britany.  Words can not describe how much happiness she has added to our lives.  I am so fortunate to have such a wonderful family.

    From the time I was 8 years old,  I have always been interested in some form of sewing. Knitting, crocheting, counted cross stitch and quilting were some of my early interests and over the years have evolved into teddy bear making. I guess it is the excitement of taking raw materials and creating something special that keeps me motivated.

    Back in 1981, before my youngest son was born, I began making quilts.  Within a short time I was winning ribbons for these and decided to sell wallhangings  at various craft shows in the area. Then I added some muslin dolls and my first teddy bears which I made out of old cutter quilts.  Within a few months I began making fur teddy bears out of  inexpensive fur from our local fabric shops.  Then I decided to make a teddy bear out of mohair.  People started buying teddy bears more and more.  What I saw was not only how much the teddy bear was loved, but how the faces walking up to by booth were grinning, laughing and began making comments on how these furry little bears had so much personality.  I often make up stories about some of the teddies and now men and women alike are making up things they think the teddies are saying, too. Whether they are actually collectors or just walk up to check them out, one thing for sure, the teddy  bear brings them happiness.

      Over the years many people have asked me to teach them how to make a teddy bear.  I have now developed a bear making class that I teach in June and October each year.  Many of these people have made other teddy bears for family and friends and a few even have gone on to sell at shows.

    They say a Teddy Bear speaks to you when it is the right one.  What does it say?  Maybe, "Please take me." or "Am I the one you want among all the others?"  Maybe it doesn't really speak, but rather touches your soul with his and makes the two of you connected for life.

    Of all the different types of crafts that I have made in the past, teddy bear making has allowed me to use my imagination the most. There's something about that little face looking up at you as you finish the last stitch that is very satisfying. At that point they "Have a Heart".
 
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