When people think of little ones, they think of teddy bears. Teddy bears have been a popular and much-loved gift among children for more than a hundred years. If you have a friend who is having a baby shower, consider these ideas for the perfect gift.
My Own Bear
For a twist on an old classic, look for a teddy bear that will have something in common with the new baby. For example, many toy makers can stitch Baby's name on the front pocket of the bear's vest. Other teddy bears might include an artificial gem that ties in with the baby's birthstone. You can even find a birth announcement for Baby's newest plush friend.
Shopping malls often have toy-making stores, where children and adults can construct fun and fabulous teddy bears in a variety of fur colors, sizes, eye colors, and different types of clothing. These can be surprisingly economical choice too!
Find out what Baby's parents' interests are and incorporate them into Baby's bear. For example, a motorcycle mom will love sunglasses and a leather jacket on the teddy bear, while a doctor dad will chuckle at a white coat and toy stethoscope-clad bear.
A Creative Touch
If you enjoy crafts or have a talent for knitting or sewing, consider making a teddy bear as a baby shower gift. You will find hundreds of patterns, from the simple to the simply fabulous, at your local fabric store or online.
If you choose to use fur-style fabric, make sure it's not too plush and that excess hairs don't come off easily when you handle it. You can also use various soft and comforting fabrics, such as cotton/polyester blends and terrycloth.
When you're done, decorate the bear to make it special. Put a pretty bow between the ears, or embroider Baby's name on the teddy bear's front. However, be very careful to glue and double-reinforce sew any add-ons so Baby can't pull them off.
Bear-y Pretty
Once you've made your purchase or sewn up all your stitches, wrap up your baby shower gift in decorative teddy bear paper. You can also make your own wrapping paper by cutting teddy bear shapes out of sponges.
Wet the sponges with paint and press down quickly but not too firmly. Lift the sponge straight up off the paper. Try to use a paper that is on the thick side rather than tissue or gauzy paper, as the sponge and paint could cause dimpling or tears.
You can also draw teddy bear shapes on your wrapping paper. Have your children or cousins of the new baby-to-be color them in and write their names on the bears for one piece of wrapping paper that will never be thrown away.
Another sweet baby shower idea is to tie a very small teddy onto the outside of the package. Or, buy a rattle or teething ring with a teddy bear motif and use that as the final garnish on your beautiful baby shower wrapping.
One of a grown-up's fondest memories is the teddy bear he or she had as a child. Your teddy bear baby shower gift will undoubtedly be just the beginning to another person's cherished teddy bear-inspired childhood memories.
