Large Cuddly Teddy Bear

A teddy bear is judged on two things: how it feels and how its face is made. This one uses a dense soft plush that holds its pile rather than matting after a few weeks, and the features are stitched and secured rather than glued on, which is what keeps a bear looking like itself after a year of handling.

Several sizes are offered, from something a small child can carry to a bear that occupies an armchair. The larger sizes are bought as much for adults as for children, and they hold their shape when leaned against rather than slumping into a heap.

The filling is evenly distributed so the limbs stay soft and the body keeps its form. Surface wash and air dry rather than machine washing the larger sizes, which will not dry through properly. Check the age guidance on the packaging before giving it to a very young child, and inspect the seams and features periodically for wear, replacing the toy if anything works loose.

• Dense soft plush that resists matting
• Stitched and secured features, not glued
• Several sizes from carry-size to armchair-size
• Evenly distributed filling that holds its shape
• Check packaging age guidance; inspect seams periodically