There is a deep pleasure in being able to revive something that's worn or broken. I suppose it has something to do with an honesty of materials, labor, and a love of craft, alongside the desire to "make do"—a sentiment that seems to have diminished within my lifetime.
I was at a friend's house for dinner the other day, and they were talking about how much fun they have had making up dramas with their granddaughter using old hand puppets. The endless naughty adventures and sweet problem-solving that the bear and monkey get into have been a constant source of amusement for both of them. Since Bear was a little worse for wear, I offered to give him a bit of a "glow-up." Any kind of fix was very much appreciated.
So here's my new project. I've spent about 2 hours working on it, and while it's only worth about $50 online, it's been more than worth my time in sheer pleasure to fix this guy. Plus I went down the rabbit hole of looking at all the amazing Steiff Puppets created over the years. Now I'm wanting one of each, but I'm in those in-between years; my kids are way too old for puppets but far too young for children of their own so I'll be waiting a while longer. Until then... images for your pleasure from the www.
Really, there are projects that take time but give so much in return. Bringing this guy into a new era of play with my dear friend couldn't please me more. Setting him along side a few bears I just embroidered... they feel like cousins. :)
