The Memory Bear Maker

04/21/2026

It is always exciting to start a new memory bear. Before I cut anything, I always lay the fabric out and take a minute to think about the person it belonged to—who they were, what they meant to the people who loved them.

This one is for a daughter who lost her dad, and I want to get it right. The fabric carries pieces of his story, and my job is to honor that while turning it into something she can hold onto.

Ok...back to the sewing machine! ✂

Photo by Erick Doxey

03/26/2026

I get asked a lot how long it takes to make a memory bear 🧸💛
The short answer is about 6 hours — usually spread out over the course of a week.
🧵 Reinforcing the fabric so it lasts
✂️ Cutting out every piece
🪡 Sewing each part on the machine
🫶 Stuffing and shaping
🔗 Adding the joints so the arms and legs can move
👀 Adding the eyes and 🐻 the ears
🪢 And finally, hand‑stitching the last seams closed
It’s an involved process, but truly a labor of love. Every bear carries someone’s story, and that’s what makes every minute worth it.

01/14/2026

Today, we completed our 150th memory bear and it has made me reflect on everything this journey has taught me. When you sit with families and hear their stories you start to understand something universal: everyone grieves. If you have not faced loss yet, you will and when that moment comes, what matters most is the community around you. These bears offer comfort, but they are only one piece of what really helps people through hard times. The real healing comes from neighbors checking in, friends showing up and a community willing to reach out and hold each other up.
I am so grateful for the incredible team of memory bear makers who show up for me everyday and for the families that have trusted us with their loved ones' clothing and stories. Each bear is a reminder that even in greif, none of us are meant to carry our sorrow alone. If you or someone you know needs a memory bear, please reach out. www.thememorybearmaker.com
Thank you Holt Photography for the photo and for making every single bear in the photo!

01/13/2026

Feeling so grateful today for the incredible team of volunteer Memory Bear Makers I get to work alongside. Each person brings so much heart, skill, and compassion to this project, and together we are able to offer families comfort during some of their hardest moments.
These gorgeous bears were made by the amazingly talented Tina Sowler, whose creativity and craftsmanship shine in every stitch. I am constantly inspired by the dedication and love this team pours into each bear.
Thank you all for helping keep this project growing, comforting, and full of connection. Our community is better because of you. 🐻💕

11/06/2025

🧸✨ When I first launched The Memory Bear Maker, I dreamed it would grow into a community project—one that honored stories and connected people. I wanted to create memory bears for the community and WITH the community. I am so grateful to have that dream a reality.
I’m thrilled to introduce Dee and Judy two incredibly talented memory bear makers whose hands and hearts are touching lives. Their artistry and compassion shine through every bear they create, and I’m so grateful to have them as part of this growing circle.
Together, we’re turning memories into something you can hold.
🐻💛

11/05/2025

10/21/2025

🧸✨ Sweater weather is here—and so is my favorite season for making memory bears! There's something extra cozy about stitching in my studio this time of year, especially knowing that most of these bears will be wrapped up as Christmas gifts.
If you're thinking about a one-of-a-kind holiday keepsake, now’s the perfect time to reach out. Let’s make something meaningful together.

10/14/2025

Grief hurts. Memory bears help.
They’re made from clothing that belonged to someone you love. Holding one can bring comfort when you need it most.
If you’re grieving, or know someone who is, a memory bear can be a gentle way to feel close again.

10/07/2025

These two made it all the way to Germany!

09/26/2025

🐻Our first Memory Bear Making class was a great success!
We shared stories and made beautiful bears. The room was full of warmth, laughter, and connection—thank you to everyone who joined us! Thank you Lorna Holt Photography for the great photos!

Ready to make your own? The next class begins October 22.
Register through the Pend Oreille Arts Council (POAC) and come be part of something meaningful. 💙