FAQ

So, you've decided to order a Mama's Bear?  Great!  Now comes the hard part: you have to choose clothing items to send in!


What makes my bears special?

My 18 inch bears have an applique nose and safety eyes (the eyes permanently lock on the inside of the head and are safer for little ones than buttons).  I use a high quality poly stuffing, and  plastic beanies in the hands, feet, and bum... so the bear sits nicely and has some weight to it. 


How do I choose clothing to use for my bear?

I suggest gathering all the clothing items that you think you might want to use for your bear.   Then, choose your absolute favorite clothing item.   And use that item as the basis for a color scheme.   

  • Is your daughter's dress from her first day of school pink and purple?   Choose additional items to support those colors.
  • Does your son's favorite flannel pajamas have firetrucks and tractors?   Then you're probably looking for additional items in red and yellow.
  • Is your baby's hospital receiving blanket pink, white, and blue?   Then choose a couple more baby sleepers in those colors.


How many items should I mail to you?

The number of items you send depends on the size of the clothing you have:   

  • If you're sending in your grandfather's police uniform shirt, then that's all you need to send.  (Unless you want to add a contrasting color item for visual interest.)
  • If you're sending in infant sleepers, you'll need to send in at least 6, or send in a baby blanket and 2-4 sleepers.


I typically ask that you send in a minimum of 4 pieces of children's clothing size 2t or larger.  Or 6 pieces of clothing size 24 months or smaller.   You are welcome to send more, and I'll return what I don't use.  Please label any items that are extra special, and I'll use those in a prominent way.   If you're sending in extra only to be used if needed, then label those so I can return them if I don't need them.


What types of clothing work best?

  • Woven cotton or flannel items
  • Monogrammed items
  • Shirts or pants with pockets
  • Shirts with special embellishments/embroidery
  • A mixture of printed and solid colored items
  • Do you love a brand, such as Matilda Jane Clothing or Ralph Lauren Polo?   Add a note to that item and I'll include the logo or label on one of the bear's feet.


How do I mail my items to you?

Upon checkout, I will send you my mailing address.  Simply place your items in a ziplock bag, mark it clearly with the name and email you used at checkout, and drop your items at the post office!   I'll contact you via email as soon I receive your package!


What's your turnaround time?

My current turnaround time is 2-3 weeks from the day I receive your package of clothing items in the mail.  Please keep in mind that I will be very busy around holidays, and I close my shop the entire month of December.