Turning miniature limbs

[Chalkhills Collective]

Hi everyone
I'm a very new bear maker (under 6 months). After making a larger bear I've dived in with both feet and jave concentrated on mini bears (I'm now on my 6th). One (of several) problems I'm having is turning limbs inside out without ripping off chunks of fur and leaving bear patches. I use both forceps and tweezers. Any hints and tips you're able to share would be great.

Best wishes

Liz

[Chowlea Bears]

I tried to make mini's but my arthritic hands objected and I ended up killing the bear. ( Don't tell the bear police :6086: )

Hemostats may be your answer - they grip without tearing if you see what I mean..... They are available in different sizes and shaped 'ends'

[Chalkhills Collective]

Hi, thanks for your reply. I've tried using Hemostats, sounds like I need more practice though (poor bears!).

Liz

[davistedds]

Hi Liz,

What sort of fabric are you using? I find some easier to turn than others - always make sure you leave enough opening for turning, as I've found a small opening makes life more difficult!! :mad: Would love to see some of your bears!! ;)

[Ruth]

Liz, how mini are we talking ? I assume you're using mohair if the fur is coming off when turning -Upholstery velvet (preferred for really tiny pieces) doesn't seem to have this problem.It also has a "grid" backing which means it will not fray , it is probably a lot less stiff on very small limbs etc too when turning.Have you tried leaving a thread,with knotted end to keep it in, poking through the furthest point of the turning piece ,which can just be cut off once the arm or whatever is right side out.It needs to be long enough to get a hold of ,and you insert it as you sew round (ie shoulder end of arm)then tie a knot to stop it slipping through.Together with your tweezers it could lessen the problem ,hopefully! :6039: I also find it better to leave turning gaps nearer to the stiffer parts (the foot with pad,or paw and pad)re-inforce the stitches at either side of the gap to lessen pulling also.
I hope my explanation doesn't confuse...:rolleyes: Happy sewing with all your projects !!:6013:
Ruth

[Chowlea Bears]

Have you tried leaving a thread,with knotted end to keep it in, poking through the furthest point of the turning piece ,which can just be cut off once the arm or whatever is right side out.

What a great idea............... see - we learn as we travel............:6034:

[Chalkhills Collective]

Hi
Thanks for the hints. I tried the knotted thread on some already sewn limbs last night and it was a real help:) . I'll try the other tips on my next new bear.

I've mostly worked with mohair (sparse and dense 3-4mm). I've looked for upholsetry fabric, but haven't been able to source any. I've found the sparse mohair easier to turn than the dense.

I'm somewhat embarrassed to show my work, but here is my lastest completed bear. He's 100mm (4"). The scarf hides a rather wobbly head and the ears need improving! 214

Apologies about the size of the picture, as well as learning to make bears I'm also learning how to post of forums!

Liz

[Judi Russell]

Hi Liz, I think your little bear is lovely, why would you worry about posting his picture. If you want upholstery fabric, then blowing our own trumpet, we sell it here at Christie Bears. It is often called, Standard Sheen or Cashmere, but that is what is used for mini bears. Hope it helps and keep on making the little bears.

[Laurie]

I shouldn't be embarrassed about posting your bear as he is a lovely little chap.Keep up the good work as you are doing great:6013:

[Chowlea Bears]

I'm somewhat embarrassed to show my work

Liz I hope your joking.................he's a wonderful little chap.

CONGRATULATIONS.:6026:

[davistedds]

Liz, he is wonderful!! Soooo cute!! His face is so sweet!! ;)

Give the miniature fabrics a try when you can, they're really easy to turn, you'll love them I'm sure.

Great work!! :p :p

[Ruth]

Great little bear Liz!:6038: He's a real little Gent' !
Ruth.

[Chalkhills Collective]

Hi everyone
Thanks for all your helpful hints and encouragement. It's been a real boost. I'm going to the Winter BearFest next month and I hope I'll be able to meet some of you there. :)

Liz

[shelly]

Great little bear , I just couldn't make anything that small well done !!

:6086: :6087: