Teddy Talk: Creating, Collecting, Connecting

For artists and collectors sponsored by Intercal...your mohair supplier and Johnna's Mohair Store

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New Avenue Crew by Debora Hoffmann
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Posts: 1,959
Website

New Avenue Crew Jun 12, 2006

Hi all,

I haven't worked with synthetic fur in quite a while, and I have this lovely German synthetic that my cousin's daughter wants to make a bear from. (I'm teaching her to make a bear, though I'll probably make much of it myself. bear_whistle ) Can anyone tell me...do I need to trim the fur from the seam allowances? I'm thinking I do, because it has fairly thick underfur. I'm not sure what my sewing machine will think of it! bear_laugh

Thanks for your advice,
Debora

Baird'sBears
Toronto
Posts: 3,873

Eileen Jun 13, 2006

bear_original Debora--

I've used faux with a thick undercoat--Tissavel, which is wonderful stuff-- and I'd definitely suggest trimming the seam allowances.

I'd also double-check to make sure the backing is woven, not knit. Even the firmest knit will stretch with stuffing, and needs to be lined.

Good luck, and I hope this helps!

New Avenue Crew by Debora Hoffmann
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Posts: 1,959
Website

New Avenue Crew Jun 13, 2006

Thanks, Eileen! I think it's a woven backing, so no need to line it. Whew! bear_original It is great to hear from someone who has worked with this sort of fur before. Thank you!

Debora

All Bear by Paula
Kent
Posts: 5,162
Website

All Bear Jun 13, 2006

Yep, trim the seams all round! It's time consuming and makes your nose tickle, but worth it in the end!

Teddy Bear Academy
Nicholasville, KY
Posts: 3,653
Website

Laura Lynn Banner SponsorJun 13, 2006

I have to agree!!! I tried both ways... and wow was it hard when I did not trim the seams :twisted: The next time (and EVERY time after that) I trimmed the seams and it was wonderful!! Remember to leave a slightly larger opening to turn your pieces than you do with mohair... it REALLY helps!