The Role of Seasonal Themes in Muffy & Hoppy Bear Sets

Part of what makes Muffy VanderBear and Hoppy Rabbit so enchanting is the way they reflect the passing of the seasons. Instead of remaining the same throughout the year, they change costumes and take on roles that celebrate holidays and special times. This focus on seasonal themes has helped them capture the imagination of collectors… Read more »

Why Hoppy Rabbit Is More Than Just a Sidekick

At first glance, many collectors assume that Hoppy Rabbit was created simply to be an accessory for Muffy VanderBear. She appeared as a smaller companion and often accompanied Muffy in seasonal outfits or charming scenes. Yet over the years, Hoppy has grown into a celebrated collectible of her own. She carries a distinct personality, a… Read more »

The World of Muffy & Hoppy: The Story Behind the Beloved Bear Duo

Few names in the world of collectible bears inspire the same affection as Muffy VanderBear and Hoppy Rabbit. These two characters are more than plush toys. They represent a tradition of storytelling, artistry, and seasonal charm that has captured the imagination of collectors for decades. At Gigi’s Dolls & Sherry’s Teddy Bears, we have seen… Read more »

Caring for Your Steiff Bear: Storage, Cleaning, and Long-Term Preservation

A Steiff bear is more than a toy—it’s part of a tradition that has been loved for over a hundred years. Whether you own a brand-new limited edition or a century-old classic, keeping your bear safe and well cared for ensures it can be enjoyed for generations. Collectors often say that Steiff bears feel alive,… Read more »

What Sets Steiff Bears Apart from Other Collectible Teddy Bears

There are plenty of teddy bears in the world, but there’s something instantly recognizable about a Steiff. Collectors know it, children know it, and even people who don’t consider themselves “into bears” often pause when they see that familiar button in ear. Steiff has been setting the standard for over a century, and while many… Read more »

Understanding the Steiff Tagging System: Buttons, Tags, and What They Mean

When people think of Steiff Bears, the first image that usually comes to mind is the little button shining in the bear’s ear. It’s a detail so iconic that collectors all over the world rely on it as a sign of authenticity. But there’s more to Steiff’s tagging system than just the button. Over the… Read more »

Steiff Bears: A Collector’s Guide to the World’s Most Iconic Teddy Bears

There are teddy bears, and then there are Steiff bears. For generations, these charming companions have captured hearts around the world, standing as the ultimate symbol of quality, history, and craftsmanship. From their humble beginnings in Germany to their status as the most sought-after teddy bears on the planet, Steiff has built a reputation that… Read more »

How Robert Tonner Collaborated with Pop Culture Franchises

One of the things that made Robert Tonner such a standout in the doll world was his ability to take well-loved characters from movies, books, and comics and reimagine them with his own artistic touch. He didn’t just copy a costume or a face—he captured the spirit of each character, all while keeping the elegance… Read more »

How to Authenticate and Date Vintage Robert Tonner Dolls

If you’ve ever come across a beautiful Robert Tonner doll at a show, in an estate collection, or tucked away on a forgotten shelf, you might’ve wondered: Is it the real deal? When it comes to vintage Tonner dolls, knowing how to properly authenticate and date them is key—not just for understanding value, but for… Read more »