I bought my own Build-A-Bear machine on Amazon – it cost less than one visit to the shop and you can make multiple toys

The Sun

a day ago

MANY people have a fond memory of going to Build-A-Bear as a child to make a personalised teddy bear.
However, one mum shared how she found an official home kit on Amazon which meant she could make multiple bears at home with her kids.
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Kristin Miller bought the Build-A-Bear Workshop Toy Stuffing Station on the online retailer, where it is currently listed for £39.84.
In a clip on her @kristinnicolemiller_ account, she wrote: 'My favourite kids' find ever.
'This is my new go-to gift idea for kids!! Sooo cute yall.'
This home stuffing station is a mini version of the real one at Build-A-Bear Workshop, giving kids the full experience of building their own bear—all from the comfort of home.
It features an easy-to-use push-pump handle that fills your bear with fluff, while the secure nozzle keeps everything in place as your cuddly companion comes to life.
After adding the sweet heart inside, your bear will be created and you can dress it in the outfit that comes with the pack.
There is even a birth certificate to document the arrival of your furry friend.
The kit comes with two unstuffed bears, ready to make into sweet cuddly toys for your child, however you can get additional bears to stuff for £12.91 from Amazon.
The price of a classic Build-A-Bear varies depending on the size and type of toy, but a classic toy costs £25, meaning you'd typically have to fork out £50 for two.
The at-home kit could save you some cash, and also be a great way to keep children entertained at home on special occasions.
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Many people were hugely impressed at the kit, with one saying: 'This is the best thing ever!!! I am going there tomorrow and definitely gonna pick this up for Christmas gift for my 2 girls!!!'
Another added: 'I had this growing up and have been looking for it for my kids. THANK YOU!!!'
And a third commented: 'Saving this and getting it for my niece this Christmas.'
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PAY YOUR AGE
Build-a-Bear's "pay your age" scheme means you pay your child's age for a bear on their birthday.
You can grab the discount in your birthday month and for a bear that would normally cost £14, rather than on any toy which can cost up to £50.
So if your child is turning seven, then you'll only need to pay £7 for the toy.
The minimum payment is £1 though so if your baby is under one-year-old then you'll still have to fork out a quid.
The Pay Your Age birthday month offer is available in stores only to Build-A-Bear Bonus Club members, but it's free to enrol.
What to watch out for when buying toys online
HERE are the British Toy and Hobby Association's top tips for buying toys online:
Shop early. Don't leave purchases to the last minute rush which might leave you fewer options of where to buy from.
Check out third-party sellers. Look for sellers you recognise and trust. Be cautious of retailers you don't know and do your research checking reviews and where they're based.
Go for branded toys. Try and choose a branded toy as then you can compare it to the manufacturer's own website to check it's legit.
Be careful of going for the cheapest price. If something looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Check if there are any age restrictions. Make sure you give suitable toys to children based on their age.
Check reviews carefully. Some reviews are fake so look carefully at the comments.
Stay with children at first. When your child opens a toy for the first time, stay with them and check for faults, detachable small parts, access to stuffing and loose or accessible batteries or magnets.