Because customizing your own bear is fun…
I saw this idea on TikTok and thought it would be a good challenge to see if I could do this for under $10.
Basically, go to the thrift store and up-cycle it!
Let’s Get Into It:
Finding bears at the thrift store
Think of it like adopting a new bear friend, the thrift stores have so many teddy bears!
Sooo many!
From Squishmallows to original Build-A-Bear Workshop animals, there are so many to choose from!
Why custom-make a bear from the thrift?
It’s often cheaper and a good way to create a unique bear that cannot be easily sourced.
You can even personalize it with old jewelry, clothing, and accessories!
Finding the bear
I typically find original Build-A-Bear Workshop animals at Value World in Michigan. It’s a local resale shop that sells clothing, toys, home decorations, and accessories!
In their toy session, they have a variety of bears to choose from, whether it’s an original Build-A-Bear Workshop anima or a bear that can fit baby clothes.
Okay, I know… what are you thinking?
What about the babies?
I promise you it’s okay to be mindful of your choices and seek clothing that is not overly expensive or in the best shape and save the “good” clothing for the babies.
How much was the bear?
$1.91
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The clothing
Baby clothing ranges from less than a $1 to at least $6 if it’s a full outfit. I tried to find the cheapest items because I wanted to be cautious of the price and also leave the clothing for parents who may really need to shop for their real baby!
So I settled for worn MSU onesies and denim jeggings!
Her zero-to-three-month pair of jeggings is a little “high-waisted” but the perfect fit! Plus, they were half off!
Omg, I totally didn’t mention her name. It’s “Jovi Bay”. (I made it up, I don’t know)
Anyway, Jovi’s denim jeggings are a little high on her, but who doesn’t love a good pair of jeggings!
For the top, I went with an MSU onesie because “I love my mommy and daddy” onesie just didn’t seem right!
How much were the jeggings?
$1.40
How much were the onesies?
$2.20 each
I also got a pair of pink leggings because they were $1.10!
Before I added my special touches, this came out to be about $8.80!
Customizing Jovi Bay
I want Jovi Bay to be cool, so I added a few personal touches. A nose ring, some jewelry and a chain belt!
This way, she’s not the typical bear. She’s a cool bear.
Adding your own personal flair is a great way to make the bear more interesting and unique to you.
Yes, she has on Ray Ban glasses lol
The look
Did I have a photoshoot for my bear?
Yes.
Because she’s cool! This was me adding my flair to the bear, giving her a “Chandra makeover”!
I had a lot of fun with this! The bandana was the perfect final touch.
Custom bear era
I think this is a fun project to do with friends, especially with the customizing part! You can have a “custom bear party” lol!
You can plan it as a date at the thrift store!
It can also be an outing for you to take your child to the thrift and let them pick out jewelry, clothing, and shoes! My first original Build-A-Bear was from Value World and I remember being very excited to finally find one!
Just remember to wash the bear and its clothing when you get home!
While you’re developing the “Total You” why not have a bear to comfort you in the process!
Let’s Talk About It
Are you going to customize a bear from the thrift?