My story
My name is Karen, maker, designer and owner of Martlet Bears.
When young, I was inspired to make rag dolls by my Grandmother who was a tailor. I continued my journey into dressmaking, design and pattern cutting, whilst bringing up my children.
I started my own business, designing and making bespoke clothing which included wedding dresses. My love of creating progressed to making my first jointed bear Colin, over 15 years ago.
After making many bears for bridal clients, friends and family over the years, I founded Martlet Bears.
My mission has always been to use and support small UK businesses, often forming a personal relationship with the companies.
Quality is important to me
Love & Care
All bespoke bears and dolls are made by using high quality bear making fur, fillings and other fabrics. These are sourced from reputable small businesses, based mainly here in the United Kingdom.
Each bear or doll develops its own character as it is being made and no two are ever identical.
Where it all began
My first bear, "Colin", was commissioned as a gift. He was dressed with a waistcoat in the same fabric as one his Formula 1 racing fan owner had.
Commissioned bears and rag dolls involve a chat about who it is for, and if there is anything special the bear or rag doll should represent i.e military service, a sports interest, career or even a favourite colour.
