A local crafter is turning special clothing into beautiful keepsake teddy bears
Certain garments hold more than fabric and thread.
For many of us, old clothes, blankets and toys carry the warmth of a hug, the echo of a laugh, precious memories or even the presence of someone who is very much missed.
If parting with these cherished pieces feels impossible to you, a local crafter is giving new life to the irreplaceable, transforming beloved babygros, PJs, shirts, dresses, and uniforms into keepsake teddy bears that can be displayed, cuddled and enjoyed for many years to come.
Anita Johnston of Great Island Creative Gifts in Cobh has literally been bringing tears to her customer’s eyes with the care and attention that goes into each piece.
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“One of my bestsellers online are personalised ragdolls, people love to share nostalgic stories about their childhood toys and that inspired me last year to start working on some designs for keepsake bears and doggies.” Anita told Yay Cork.
“I have made teddies to commemorate a loved one but also for happier times from college graduations to school mascot teddies using uniforms, scrubs and lab coats.”
Anita’s adorable soft toys have also been ordered for weddings, where they are a physical reminder of family members who are sadly missed on the big day.
“I recently completed an order of bears made from a selection of a bride’s parent’s clothing, which was used at a wedding ceremony to pay tribute to the parents who had recently passed.” Anita shared.
“It is such a satisfying job and I just love sharing the finished products with my customers. It’s hard to put into words a customers reaction to seeing their Dad’s PJs made into a traditional bear. It can be quite emotional at times with tears all ’round and I feel honoured to be trusted with this process from start to finish.”
With prices starting at around €50, Anita’s bears take around three weeks to make and they can be ordered online here by sending clothes in the post or by drop off in Cobh,
