Even though the teddy bear is over 100 years old, it is still one of the most popular toys with children of all ages. Teddy bears are often the constant companion of small children. The stuffed bear inspires courage in the dark, friendship when we are lonely, and comfort when we aren’t feeling well. The cute, cuddly, stuffed bears have been known to bring out warm feelings in even the toughest of men. We have been inspired by the teddy bear to the point of writing songs and poetry about them. One poem entitled, ‘Egbert and Me’, concerns a bear that wakes in... 

Learning to start making your own garments in a pleasurable way is one of the best things that you can do in your entire life. And the best thing about that is you can feel proud every time you see your friends or relatives wear your masterpiece. In the same way, crocheting is more than just stitches and yarns. It is, basically, a wonderful activity that almost everybody would love to engage in. Who would not? With all those “calming effect” and sense of fulfillment, learning crochet lessons is the ultimate way to hone your skill. Contrary to most popular beliefs,... 

The spinning wheel has been used by weavers for hundreds of years. Up to now, several people the world over are still using the tool, even though it is now available in a variety of designs, functions and types. You can find spinning wheels working mechanically, while there are also electronic versions that make very intricate and even designs. About the Wheel A spinning wheel is described as a device used to spin yarn or thread using synthetic or natural fibers. The earliest clear images of the spinning wheel originated in Baghdad in 1237, Europe 1280 and China 1270. The spinning... 

Many crafters do not take the time to learn about the correct batting for their quilting projects, but it can make the difference between a successful quilting project and an unsuccessful one. The right batting can have an enormous effect on the finished appearance of your quilting project. It can also make the difference between enjoying the process of quilting or hating it. You spend hours planning the design and look of the outer layers of your quilting project, why not take the time to learn a bit about the batting that goes inside? Batting is the insulating fabric, which... 

The history of rag doll cats is very fascinating. Myth and controversies surrounds the stories related to the origin of ragdoll cats. Some of the stories have some factual content, whereas there are others which are jus figment of imagination. The ragdoll cat breed is said to have started in California in the early 1960s, a woman named Ann Baker is said to have founded this breed of cat. The very first cat of the ragdoll breed was named Josephine. Ann baker noticed a particular characteristic about Josephine and her offspring. When held these cats would become limp like a rag... 

To successfully spin yarn or wool, you have to know the right technique and be associated with the common materials used for the approach. There are several kinds of spinning tools and materials that will help you make more yarns with good quality. Spinning is an art in itself and the quality of your weaving will also be affected by how you make yarn. Spinning Wool First, you need to prepare the wool. It is very easy to find carded wool or wool that is already brushed out and ready for spinning, at various craft and yarn stores. You can also find the needed materials online.... 

Teddy bear artists are responsible for some unique and interesting teddy bears. A number of these artists are willing to share a few patterns with the public. You will find teddy bear patterns, or links to patterns, on the sites below. A number of these patterns are free. You can also purchase kits to make your own bear, not to mention, materials and accessories to make your teddy complete. You will find teddy bear patterns, kits designed by Chris Cotton, as well as teddy bear making supplies here, Easy and Fun Teddy Bear Patterns. At, http://www.christiebears.co.uk/acatalog/Patterns.html,... 

Many people today might not be aware of the fact that the collectible hobby industry is currently declining in popularity. This might be due to the fact that collectibles have taken a backseat to technology. The younger generation of today has taken more of an interest in computers, cell phones, Playstation, Nintendo and Ipods. The slower pace of yesteryear made collecting a fun pastime for children and their families who did not have all the advances of today to fill their time. Families used to pass their time collecting coins and stamps. The baby boom generation made the... 

Teddy bears have been around for over 100 years. It is reasonable to assume, in all that time, some of them have been well loved and it is time for them to retire. Since there is no old-folks home for teddy bears they are given to collectors, or a museum to sit comfortably and be admired. Greenfield Village and the Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan, is one of the museums where a teddy bear may live his life in peace. This museum has hundreds of items on exhibit. There are several antique exhibits that include some of the first teddy bears ever made. Be sure and see all of the... 

What is a spinning jenny? The spinning jenny is actually a spinning wheel that has more than one spool. It was created by James Hargreaves back in 1764 in the area of Stanhill, specifically Blackburn in Lancashire, which can be located in the Northwestern part of England. This device dramatically decreased the amount of time and work that a particular person actually needed in order to come up with a yarn product. Without the spinning jenny, one worker needs to work with more than eight spools at once. Its origin The idea started off with a metal frame that has eight spindles...