Create an adorable 8½-inch snow bear.

Beth Phillips sits down with Sherry Shepardson of Sherr-Bear to discuss the artist’s designs and her biggest inspiration.

Florida teddy bear artist Sherry Shepardson vividly remembers her first glimpse of a grizzly bear in the wild. She and her husband, Bob, had taken a trip to Yellowstone National Park, and she spotted her first big bruin near the Grand Tetons.

Ken Yenke explains the evolution and collectibility of plush animals.

Several years ago, I wrote a feature article for Teddy Bear Review about the Hagenbeck Circus—there can be no real study about animals becoming plush toys without including a look at Karl Hagenbeck’s Animal Circus.

I have this sweet old bear who stands 9 inches tall. Can you tell me about his maker, age and value? —Anna Graber, Massillon, Ohio

Anna, you have a Japanese KAMAR teddy dating from the late 1950s and early 1960s. This little bear was one of the most popular imports from Japan at the time, selling for little more than a dollar. Today, in great condition, they bring $75 or more.