07/06/2026
This memory bear was one of the most challenging projects I’ve worked on.
The original wedding dress was heavily stained throughout, making it difficult to find suitable areas of the outer fabric to use. Every piece had to be carefully planned to preserve as many of the dress’s special features as possible.
The bear features the original corset-style lacing on the back, recreated from the wedding gown’s own fastening. The beautiful detailing from the neckline, sleeves, back, were carefully removed from the stained fabric and hand-stitched into its new positions on the bear.
The wedding dress originally had a pleated wrap-around effect on the skirt, which I’ve echoed with pleats to one side of the bear’s skirt. To complete the look, I incorporated the original diamond-shaped embellishment from the gown as a finishing detail.
Despite the condition of the dress, I was able to preserve many of the elements that made it unique, transforming a cherished wedding gown into a keepsake that can be treasured for years to come. ❤️🐻
WeddingDressKeepsake