A LOVE AFFAIR WITH TEDDY BEARS

       Samorn Wongmathanukroh's life has revolved around bears, both big and small, for decades and her passion for the animals is still burning strong.The bear that's won her heart more than others is no ordinary bear.
       "I fall in love with teddy bears, not real ones with flesh and blood," the bear lover said."To me, a teddy bear is so cute and I like a chubby one. Over the years, I've spent a lot of money buying teddy bears on trips to foreign countries".
       Samorn was frustrated because her adorable dolls were buried deep in storage for years: Her house had no more space, not even a small corner,for any more decorative items.
       "I was born in a Chinese family and my parents felt that my collectible things could mess up the house. They like a plain house, not a fully decorated one, which is in stark contrast with my lifestyle,"she added.
       "They thought what I collected was unnecessary and lavish. I felt somewhat pressured about that. At the time, I really wanted to have my own house so I could decorate it with my personal things," she recalled.
       Samorn decided to move all her bears to a new place. This refuge has become a rendezvous point for teddy bear enthusiasts."Initially, I opened the shop to show off my endearing collection. Later, I wanted to share my passion ... so I started designing my own teddy bears."
       Apart from her fascination with teddy bears,Samorn is captivated by country-style decorations.This passion has helped her succeed as a veteran designer of country-style odds and ends, sought-after accessories and bedroom linen for those who appreciate the rustic charms of the countryside.
       At her Country-R-US shop, a vast array of chic creations is on display, including tissue-boxes,bird houses, tables, chairs, cabinets and beds.
       "I love all decorative items that emanate a sense of country style. I also collect books on the topic. I have fashioned country-style objects for 10 years now and I still want to produce more,"Samorn said proudly.
       Samorn also creates made-to-order pieces for clients who have their own ideas about style.
       Her accessories normally feature pictures of hearts, flowers, teddy bears, and country dolls like the iconic Raggedy Ann and Andy.
       Wooden pieces are made to look old in order to fit in with the country theme.
       "Normally, I try to find an old piece of wood ...if I can't find it, I need to paint it with a colour that helps make the wood appear old as if it's been used for a long time."
       Samorn also sells fabric designs, which are popular because each individual piece is unique,she said.
       "All of my works are handmade. No massproduced goods are available in my shop. So I can't produce many works a month because I have to pay so much attention to all the details,for big and small pieces," she added.
       Samorn's main clients are adults looking for something to remind them of the good old days.
       Whenever Samorn feels disheartened, the things in her shop cheer her up and boost her morale.
       "These things can directly connect to me. They have been an integral part of my life and I feel so attached to them. So I have never thought about quitting this job," she said with determination.
       "I'm like a dream seller, selling a dream of the countryside so people who love them can be happy like me."m
       MOVING TOWARDS A RUSTIC LOOK
       For those who want to turn their house into a country-style residence, here are some tips from Samorn:
       Before decorating the entire house,start with one room to control the budget and control the tone of the house. For those who enjoy the outdoors, you can choose a cool,shady spot in the garden.Next, search for country-style decorations that go along with the ambience of the room or the area.Their size must be compatible with the place you've chosen to decorate.If you plan to start in the garden, old wooden furniture, a bird house and cowboy dolls can help create the right atmosphere. But if you want to start in the living room, painted wooden furniture is preferable, since it can last longer.
       A picture of a vast green field,teddy bear, or bull fighters is an ideal choice when it comes to decorating the walls. But don't put too many pieces together,especially outstanding ones,because they can steal the show.
       If you want to start with the bedroom, simply select the bed,bed sheet, pillow case, and curtain in country-style designs.
       House owners should bear in mind that country-style homes emphasise simplicity, creativity,relaxation, and cosiness, so any formality is undesirable.
       Conserving the country style
       Like other kinds of furniture and decorative objects, country-style odds and ends need constant care to lengthen their lifespan.
       Old wooden furniture can be preserved with teak oil or oil-based stain that can be applied every three months. For those who like a glossy look,lacquer can help.
       They should also be cleaned daily. Use a dry cloth or duster to keep surfaces clean. Don't place the furniture outside, since the sun can fade its colour. Furniture should also be kept away from damp areas, since high humidity can ruin the wood.
       As for new wooden furniture, wipe it regularly with a wet, soft cloth.Don't use much water because it can stain the surface.
       Painted wooden furniture can be kept clean and gleaming all the time with the aid of a sheet of glass to protect the design from scratches.
       Water stains left on tables can be a big problem. But it can be solved in the blink of an eye.
       Wipe the table, then apply mayonnaise on the stain and clean it. If the table is scratched, apply shoe polish with the same colour before cleaning.
       Several kinds of cream and spray used to clean wooden furniture are available. Choose the right one for the right piece.