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Hazel

Questions & answers

Frequently asked questions

Here are the things people most often ask me. If your question isn’t answered here, please don’t hesitate to get in touch — I’m always happy to help.

How long does it take to make a keepsake?

Most keepsakes take around three weeks once I have your items, because every piece is made by hand by me alone. If you’re working to an urgent deadline, such as a funeral, please get in touch and I’ll do my very best to help.

Can I post my items, or do I have to come in person?

Both work beautifully. You’re welcome to drop your items off with me here in Newcastle, or post them to me from anywhere in the UK. Whichever you choose, your clothing is treated with the same care.

How many items of clothing do I need?

It depends on the keepsake and its size. [CONFIRM — Hazel’s guidance on how many items are needed per piece/size.] As a rough idea, a single shirt or cardigan is often plenty for a bear. Just ask me and I’ll let you know exactly what works for your idea.

How big are the bears, and what sizes can I have?

I make keepsakes in more than one size to suit your clothing and your wishes. [CONFIRM — exact bear sizes and options.] Tell me what you have in mind when you message me, and I’ll talk you through the sizes available.

What fabrics work best?

Lots of everyday garments work wonderfully — shirts, cardigans, dressing gowns and soft jumpers among them. [CONFIRM — Hazel’s guidance on which fabrics work best and any that don’t.] If you’re unsure about a particular item, send me a photo and I’ll advise.

What happens to any leftover fabric?

I only ever cut what I need to make your keepsake, and I treat every scrap of your clothing as precious. [CONFIRM — what happens to leftover fabric.] Just ask when you get in touch and I’ll tell you exactly what I do.

Can you make an animal that isn’t a bear?

Yes — if you can imagine it, I’ll do my best to make it. Bears are the most popular, but I’ve made all sorts from scratch, including an axolotl and a tortoise. Just describe what you’d love and we’ll go from there.

How do I pay, and what does it cost?

Pricing depends on the keepsake, its size and the work involved. [CONFIRM — Hazel’s pricing and payment approach.] When you get in touch with your idea, I’ll give you a clear price before anything is made, so there are no surprises.

What if my items get lost or damaged in the post?

I know this worry well. I’d always suggest posting with a tracked and insured service, such as Royal Mail Special Delivery, so your parcel is protected and you can follow it to my door — and I’ll let you know the moment it arrives. Once your items are with me, they’re looked after with the greatest care until they’re back in your hands. There’s a full guide on posting safely on my How It Works page.

Can I see it before it’s finished?

Of course. I’m always happy to share photos and little updates as your keepsake takes shape, so you’re never left wondering. If there’s anything you’d like to change along the way, just tell me — this is your keepsake, and I want it to feel exactly right.

The clothing is worn, stained or has holes — is that still okay?

Absolutely. Those marks are part of the story, and they don’t bother me at all. I work around worn patches and gentle wear all the time, and I’ll always make the most of the fabric you have. If you’re unsure, send me a photo and I’ll happily take a look.

Is it strange to want a keepsake like this?

Not in the slightest. Wanting to hold on to someone you love is the most natural thing in the world — it’s exactly why I began making these, after losing my own dad. There’s no wrong reason to want a keepsake, and no feeling you need to explain to me.

Can you make a keepsake for a beloved pet?

Yes, with all my heart. A pet’s blanket, collar or favourite bit of bedding can become a soft keepsake to hold on to. Tell me about your companion and what you have, and we’ll find a gentle way to remember them together.

Still have a question?

Ask me anything — there’s no such thing as a silly question, and there’s no pressure to commit to anything.