South Burnett’s Eleanora Skuse holds teddy bear making workshops

After almost a decade hiatus from doing what she loves most, a South Burnett great grandmother is excited to inspire the next generation in all things stitching and crafting.

The South Burnett’s Eleanora Skuse will resume teddy bear making workshops.

It’s taken 10 years, but South Burnett great grandmother Eleanora Skuse has finally returned to doing what she loves best in the South Burnett region.

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Ms Skuse began teaching the intricate art of teddy bear making in 2004, where she had over 2000 guests at her teddy bear convention at Wondai.

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Shortly after, the 74 year old was diagnosed with a condition causing widespread muscle pain and tenderness and was unable continue her passion.

In March, Ms Skuse will return to her workshops where 20 per cent of profits will be donated to families in the community who are struggling financially.

The former teacher said each bear took 40 hours to make and students could choose from artificial, mohair and alpaca fur.

Ms Skuse said the two essentials are a sharp pair of scissors and a preferred needle.

“The starting price is $25 and goes up depending on the size of the bear and what fur is chosen, we have lots of different colours,” Ms Skuse said.

“They make the bear from scratch by learning how to design, draft, cut, sew, join and then stuff it.

“They put their eyes in teddy bear button on the bottom of it so they know it’s theirs, we also have birth certificates.

“Seeing the kids with the teddy bears they’ve made and love is something very special, it’s something they can teach their kids.”

Mrs Skuse has taught children as young as seven to stitch, as well as children with disabilities.

“I give the children homework for the next fortnight’s class, by that time they will be ready to said she gives children teddy bear homework and at the second session they are expected to be ready to stitch the fully movable joints to the bear’s body,” Ms Skuse said.

The free sessions will begin on March 15-17 in Runnymede from 10am–2pm with a light lunch and tea and coffee included.

Guests only have to purchase their desired bear kit.

Ms Skuse said the two essentials for crafting were a sharp pair of scissors and a preferred needle.