A Collector' S Guide To The Care And Purchase Of Antique Teddy Bears
by Danielle Galloway
Teddy bears are endearing toys which have been around for generations. People who collect antique teddy bears are sure to find what they are looking for either online, or at an antique fair or dealer. When buying these charming toys, it's helpful to know how to find a genuine product for one's money and also how to properly care for them.
The early teddies were designed to closely resemble real bears, so one can tell approximately how old they are by their general appearance and construction. They usually have a longer snout, large feet, wider hips, and longer, curvy limbs, they also may have a hump between their shoulders. Instead of plastic, eyes are most often made out of glass or boot buttons. The fur is usually made from mohair and stuffed with wood shavings, wool, or kapok, and the body may have a hand-stitched seam.
There are helpful reference guides available to collectors which list all features to note when looking for collectible teddies. Some manufacturers and eras have signature characteristics which set them apart. These guides sometimes also list expected prices, but these are often high-end figures and it is usually possible to find them for a lower price.
It's realistic for a bear to have been repaired at some time and this doesn't have to have a negative effect on its value. Although toys in pristine condition will typically sell for more, one can still get a good price for a repaired toy in otherwise reasonable shape. Many dealers will do this to attempt to restore the toy to its original glory.
The internet has become a teddy mecca, with an enormous assortment to choose from. One must realize that there are some so-called "antique" bears being sold which are in fact newer ones that are being made to look old and priced as though they were. While their features may resemble early designs, they are normally made of plush rather than mohair, which may be "aged" to look worn out.
Another type of bear to avoid are those which are new but made in an old-fashioned style, the manufacturers are not try to pass them off as anything else, however sometimes dishonest dealers may attempt to make them look as though they are antiques and price them accordingly. Some collectors advise checking for an "aged" smell, but this is not always useful as the dealer may have cleaned the toy removing any scent.
It is best to handle these toys by their torsos rather than their limbs, as this may cause damage to the delicate joints. Since they are prized collector's items, they must also be kept away from children and pets. Limiting contact with hands is best, as the oils present in skin can cause deterioration the bear's fur.
Moths are sometimes a problem with <A href="http://bearsoftheabbey.com">antique teddy bears</A>, but this can usually be eliminated by placing the toys in the freezer overnight. Cleaning must be done with the utmost care. The bear can be gently vacuumed to remove dust and then cleaned with a sponge dampened with a solution of fabric wash or soap flakes dissolved in water. Paper towels can be used to blot up excess dampness and then the toy should be left to dry and then have its fur brushed lightly with a clean brush.
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New Unique Article!
Title: A Collector' S Guide To The Care And Purchase Of Antique Teddy Bears
Author: Danielle Galloway
Email: nathanwebster335@live.com
Keywords: fashion, clothing, celebrity, style,
Word Count: 559
Category: Hobbies
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