Teddy bear artist Lyn Wilson began making miniature teddy bears as a hobby to pass the time while her baby (who is now twenty-two) was in hospital. As her children grew this hobby became a business, with the teddy bears being created in between gymnastics, dancing and swimming lessons. In this time Lyn’s bears have grown as well, developing from flat, simple bears made with felt to fur bears dressed in embroidered dresses with moving arms, legs and heads.

So far Lyn has designed over 200 styles of bears and animals including ballerinas, elephants, wizards, clowns, mermaids and dragons. The inspiration for these bears comes from pictures, the occasional cult figure and requests from her customers.

With each idea Lyn makes a few sketches and then develops her own pattern. She then sews every bear by hand so that they are all slightly unique. On a good day Lyn can make up to ten bears.

Lyn's business has taken her to the United States and Canada where she has won first place three times at UFDC competitions and one first for her miniature bears at a Toronto Miniature Enthusiast Club show. Lyn has also presented workshops and given lectures on the history of teddy bears and toys in the United States.

As for what Lyn is making next? As yet she doesn’t know but she loves a challenge.

To challenge Lyn with a suggestion for a miniature bear email Lyn’s Tiny Corner.