This book pays attention lovingly to every tiny detail of this amazing project. You need to sit down and read it through first before doing anything practical. All the patterns you need to make it are in the middle of the book and detachable. In true Australian style the whole book is beautifully illustrated with historic vignettes, delicately colored diagrams and lush photos. It is not aimed at the coffee table market (although it will look great there), as this is 100% workbook and if you go through all the many stages you will own a bear to die for. Learn about how bears are made, work through the very clear stitch diagrams and have a go at crazy patchwork - all on one project! My favorite aspect of the book however was that you don’t have to make an heirloom item for an adult but, by changing certain parts you can make the bear safe enough for a young child. I don’t think this is a book for a beginner with no experience with of the fabric crafts used but it is ideal for a more experienced stitcher who is looking for a more advanced project. As such it makes a great present - if you can bear to part with it!  

If you cannot find patchwork fabric and threads locally try SearchPress.com for a list of suppliers.