Handmade in Effingham, IL · Shipping Nationwide
Holding onto the stories
stitched into their favorite shirt.
Jill transforms cherished clothing into handcrafted memory bears, pillows, and quilts that keep your most precious moments close.
Custom keepsakes
Each piece is individually designed and sewn with care in my home studio using the textiles you provide.
The custom process
- 01
Choose your design
Pick the keepsake style that best honors your loved one's clothing.
- 02
Send your textiles
Ship laundered shirts or items to my home studio in Effingham, IL.
- 03
The transformation
I carefully cut, design, and sew your unique heirloom — usually within 6–8 weeks.
What customers are saying
Loved by families nationwide
Real reviews from buyers on Etsy.
“I am absolutely thrilled about this bear and have ordered more. My dad passed a couple of years back and he has two grandkids who never got to meet him. These bears, I hope, will help them feel closer to their grandfather in the sky. Thank you so much, especially for the sewn messages on the paws!”
Marisol
Verified Etsy buyer · May 2026
“Love the bear! It's so cute! Such a great gift.”
Alexis
Verified Etsy buyer · Apr 2026
“What a wonderful bear… I love it!”
Karen
Verified Etsy buyer · Apr 2026
“Thank you so much for my beautiful memory bear. The bear matched the description perfectly, and it was very easy to work with Jill. I'm looking forward to working with her again.”
MaryJo
Verified Etsy buyer · Dec 2025
“Excellent communication from seller with updates on product prior to shipping. Beautiful and special gift.”
Tatyana
Verified Etsy buyer · Nov 2025
“High quality and well made. Exactly as described and well crafted.”
Jaime
Verified Etsy buyer · Feb 2026
Meet the maker
Hi, I'm Jill.
Deer Creek Designs is my little studio in Effingham, IL — just me, a sewing machine, and stacks of cherished shirts waiting for a second life as bears, pillows, and quilts.
Every keepsake is sewn by hand, by me, and treated with the same care I'd give to my own family's heirlooms.
Read more about JillLet's create something meaningful
Reach out today to discuss your project. I'm currently accepting custom orders for the upcoming season.
Get in Touch