Memory bears bring comfort and connection to people who lost their loved ones
Special bears are being created to help preserve special memories
A retired nurse in Portsmouth is helping people preserve cherished memories by transforming loved ones’ clothing into handmade teddy bears.
Having moved to the city and knowing few people, Wendy Averall, 71, decided to use her sewing skills to connect with the local community. She initially organised a five-week course, teaching people the basics of using a sewing machine.
However, after discovering memory bears on social media, she saw an opportunity to offer something more meaningful.
“I thought, what a good idea,” she explained. “If you’ve lost somebody and you’ve got their clothing, wouldn’t it be nice to have something made out of their clothing that you could relate to, sit on your lap, hold and feel close to that person again?”
Around 18 months ago, she began making the bears using a pattern she had found. Since then, her creations have grown in size and quality, with demand increasing as more people hear about her work.
Each bear is unique, carrying its own story. Some are made from the clothing of loved ones who have died, while others commemorate important milestones.
One bear was created from a child’s school uniform as a keepsake when she left her school after several years. Another was made from her father’s shirts, allowing a family member to hold onto a personal reminder of him.
The bears are also not limited to human memories. Wendy has also received requests to transform pet bedding into bears commemorating deceased dogs, offering comfort to grieving owners.
For her, the work goes beyond sewing. She sees herself as a source of support during the grieving process, emphasising compassion, empathy and respect for everyone who visits her. Through her handmade bears, she said she is helping people hold onto memories, offering a tangible connection to those they have lost.
“Every single one is different,” she said, highlighting the personal stories behind each creation.
To hear more about Wendy’s memory bears watch the video embedded in this story.
You can Wendy via her Facebook page called Sew with Wendy.