What Makes a Great Memory Bear? How to Choose the Right Clothes

When you're thinking about having a memory bear made, it can be a really emotional process. Often, you’re staring at a pile of clothes that mean the absolute world to you — each one bringing back a rush of memories. And if you're anything like many of my lovely customers, you might find yourself worrying: Which clothes should I choose? What will the bear look like? Will it all match?

Here’s the truth: it’s not about matching. It’s about meaning. And you don’t need to worry about the end result — that’s where I come in. I’ll work my magic with whatever you send, but what matters most is that you pick items that take you straight back to your loved one — the clothes that make you pause, smile, cry, and remember.

Choosing Clothes for Emotional Value, Not Aesthetic. Don’t Choose for Me, Choose for You

This is the part I always say gently to my customers: don’t overthink what will "look best" on the bear. I know it’s tempting to choose the neatest, most coordinated pieces — but what’s far more important is how each item makes youfeel.

Choose the shirt they always wore when pottering in the garden. The dress you always picture them in at family events. The jumper they lived in on cold winter nights. The baby grow they came home from the hospital in. That’s what your memory bear is for — not to match, but to mean something.

It’s All in the Details

When I make a memory bear, I don’t just patch together bits of fabric. I place every piece with care, always thinking about which parts might bring the most comfort.

Sometimes it’s a pocket — where a tissue or sweet would always be tucked away. Sometimes it’s a tiny bit of a logo or a worn collar. It might seem insignificant, but when you hold your bear and spot that little detail, it brings a wave of familiarity and connection. That’s the real magic.

It Doesn’t Need to Be Perfect. It Just Needs to Be Theirs

Clothes don’t need to be in perfect condition to be used. Worn edges, faded colours, a tiny stain that tells a story — they’re all part of what made the clothes theirs. I can work around anything that’s too delicate, but don’t discount an item just because it’s a little tired. Sometimes those are the most loved and the most powerful to include.

And If You’re Not Sure What to Send...

That’s totally OK. Lots of people feel overwhelmed when they first start. If you're finding it hard to choose, lay the items out and sit with them. Pick up each piece. Close your eyes. Which ones make you feel something? Which ones bring a memory to the front of your mind?

That’s usually your answer.

And if you’re ever in doubt, you’re welcome to send me a little selection and let me choose the best pieces to include. I’ll make sure the most meaningful parts are placed thoughtfully, so that every time you look at your bear, you see more than fabric — you see them.

Creating memory bears is never just about sewing. It’s about honouring a life, capturing a story, and giving you something to hold onto when your arms feel a little too empty. So don’t worry about matching patterns or finding the “perfect” outfit.

Just send the clothes that mean the most, and I’ll take it from there.

If you are yet to book onto my waiting list for me to make you your own memory bear from your loved ones clothes then check out the deigns available here the good thing is I don't need the clothes until nearer the time so you can book onto my list and take your time to choose those clothes that mean the most to you.

With love,

Tracy x

a memory bear made from a jumper and shirts

a memory bear made from polo shirts

a memory bear made from a jumper, skirt and blouse