Tattered Old Bear. Handmade by artist, Judy Geagley*
A distressed looking bear that shows the badges of being loved by small hands for years (patches, repaired eye and worn looking fur). Tattered Old Bear comes with a story book of how he came to be. Judy, the artist and maker of this adorable teddy, dedicated Tattered Bear's story to her daughter (and her daughter's well-loved Teddy). Tattered Old Bear measures approximately 12" tall.
Tattered Old Bear $79.00
Sorry, Tattered Old Bear has recently been sold.
Patches," a one-of-a-kind handmade 15" tall bear by Judy Geagley. Patches is a vintage-styled bear handmade with a heavy felt and accented with little patches and stitchings. Patches has shoe button eyes and a hand-sewn nose. Why does Patches look so sweet? Because, he certainly looks loved...so maybe this is why he's such a happy bear! All bears loved to be loved...wont you adopt Patches? Not only will you make Patches overjoyed to have a new home, but rest assured, this little bear is guaranteed to bring you enough smiles upon your face to make you so happy that he belongs to you!$89.00
Sorry. Patches has recently been adopted!
Another wonderful bear by Judy Geagley...Coatie Bear, who got his name from the material he was made with, stands about 16" tall and is made from not only wool, but an actual vintage wool coat! Coatie is a one-of-a-kind bear and is such a unique teddy, eager to become part of your collection! If you have a coat you love, but do not love to wear, maybe Judy will make a similar style bear, like Coatie, just for you! Please e-mail for information and we'll be happy to place your request with the talented designer and maker of unique bears, Judy Geagley.
Coatie Bear $65.00
Arthur Willie, 14" bear with little bunny by Judy Geagley. Arthur Willie was made with recycled synthetic wool and wears a green sweater. He carries his very good bunny friend in his left paw. "Arthur Willie" handmade teddy bear (and bunny) $79.95
Judy Geagley About the artist:
Living in the Appalachian region of Kentucky, Judy and Gordon Geagley have been designing bears since 1987. They are juried participants of the Kentucky Craft Marketing Program. The inspiration for their bears comes from family, friends, and the roots of their heritage. Together they design and create unique bears made from new and recycled fabrics.
The teddy bear's workshop is in the basement of their home. There, you can find many piles of fabric and teddy bear parts waiting to become "real". They love watching these little bears come to life.
Judy started bear making to earn extra money and be able to stay at home with their three children. To their surprise, it has transformed into a full time job. Gordon and Judy are participants in "Kentucky Crafted, the Market" which is held once a year in Louisville, Kentucky. This wholesale market allows buyers from retail stores across America to see and purchase their bears.
Since 1997, they have attended the New York International Gift Fair, twice a year, taking many orders for their unique bears. Gordon and Judy's bears are sold all over the world.
The bears are created from recycled garments, wool skirts, suits, and both wool and fur coats. Judy's grandmother, Bessie Schweickart, taught her to make do with what you have, never to waste good fabric. As a result, Judy makes great use of fabric by recycling it into Teddy Bears, giving them a second chance in life and keeping a part of family heritage alive. For example, Chance E. Bear.
Tattered Old Bear was inspired by their youngest daughter's love for her first Teddy Bear - and how he has become a part of their family. Tattered Old Bear was made to look like a bear that has been loved and hugged for many years. A story written by Judy comes with each Tattered Old Bear. Dedicated to their daughter and "Teddy".
All of their bears are inspired by treasured memories and dreams. Many of their creations are one of a kind, and very unique pieces to add to any bear collection or to take home and love. Interestingly, Judy never had a teddy bear while growing up; however, she is making up for lost time now. Judy and Gordon enjoy working together and watching teddy bears come to life.
More on Judy Geagley: Judy's creativity is given recognition in The Chicago Tribune. Click here to view article.
