Advice on joint size/bear size

[Niddynoddy]

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone had any advice about joint sizes and bear sizes. I've now made 4 bears, all of which have been either from a pattern with clear cottle joint sizes on, or from a pattern that I have made which I pretty much the same size as the other bears.

I am now wanting to really change the design of my bears in size and shape. But, how can I work out what size joints I need to order? It is simply a case of measuring the area where the joint will be and guessing? It it better to have a bigger joint for the head or does it not matter?

Also, one last questions, what are everyones opinions on cottle joints vrs the nut and bolt ones? I have only used the cottle ones so far.

Many thanks

Zoe

[Rich1988]

Hi Zoe

When I design a bear I stitch it all up first and only then do I pick the size of joints. With the limbs still inside out I put a 'guesstimate' size over my limb hole marking and check how much room there is. You want a disc to fill the joint but to allow a little room for turning and seam allowance etc. At this point I might also measure and reposition where I want the pin/bolt to come out of the limb.
Obviously this only helps if you trust yourself to guess right (I've definitely gotten it wrong) and if you have enough different size joints to try it.

With the head I usually try the same joint as for the leg and arm, see if either fit. If not, try another size depending on your thoughts. With the head it is a bit more of a guess for me but I just imagine.... how will this hold/look when I gather the head? Will I have enough room? Too much? Then also remember to rest it inside the body to see if it will lean out like shoulders or it it will fit snug. (Alot to think about right).

To be honest though with joint sizes I don't think you can go too wrong to start with.

I always prefer nut and bolt for limbs as you can really tighten them AND if they are wrong, unbolt, change disc size and start again. I usual a regular nut, bolt and rachet set and it works fab. I do however still use cotter pin for the head.

Hope this helps a litte but also looking forward to however other people approach this.

Richard
x

[Niddynoddy]

Hi Richard,

Thanks for the brilliant advice. I dont have loads of joint discs but maybe I should. Your very patient to wait till you have sewed it up before getting the joints. I am way to impatient and want everything ready there and then. I also think that upon your recommendation, I might order some nut and bolt type joints. They sound less fiddly and as I broke my arm 5 weeks ago the cottle pin joints are proving difficult to do.

Many thanks for your reply
Zoe