Welcome to Bare Cub Designs
A creative world of artist designed bears and slow stitching, for makers.
A place to breathe. A place to create. A place to come home to yourself.
At Bare Cub Designs, everything begins with softness — soft hands, soft hearts, soft moments of creativity that feel like a deep exhale.
Whether you’re here to adopt a bear, learn to make your own, or simply wander through a world of gentle inspiration, you’re welcome in this space.
This is a home for women who crave calm, beauty, and the quiet joy of making something with their hands.
Beauty in Bear Making
The Online Bear‑Making Studio
A self‑paced online studio for women who want to create teddy bears.
If you’ve longed to make a bear but didn’t know where to begin… If you’re craving a slow, grounding creative practice… If you want to learn techniques that feel both achievable and magical…
This studio was made for you.
Meet the Bears
Each bear cub is crafted slowly and intentionally, with expressive scissor sculpted cheeks for that signature soft look.
They’re created for collectors who recognise beauty, and wish to have more of it.
Bear Beautiful Magazine
A creative publication for bear makers and collectors.
Inside each issue you’ll find: – sweet little tutorials – behind‑the‑scenes studio notes – creative inspiration – interviews and features – patterns and techniques
A beautiful companion for your slow‑making journey.
Bear Basics & Beyond
Your essential guide to the foundations of bear making.
This book walks you through the basics with clarity, warmth, and step‑by‑step guidance — perfect for beginners or anyone returning to the craft.
Slow Creative Living
A newsletter for women who crave softness, creativity, and calm.
Stories, reflections, creative prompts, and behind‑the‑scenes notes from the studio — delivered with warmth and intention.
Meet Helen
Artist. Maker. Guide.
I’m Helen — the designer behind Bare Cub Designs. For more than 20 years, I’ve been creating bears.
I believe creativity should feel like coming home. Soft. Nourishing. Restorative.
Bare Cub Designs is my way of sharing that softness with you.
Ready to begin your bear‑making journey?
Join Beauty in Bear Making, an online studio for women who are ready to create something beautiful with their hands.
Stay Connected
Updates, creative inspiration, and early access to new bears!
A soft little note from the studio — just when you need it.
Contact Helen
I’d love to hear from you - feel free to contact me and start a conversation