Hi, my name is Janet Podell. Thank you for visiting my website! I have been creating collectible
teddy bears since 1998. It is definitely my passion. And just between you and me,
if I never sold another bear I would continue to make them because of the pleasure I get from
creating these wonderful creatures. I began designing my own bears in 2001. I started out as many
others; going to shows and witnessing first hand the incredible craftsmanship that went into handmade collectible
bears. A good friend of mine has been a bear collector for years and although I always thought
she was a little nuts, I couldn't help but smile whenever she purchased a new bear for her
collection. I have always enjoyed sewing, so one day in a fit of creativity I decided to make
a bear. I didn't know the first thing about designing back then, so I bought a commercial pattern
and set about creating my teddy. It turned out okay so I made another one. And another. And
another. And another. Before long my house was dripping in teddy bears. And there was no turning
back. I was hooked and I couldn't stop. However, because they were not of my own design, I gave
most of them away as gifts. I knew I had to learn to design my own, so……….a couple of design
classes and a lot of practice later, my creations were born. That allowed me to legitimately sell
them and continue to create bears to my hearts content. The journey has been and continues to be
incredibly rewarding. Enjoy your visit!
Bear Hugs,
Janet
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