In the self-described "out in the middle of nowhere," Erin Roy of
Bears *n* Bling enjoys the rolling hills, forest and creek that run through her beautiful property in Wellandport, Ontario, Canada.
"It is the perfect setting for relaxing and creating."
Erin grew up less than 15 minutes away in the outskirts of Binbrook where her parents still live today.
"I could never be far away from them," she remarked.
Erin's childhood was filled with music. She began playing the piano when she was five. She won many competitions throughout her childhood and teen years. She continued to pursue her music, eventually earning
a degree in music at McMaster University where she learned to play most instruments. She later earned her Bachelor of Education teaching degree.
So you might ask, how did she get started in making bears? "Well, I
have always loved teddy bears and when a serious health issue caused me to lose my job, every day became a struggle."
She tried to stay positive and pass the time at home by researching and collecting antique bears.
"After all, who doesn't feel better with a teddy bear to cuddle; or two or three bears!"
One night, while searching for another bear to add to her "hug," a very special listing on eBay caught her eye.
"Make your own antique teddy bear." She was intrigued, so she bought the kit and waited patiently for it to arrive. Having never picked up a needle and thread before, she was a bit apprehensive.
And so, Tuck was born. "Poor little Tuck was my first attempt at sewing. He had an under stuffed nose, exposed stitching and loose little eyes, but I loved him to bits and he was the reason I became hooked."
Since that day, Erin has spent almost every day designing and creating furry little creatures; taking their photos and writing little stores for each.
"Making bears changed my life."
Erin went from buying kits, to purchasing numerous patterns and
supplies to eventually designing her own bears.
"This made them more "me." After a few months, I was getting positive feedback from my family and they suggested that I sell my bears on eBay. I think my husband was just getting tired of them being everywhere!" |