Your Keepsake Questions Answered
Here’s a simpler guide to some common questions about creating your special keepsake:
How much clothing should I send?
The amount of clothing needed depends on the keepsake you choose. Many customers like to use two or more items in each bear or animal, but you can send as many as you like. The more items you send, the more creative we can be!
Here’s a general guide:
- Small baby clothes (3-6 months): 8-10 items
- Medium baby clothes (6-12 months): 6-8 items
- Large baby clothes (18-24 months): 4-6 items
- Children’s clothing: 2-3 items
- Adult clothing: 1-2 items (send 2-4 items for a more varied pattern)
If you only have one item, we can usually still make a bear, though we might need to add a matching fabric. We’ll discuss all your wishes and ideas when you order to make sure your keepsake is perfect.
What if I send too much or not enough?
It’s fine to send extra clothes! Please add a note telling us which items are most important to you and if you have any preferences for their use. We can’t guarantee all items will be used. Any unused whole pieces of clothing will be returned with your finished keepsake. If you don’t send enough items, we’ll contact you. For very tiny baby clothes, please send a couple of spares.
What types of items can (and can’t) be used?
We can create keepsakes from many items like blankets, covers, and pillowcases. Thin or stretchy fabrics will be lined to help them keep their shape.
Items we generally can’t use include:
- Fur or heavy leather
- Socks, underwear, or shoes
- Thick knitted fabric or super fine scarves
- Sheer fabrics like chiffon, silk, or organza
- Very chunky loose knits
- Very thick or stiff fabric
If you’re unsure about a particular fabric, please get in touch, we’re happy to help!
How should I send my clothing?
The safest way is to pack your clothes securely in a mailing bag (they’re waterproof!) and send them by recorded delivery or a courier service that requires a signature and provides tracking. This helps prevent loss or damage. You’ll receive postage instructions in your order confirmation email. Please double-check your contact details are correct!
Can I order more than one keepsake?
Absolutely! If you order multiple keepsakes and want specific clothes for each, please separate the clothing into bags with a note for each keepsake. If you don’t mind which clothes are used or want a mix for all keepsakes, you can send them together with a note. Just add all the products to your cart and check out.
Do you offer discounts?
Thank you for your interest! Each keepsake is crafted with significant time and effort, so we’re unable to offer discounts at this time. We believe our prices reflect the value and craftsmanship of every piece.
What condition do the clothes need to be in?
Most clothes can be used, even if they’re a bit worn. However, we generally can’t use clothes with many holes or severe stains, unless that’s specifically what you want. We’ll try to avoid small stains or tears. Keep in mind, the more worn an item is, the less durable the final keepsake might be. If an item is in poor condition, too worn, or unclean and might affect the quality, we’ll let you know.
What is the turnaround time?
Our standard turnaround is 4-6 weeks from the date we receive your clothing. If you need an item by a specific date, please give us at least two weeks’ notice. Larger orders may take longer. If there’s high demand, we’ll let you know about any potential delays and give you a realistic completion date. We’ll keep you updated throughout the process! These are unique, handmade items, so they do take time.
What other materials are used in the bears?
We use glass eyes and button joints (if chosen). Noses can be embroidered, a safety nose, a fabric nose, or a felt nose. For stuffing, we use high-grade 100% Polyester hollow fiber. We also use 100% Cotton Woven brushed interfacing to help fabrics keep their shape.
Can my keepsakes be personalized?
Yes! We offer machine embroidery. Please contact us to discuss your ideas before ordering.
Can I have leftover clothing returned?
Yes, if you specifically ask for any fabric remnants back, we’ll send them with your finished keepsake.
Do I need to decide exactly where each clothing item goes on the bear?
If you’re using several items, you can include a note with your design ideas, or you can leave it to us to create something special! Memory bears and animals can be made from almost any material, not just clothes – even dog blankets, pillowcases, scarves, or tablecloths!
Can I return an item?
No, unfortunately, we can’t accept returns as these are completely custom-made items. Because we use a variety of fabrics, the final keepsake may look slightly different from examples shown. Please keep this in mind before ordering.
PRODUCT & SAFETY INFORMATION (DISCLAIMER)
Can I give a memory bear / animal to a child as a toy? *No, sorry* due to the external material been supplied by yourselves they can not be individually CE checked. By ordering from me you have agreed to have read this info and agreed that your item has been sold to you as a ornamental item only. Due to the design of them they have small buttons, tags, ribbons etc that can cause a choking hazard so they are not approved or comply with guidelines that make these items safe to be used as a toy. Some bears/animals have moving joints and these are attached with a button and thread, therefore, it needs to be treated very carefully. They must be displayed out of reach of children and not be used for play. I am not liable for any damage or misshaping caused by being played with.
Care advice – I suggest a gentle dust regularly, and a light sponge with a damp cloth if needed. Due to the delicate nature of the materials used I do not recommend washing your bear in the washing machine or by hand as they will go misshaped. I would recommend using a damp cloth with a little stain remover if they do get a stain or mark on them.
Don’t see your question? Get in touch with any questions you may have.
