Category: Teddy Bears

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

Early Wool 1920's Steiff Bear on Wheels, Button in Ear-13005

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

Vintage 1920's Mohair Steiff Bear w/Underscored F Button in Ear

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

Steiff Bear collection from Gigi's Dolls

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

Steiff Bear Collector teddy bear from Gigi's Dolls

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 Old is My Antique Teddy Bear?

So, you’ve cleaned out your attic and found the teddy bear passed down to you from your great grandma. Or you spotted an aged-looking teddy bear at the flea market and bought it for a steal. Now you want to know—how old is it? Maybe you’re trying to figure out how much your bear is… Read more »

Should I Repair or Replace My Antique Teddy Bear?

Integrity Mothership Dania Zarr RETROFUTURE IT Exclusive-15368

One of a child’s most beloved items is his or her teddy bear. In many ways, it’s a child’s first friend, right? He or she talks to it like it’s a person, takes it everywhere, and even tries to feed it or give it a sip of some drink– hopefully water, so it’s easier for… Read more »

The Continued Legacy of Steiff Bears

Integrity In Control Erin Salston -0

If you see the name Steiff associated with toys, and, in particular, stuffed bears, you should know about Margarete Steiff. Despite having polio and being confined to a wheelchair, she founded the company that bears her family name… and it has become the world’s premier manufacturer of high-end toys and collectibles– a luxury toy brand… Read more »

Why We Love Teddy Bears

Integrity Cool Breeze Dalpinder Chowdhury (pre-order)-15191

In real life, people are taught to steer clear of bears. If you go to Yellowstone National Park in  Wyoming, and you’re like most tourists, you’ll want to be on the lookout for bears roaming around– if you do see them, you’re advised to keep your distance and not egg them on. They sell a… Read more »

The Interesting History of Teddy Bears

One of the few items an adult may keep from his or her childhood is… their teddy bear. For many people, their teddy bear is one of their first inanimate-but-important friends. Sure, they’re stuffed, don’t speak, and don’t move, but they’re also–generally–cute and cuddly. How many of you have ever hugged a teddy bear? They’re… Read more »

A History of Raikes Bears

Raikes Bears are a bit different from the traditional teddy bear. Instead of a soft face made of fabric and stuffing, Raikes Bears have a distinctive look with their carved wooden faces. A popular choice for many years, may be wondering why these bears can’t be found in the toy store still today. Let’s explore… Read more »

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