The Knitted Teddy Bear by Sandra Polley

I've always loved teddy bears, and even crocheted about 45 with my Mom while on bedrest awaiting the arrival of our first baby - they made really cute baby announcements... so when I saw this book, I fell in love.  Not only are the bears in this book cute, but the instructions are all written in a clear and helpful way, so it is fun to make one-of-a-kind creations that will be cherished.

Author Sandra Polley has done a GREAT job of keeping things simple and easy to understand.  She explains everything in detail with illustrations and pictures to help out.  She also uses straight-forward stitches and has the instructions for each one in the front of the book.  She also talks about where to get supplies, how to change the face to make it younger, older, smile, etc, and she has great tips on stuffing and even mentions that you can buy a pillow and use the stuffing from that (you can often find a sale on pillows and fiber filled quilts, and they may be less expensive than the same filling purchased from a craft/fabric store).

Another fun thing I noticed is that the author even gives tips on making the bears with movable joints.

The bears in this book are all different sizes, so readers/crafters can pick their favorite and go from there.  Honestly, I think a newer knitter would do just fine following the instructions, so if this sounds fun - don't be afraid to jump in!  (after doing one or two, you can probably figure out how to change the pattern up a bit to make them skinnier or plumper as well)

For those knitters who like to work from charts - I didn't see any in the advance copy - only written instructions, which I actually prefer.  The illustrations showing how to assemble the bears and clothing are great, and the author includes many handy tips.

This is going to be a great book for any knitter, any fan of teddy bears, or anyone wanting to make a keepsake toy for a friend or loved one.

The Knitted Teddy Bear: Make Your Own Heirloom Toys, With Dozens of Patterns For Unique Clothes  
by Sandra Polley
Publisher: Anova Books - Collins & Brown Imprint  ~ 96 pages Available now
Non-Fiction / Crafts - Knitting

Edition Reviewed: eBook - Review copy received courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley, many thanks to both the author and the publisher for sending me an e-copy to review!

About the Book (from the publisher):

-Patterns for bears and accessories for teddy bear devotees

-More than 12 different teddy bear patterns from the classic hump-backed, long-armed collector’s bear to a miniature baby bear

-Each bear is shown knitted up with easy-to-follow instructions and clear diagrams

Knitting small toys is an absorbing and addictive hobby and homemade teddies have a special charm all of their own. The Knitted Teddy Bear has patterns to knit more than twelve gorgeous teddy bears, ranging in style and size. You will find traditional-style heirloom bears for serious teddy affictionados; for children there are bears with their own wardrobe of clothes; and there are tiny teds for the miniature bear enthusiasts

The instructions are easy to follow and there are clear diagrams showing how to sew up, thread-joint, and create the perfect gift or heirloom. You can build on the patterns given to create many other variations, including ‘old’ bears that have been loved and left in the attic, character teddies and mascots. The Knitted Teddy Bear is perfect for teddy bear lovers and keen knitters of all skill-levels from the experienced to relative beginners.

About the Author: (from the publisher's site)

Sandra Polley has had many years experience with crafts, especially knitting and soft toy-making. She has a particular interest in making and collecting miniature teddy bears. She started to design her traditionally styled knitted bears about 2 years ago and now runs a successful small business selling her knitting patterns and kits worldwide. Her teddy bear patterns have recently been featured in the UK’s Woman’s Weekly magazine.

*Disclosure: I am an Amazon Associate. I get a very small amount for any purchases made when you click through a link from Wendi's Book Corner, which I then save up to buy more books. :)