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Which are split down the center, or are the two side pieces just sewn together, and the shaping achieved some other way? Are there any good patterns available for center-seam heads?
Litwit, our library has good information concerning gussets. It's located right above your post in the middle . . . "Accessories". Just scroll down and click on ' heads'.
Both kinds are possible, LitWit. Traditionally, a regular head gusset was split down the middle (and seam allowance added) to achieve more efficient cutting of the bolt of mohair. You can do this "splitting" procedure with any pattern piece you have. Just be sure to add a seam allowance to both sides of the cut.
And some people make two-piece (or four-piece) heads, with a seam in the center of the head--with no gusset at all. The shaping options seem more limited to me (I love a big muzzle), but it works well with some kinds of bears. Try the search function here to look for posts by Tickled Pink Bears (Kelly Previti). Her little contemporary bears are adorable. I'm sure there are other artists making non-gusseted bears, but hers come to mind.
Becky
A two piece head definitely works better on a miniature bear than on a larger one. There is enough stretch on the bias in most fabrics to give you the shaping on a tiny head. On a larger bear I would use a gusset and split it as Becky said for a center seam.
Most of my designs are center seam. I use darts to make shape. I have a few pattern available too. You can find these in my webshop.
Hope this helps,
Berta
Hi I have a centre seam and use a four piece head pattern. The nose/muzzle is made part from shaping of the pattern and part needle sculpting and eye placement.