5 Common Memory Bear Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Avoid these pitfalls to create a bear you'll truly be proud of.

Making a memory bear is a special project but can be a big learning curve too. Over the years, I've seen a few common mistakes that can really effect the final result, often leaving maker feeling frustrated or deflated. 

Whether you’re just getting started or have already made a few bears, these are five of the most common issues I see, along with my best advice for how to avoid them.

1. Understuffing Your Bear

This one makes such a difference to the final look and feel of your bear. A well-stuffed bear doesn’t just feel better in your hands, it holds its shape, sits better, and gives a far more professional finish.

Make sure you're using a good quality toy stuffing (not the cheap stuff that goes flat or clumps). I recommend this one for a soft, smooth finish that lasts.

Take your time when stuffing, use small amounts and push them deep into the seams and limbs. Think of your stuffing as a tool to help shape and sculpt your bear. Full limbs and a firmly packed body make all the difference.

2. Skipping the Interfacing (or Choosing the Wrong One)

I can’t stress this enough: interfacing matters.

If you're using lightweight or stretchy clothing fabrics, which most memory bears do, you need a good quality woven fusible interfacing. It stabilises the fabric, stops it from warping or stretching, and ensures your bear keeps its intended shape.

I always recommend this woven interfacing. It’s the one I use in my own samples, even when I might get away without it, it just gives me peace of mind knowing my fabric is properly supported.

If you skip this step or use a flimsy interfacing, it can tear whilst you're stuffing or turning your bear, it may also look saggy, misshapen or just… a bit sad. It’s not worth the risk, use the good stuff.

3. Not Following the Instructions Properly

You’d be surprised how often I see this. Makers skipping over steps, guessing at construction methods, or substituting materials and then wondering why their bear isn’t coming together properly.

Each pattern is carefully designed and tested, and the instructions are written to guide you through the process with the best results in mind. That includes things like:

• Detailed instructions

• Specific seam allowances

• Even recommended eye sizes

It all affects the final look. Trust the process, and read through your instructions before you begin, it really will give you a more polished bear.

4. Poor Fabric Placement

Fabric placement can make or break the design.

Before you cut, take time to plan where each piece of fabric will go. Ask yourself:

• Does the fabric’s print suit this part of the bear?

• Will it look better on the tummy, paws, ears, or head?

• Am I using patterned pieces too close together?

If you’re using stripes, try your best to align them across seams for a more thoughtful finish. This takes time, but it makes your bear look more considered and less “thrown together.”

To help with this, I’ve created fabric placement planners which you can print and sketch onto. These are a game-changer when working with sentimental garments.

5. Buying Patterns from Untrusted Sources

I know it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, but unfortunately, many of the low-cost patterns out there are cobbled together from multiple designs, often without permission. The result? You get a pattern that doesn’t make sense, instructions that are vague or missing entirely, and a bear that doesn’t look anything like the photo.

When you buy directly from trusted designers, you’re not just supporting small creative businesses, you’re getting:

• Clear instructions

• Accurate templates

• Real examples made from that pattern

• Support if you get stuck

If something feels “off” with a bargain pattern, there’s usually a reason. Protect your time, effort, and memories by choosing a reputable source.

Making a memory bear is more than just sewing 

It’s preserving a piece of someone’s story. Every decision you make, from the stuffing to the pattern, shapes the outcome.

So take your time, trust the instructions, and invest in good quality materials. Your future self (and the person receiving the bear) will thank you.

Looking for recommended materials?
👉 My favourite toy stuffing (affiliate link)
👉 My go-to interfacing (affiliate link)
👉 Download the fabric placement planner

Want to get started on the right foot? Check out my tried and tested patterns:
🧸 Barnaby Bear Pattern – a traditional jointed bear
🧸 Bertie Bear Pattern – a beginner-friendly version without joints