Charlie Bears: A Brief History

Charlie Bears is a popular British collectible teddy bear company, founded in November 2005 by Charlotte (“Charlie”) and William Morris in Cornwall, England. The company is known for its charming and meticulously crafted teddy bears and other plush animals, appealing to both collectors and gift buyers alike.

The Founding Vision

Charlie and William Morris established the company with the idea of creating high-quality, affordable bears that were “bears with personalities.” Charlie had a lifelong love of teddy bears and wanted to share this passion with others. The company began modestly, with a small collection of just 12 bears launched in February 2006. These initial designs proved an instant success, selling out quickly and establishing Charlie Bears as a name to watch in the world of collectible plush toys.

Design Philosophy

The company’s ethos centres on creating teddy bears that are “too cute to resist,” with each piece meticulously designed to exude character and charm. Many of the bears are made from high-quality plush fabrics, and the company also offers a line of mohair bears for those seeking more traditional, heirloom-style collectibles.

Charlie Bears employs a team of in-house designers, including Charlie herself, who collaborates with renowned teddy bear artists such as Isabelle Lee. These collaborations have resulted in several unique collections, each with its own distinct style and appeal.

Key Collections

1. The Plush Collection: The heart of Charlie Bears, featuring a wide variety of designs crafted from soft, tactile materials. These bears are designed to be both affordable and collectible, making them a favourite among a wide audience.
2. Isabelle Collection: Named after Isabelle Lee, this range includes luxurious, limited-edition bears made from mohair and alpaca. These are often hand-finished, making each piece unique.
3. Minimos: A range of miniature collectible bears, typically around 6 inches tall, crafted from fine materials like mohair.
4. Bearhouse Bears: A more affordable range aimed at younger collectors or those new to the hobby. These non-jointed bears are designed to be child-friendly.

Production and Limited Editions

Charlie Bears are crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Each bear is handmade, with hand-stitched noses, expressive eyes, and unique accessories like ribbons or charms. The company often releases its bears as limited editions, heightening their desirability among collectors.

Growth and Global Appeal

Since its founding, Charlie Bears has grown exponentially, expanding its operations beyond the UK to reach collectors around the world. The brand now has a presence in over 40 countries, with a particularly strong following in Australia, the United States, and Europe.

The company’s success can also be attributed to its strong sense of community. Collectors are affectionately referred to as “Charlie Bears Best Friends” (CBFs), and the brand fosters a loyal following through regular events, exclusive club memberships, and direct communication with fans via social media and dedicated TV shopping channels.

The Gallery and Museum

In 2016, Charlie Bears opened “The Bearhouse” in Launceston, Cornwall. This gallery and museum serves as both the company’s headquarters and a hub for enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the world of Charlie Bears, view historical designs, and even meet Charlie herself during special events.

Legacy and Impact

Charlie Bears has become a beloved part of the collectible teddy bear world. The brand’s combination of whimsical design, high-quality craftsmanship, and affordability has secured its place in the hearts of collectors and gift-givers alike. With its ongoing commitment to creating “bears with personalities,” Charlie Bears continues to delight and inspire a global audience.

Here at Hornseys’, we hold a large stock of both new and vintage Charlie Bears and figures with a strong focus on the more scarce limited edition items.

Why Buy from Us?

At Hornseys, we are committed to offering items that meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection of objects and fine gifts is meticulously curated to ensure that it reflects refined taste and elegance.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Authenticity and Provenance: Every range is thoroughly researched and vetted to ensure that it meets our exacting standards.
• Expert Curation: We select each range with an eye for tastefulness, refinement, condition, and visual appeal.
• Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions to secure and prompt delivery.
• Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If you wish to make a return, any item may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for any reason. We request advance notification of returns, and items must be returned in the same condition as sent for a full refund.

Explore Our Collection:

Visit Hornseys to explore our exceptional collection of fine art, illustration, rare books, gifts and objects. Located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, our Ripon gallery has been a haven for art lovers and collectors since 1976.