Why We Love A Stuffed Bear

By Alyssa Riggs


A stuffed bear is one of those items that people are most likely to keep from their childhood. It was often a favorite toy and carries with it precious childhood memories. There is no age limit for those who love bears and both adults and children find pleasure in owning them.

Bears captured hearts from the first time they appeared. Of course, the look of bears has changed considerably over the years. The first ones made had beady, black, boot button eyes, long snouts and jointed limbs. Now the eyes are made from glass and plastic, the snouts have shrunk, bodies are more cuddly and they are cuter and softer to handle. Of course those old bears are highly sought after by collectors.

In the old days, the synthetics we have today were not yet invented so stuffing consisted of wood wool at first and later many different materials such as straw, newspaper and cotton. Today synthetic materials like plastic and foam are used. When they were first made, mohair was favored as a covering and this has also been replaced over the years with more giving, softer materials.

Over the years since they first appeared, bears have made their mark in history. In America, the first teddy bears were made when a cartoon appeared of Teddy Roosevelt saving a bear cub from being shot. They became extremely popular and made appearances at various historical occasions from then on. They were given as gifts when the Titanic went down. The first Atlantic non-stop flight saw them being used as mascots.

In the literary world, they have also made an impact. Winnie the Pooh has always been a firm favorite of both children and adults alike. Paddington Bear, Rupert Bear and the Berenstein Bears are also beloved fictional characters. Many an adult remembers with fondness bedtime stories about bears.

Bears have always made perfect gifts. They can be hugged and cuddled, talked to, given names and make the perfect companion at bedtime. They can be customized with embroidery, particular clothing and other details to make them unique. They make a lovely gift for a special occasion like a graduation or the birthday of the loved one.

The variety of choice available today is astounding. This includes baby safe ones, the musical variety, giants and dainty ones as well as those which are more classical. There are many available from online shops where you can look through large selections and make comparisons before buying. Make sure that you choose a reputable company so you will not be let down with regard to quality and reliability. Reading customer reviews can help.

A stuffed bear will always have a special place in the heart. It makes the perfect toy but has come to have much more significance too. Many adults still have bears that they are reluctant to part with. Collectors spend vast amounts of money to add them to their collections. Since their humble beginnings they have become popular in countries all over the world.




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