That's sew Shelley

06/10/2026

I get asked all the time what led me into making bears and if I do it full-time?

So, for those of you who only know me as a bear maker, here is a bit about me.

My background is dressmaking where I worked as a bridal designer for many years. I've sewn since I was little, and made my first wedding dress at age 17!

I owned a couple of bridal boutiques, and won Scottish Bridal Designer of the Year 2014.

I also worked as a theatrical costume designer alongside. If you've ever been to a show in the Whitehall or Gardyne, chances are I made some of the costumes.

In 2017, I had a wee mid-life crisis 😄
So, at the age of 43, sold up the business, went to uni and got a MA in Psychology, and postgrad qualifications in Autism, ADHD, and mental health. I now work as a specialist mentor, where I help neurodivergent university students cope with managing uni and their mental health.

Three years ago, my friend asked me to make a keepsake bear for her daughters graduation. I gave it a go and it really took off. I've made hundreds of them in the last few years since and now split my time between my uni job and making memory bears. ###

05/10/2026

Recent keepsake pony and lion made from baby clothing and embroidered with names.

Much nicer than saving a bag of outgrown clothes ###

04/10/2026

A recent order of style 3 bears. These teddies are floppier, but more cuddly than the other styles I do. Just as cute though ###

19/09/2026

Back to the day job on Monday after my summer off.

As my availability will become more limited, I am opening up 15 spaces now for Xmas.

£10 deposit secures your guaranteed xmas space, even if you're not sure what you would like made yet ###

07/09/2026

Should I add this wee bear to my style options?

I have had this pattern since the start, but for whatever reason, I've never made it up until today.

Its smaller than my usual bears, which might suit some people better?

Sits about 9", and is quite sturdy as doesn't have movable arms and legs.

Let me know what you think 🐻 🩷 x

01/09/2026

*September offer*

That time of year again when nursing students are looking forward to graduation in November.

I have limited spaces available for graduation bears. These are £40. Usual £10 deposit to secure your space, then tunic can be handed in when you're done with it.

* 12 spaces available

21/08/2026

4 smart bears collected and off to their new home ###

16/08/2026