Barton's Creek Collection

Karen Mayer, Artist

Karen Mayer, the eldest of five children, grew up in a loving family in Parkview, N.J.  Her mom, Mary Beth, was involved in the arts and encouraged the children to explore their creative side.  Through this support from her mom, Karen began her love for sewing and knitting.

Karen began making bears for her family's traditional Christmas gatherings.  Hand knitted apparel, crocheted items, and all kinds of hand crafted sewn works of art were shared by all.  Karen's sister suggested they make hand crafted bears for the family's next Christmas presents.  Karen quickly began gathering materials, designing patterns and sewing bunnies and bears and stuffing them with love.  It was at that moment that Karen's love for bear making flourished.  

Karen's husband, four children and two grandchildren are among her greatest supporters.  They love the trips to Disney where Karen enjoys the spotlight with other talented Teddy Bear and Doll Artists invented to the Disney Teddy Bear and Doll Convention.

Her inspirations come from her loving family.  She does not work alone.  Her helper is the family dog,  Jasper, who stays by her side until the creations are finished.  However, he occasionally has been known to run away with a furry friend if Karen isn't watching.

Teddy Bear making has enriched Karen's life by seeing the joy and smiles her creations bring to her customers.