A handmade cottage: A little brown bear saves a mad man knitter

Look who just popped into existence ... I made a little brown bear!!

He doesn't have a name as yet, so for now let's call him 'Bobo bear.' I made him for a friends baby and he's the second one I've made. I admit his arms are little long and he looks more 'mouse' than bear but there's no such thing as perfection after all. Aside from being impossibly cute, this bear comes with a heartwarming story ....

Photograph by Mad Man Knitting

I came across a blog some time ago called Mad Man Knitting, which is written by a man named Gregory Patrick. His loyal following confirms that he well loved, and while I don't know Gregory personally, I feel like I've come to know him through his blog.

Photograph by Mad Man Knitting

Gregory came upon hard times and was made homeless. With no car, home or money he threw himself into knitting to keep his mind occupied. He then began selling his bears which enabled him to survive, and pay his rent.

Photograph by Mad Man Knitting

I've always loved handmade toys. You can buy cheaper toys from your local supermarket ... but bears like this are made with love and should be treasured. They come with a story and a soul. These little bears kept Gregory alive in his darkest of times and continue to help him thrive today.

Gregory hanging with his homeboys ... or homebears? :-)

Should you want to buy a special gift for a youngster consider one of

Gregory's lovely hand-knitted bears. Please note Gregory is based in the US so there will be P&P if you're in the UK. Also note he is one man, handknitting each bear himself takes time so there could be a little waiting time, but be patient, it will be worth it the wait.

Gregory Patricks Beautiful Bears

£26 ($40)

Granted ... mine looks more 'mouse' than bear :-)

Should you want to buy the pattern so you can make you own you can do so do so below! Once you have it, you can make as many bears as you like! From one ball of fishermans wool I've made two bears so far, and there's plenty left for a third, and possible a forth?!