Debut
Judy Senk has transformed her childhood sewing skills and love of things old into wonderfully unique art. Her creative use of vintage fabrics and antique accessories has made her one of America’s most beloved bear makers.
Her basics in sewing began in a local 4-H group at the age 10. Judy was so taken by what one could create with a simple needle and thread, she continued to hone her skills throughout school. As an adult, Judy and her sister began designing and producing costumes for their local theatre group. Word of mouth spread quickly and they soon found themselves creating a complete collection of Bi-Centennial outfits that were used for their city’s celebration event. She also began attending local bazaars with some of her handmade creations including soft animals, pillows, and aprons. Her “side” business was doing very well. That was, until “bears” took over.
Judy’s love affair with bears began in the early 80’s, about the same time as the rest of the country. She began to try her hand at very simple bear designs. The learning curve for Judy was small, thanks to her advanced sewing skills. The response she received was overwhelming and in 1988, Judy quit her “full time” job at the daily newspaper and pursued her newfound love, designing teddy bears.
While she explored different techniques and designs, Judy always came back to her original, authentic bear designs. But, as the price of mohair skyrocketed, she started to experiment with the use of other materials. Her friend, an Auctioneer in West Virginia, suggested she take a look at some of the items she had available including old sleigh blankets, oil cloth and army blankets. Judy loved the idea of taking something old and making it new again. Since then, she makes it a point to include vintage items in most of the bears she creates.
In 1991, Judy was honored by being in the first group of American teddy bear artists selected to visit and exhibit their work in Germany and Holland. A charter member of the Teddy Bear Artist Association, Judy has been featured in “Teddy Bear Review” magazine and has been noted in several issues of “Teddy Bears and Friends.”
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"Great Greenhall" Bear
Stuff'd Stuff
