When a local gentleman passed away in 2006, a family member asked Pat Jessen to make a memory bear out of his clothing. She had never heard of them but after a quick search she was able to find a pattern. You could say the rest was history. 10 years and 500 bears later, Pat still loves to make these bears for people and makes quite a bit. Before Christmas she had 60 bears to make and has already made 30 this year alone. Through the years she has tweaked the pattern and now makes different sizes.
Pat learned sewing from her mom, but she taught herself how to crochet. “My mom knit but I just didn’t like it. I bought a book and taught myself how to crochet from that.” She not only makes memory bears but she makes other items; from name doilies to scarves, from crocheted booties to pillows. The name doilies can either be framed or sit on a table. Pat made one for herself which is one of the larger options that she has sitting on a table. “If there is a pattern, I can make just about anything.” A quick look through her Facebook is evidence of this. Her husband jokingly says it’s an addiction but Pat believes it’s something crafty to keep her occupied.
Each bear is individually made from a piece of clothing and they feature a tag with a picture on the front and a poem inside. Pat uses a couple of different poems, which she feels gives it another personal touch. The bears start at $25 but can cost a little bit extra if you want clothes for the bear. The clothes are also made from a loved ones’ clothes. Pat uses all sorts of clothing to make the bears; from sweaters and bathrobes to antique fur coats. “The fur coat was a bit scratchy and it left pilling everywhere.” Pat has also used old military uniforms and baby onesies. There is even an order for her to make a bear from a wedding dress.
Business has really grown from word of mouth and Facebook. She has bears in many different states and even has a bear in Germany. If you’re interested in a memory bear, name doily, or anything else you can contact Pat via Facebook or (605) 661-8160.
