I believe in the power of the teddy bear! I've always been a collector, but having been raised at the foot of moms sewing machine, it would seem that I was destined to put the two together. I don't think of myself as an "Artist", but refer to myself as a "Teddyologist" because my efforts have been more involved as a student of teddy bear history, art, design and technique, as a means of self-education in the fine art of "bruinism"...an evolution without end.

The bears I craft are made of the finest mohair and alpaca from Germany and England, with German or Austrian glass eyes which I occasionally stain. I like using wobble and double joints as they can add so much to a bears demeanor and expression. All have embroidered noses and/or other features, and each one sports a bronze logo medallion over their heart.

I love making theme bears and get lost in the details of costuming. These are my most special pieces and parting with them is often difficult as they take longer to complete and so much of me goes into them.

Why "Hugs"? I once took an ethics class and on the first night the professor stood before us fielding questions. One student asked, "What about hugs?" The professor vehemently roared, "There is no room in the workplace for hugs!" I was somewhat offended and realized how lucky I am to live and work in a much friendlier world than she. Thus it became the roaring professor who solidified my company name! Besides, who among us hasn't referred to our collections as a "hug"? It just seemed like the perfect fit!

-Pat Kapral

Teddyologist