Describe an item you were incredibly attached to as a youth. What became of it?
Teddy bears have been my go-to source of toys and comfort since I was a little girl!
I’ve always enjoyed them, whether it was a traditional teddy with a round head and big belly or a Hello Kitty Squishmallow; they’ve always served a space in my life!
Currently, I am building a collection for my future kids! I want them to have iconic bears to cherish and pass on to the next generations.
Over time, I realized that teddy bears are just as collectible an item as magazines and books are.
I didn’t realize how obsolete Beanie Babies had become until I went to a vintage festival and saw them! I hadn’t seen them in years and it made me realize they aren’t as popular anymore but are now considered “vintage”.
When I thrift, I try to find ones with the original TY tag still on them, or at least unique ones like the one I recently got from the thrift. It’s an “I Love Washington DC” edition.
Beanie Babies are a unique bear that often showcased states, years and monumental moments that were special and popular at the time.
I think that’s what makes them such an iconic bear. It also made having personalized bears cool as well, making it not just a regular teddy.
Just like Build-A-Bears, they are custom bears that have meaning, purpose, and carry value and love.
Teddy bears will forever have my heart and I will continue to collect them and add to my collection!
Seeking a teddy bear DIY? Check out my latest thrift flip on how to source bears and customize them!
-C.Alilijah