THE MEMORY BEAR COURSE

 Duration and Earnings

  • During this 9 week course, customers will receive 18 learning hours. When you subtract the time you spend delivering demonstrations and instructions, customers spend 10.5 hours making the kimono. It takes them longer to make it than it would you; it would only take you around 7 hours to make it. Some customers will complete the kimono in session 8, but an additional session is added to allow for any slower sewists or any absences during the course.

  • Total earnings of £600 is broken down below:

    • The advised preparation time for this course is 7 hours, with earnings of £140

    • Your total delivery time is 23 hours, with earnings of £460

Challenge level and skills

This is marketed as a challenge level 2 out of 5 course. Customers view the course info page to determine which course is suitable for their ability and desired aims.

There are 23 separate pieces of fabric to make the bear, which includes mostly curved seams and some hand stitching. The most challenging parts of the project is the design stage, working out which pieces of fabric to use for each pattern piece. Sewing the feet and the face are also difficult, as they are so small. Extra time is allocated at these stages in the session schedule. During the course, you will emphasise the following skills, for customers to learn:

  • Pattern markings and lay planning

  • Curved seams

  • Construction of multiple separate pieces

  • Invisible slip stitches

Fabrics

Interfacing, polyester stuffing, plastic eyes and noses and pattern pieces are provided in the customers’ kits. No fabrics are provided on this course, as customers bring meaningful textile items to cut up and turn into a bear to cherish, such as baby’s clothing, passed loved ones clothing, or vintage tea towels. Customers are given the option to make either a bear or a bunny. Both patterns are the same, except for the ear shape.

A final note from Anneka

This is such an enjoyable course to run. There is something very special about making your own memory bear, so multiply that by 10 people in the room doing this, and it’s quite a sight! Customers thoroughly enjoy it, with the most popular choice being to use baby’s outgrown clothing, from new mummies on maternity leave. Stages of making are simple, short, and quick to complete, with very small pieces having short seams to sew. The pieces come together quickly, exciting customers as they see their bear come to life.