Trail of Bears: Build + Commission Options
Outdoor Bear Boards
For LGG Members
The Bear Build Studio at the Craft Cottage offers multiple ways for LGG members to create outdoor bear boards up to 4 ft × 6 ft for the Trail of Bears in Grafton.
These are large, exterior pieces designed to be seen from the road and photographed up close. Many include a face-in-the-hole feature so visitors can step behind the board and take photos.
All builds take place indoors in the heated glass studio, which has a cement floor and plenty of space for upright painting and comfortable movement.
Option 1: Fully DIY
Free for LGG Members
This option is for members who would like to handle the entire build independently.
You provide your own board, paints, supplies, and design (drawn or pre-traced by you), and you handle sealing, bracing, transport, and installation.
You receive access to the heated studio space Monday–Friday, 10am–4pm with 48 hours’ advance notice. Wall and floor space for painting, cement block risers, and storage onsite while your bear is in progress are included.
Michelle provides the space only. Design, priming, tracing, paint, sealing, and bracing are handled by you.
Cost: $0
Option 2: Guided Bear Build
This option is ideal if you would like support and supplies but still want to paint your own bear.
Michelle primes your board white, scales and pre-traces your design, provides paints and supplies, and works alongside you during small-group studio sessions (2–4 participants at a time). After painting is complete, Michelle applies two coats of marine-grade UV sealant and installs removable back braces so your bear is ready for outdoor display and easy winter storage.
You paint your bear. Michelle handles preparation and finishing.
Cost: $125
Optional Add-On: Design Assist
Design Assist is available if you do not have artwork ready or would like help turning an idea into something that works at full 4×6 scale.
This includes a short design intake, two concept options, up to two or three small revisions, and a final layout sized for full-scale tracing.
Canva designs are always welcome and encouraged. This is simply optional support.
Add-On Cost: $50
Option 3: Custom Painted Bear (Done for You)
If you prefer not to paint, Michelle can create your bear from start to finish.
All custom bears include priming, full hand painting, two coats of marine-grade UV sealant, and removable back braces.
Community Bear – $250
Simple color palette with your business name and minimal detailing.
Branded Bear – $350
Includes logo integration, brand colors, and added detail for stronger visual identity.
Signature Bear – $600–$750
Fully styled character bear with layered painting, props or themed elements, optional background detail, and strong photo-op personality.
Installation is not included unless arranged separately.
Giving Back
Twenty-five percent of all paid bear builds are donated directly to Let’s Grow Grafton to support the Grafton Games.
Free builders are just as valued. The goal is participation first, with paid options available for those who want additional support.
Which Option Is Right for Me?
Fully DIY is a good fit if you are comfortable drawing or transferring your own design, already have paint and supplies, and want full creative control while handling sealing, bracing, and installation yourself.
Guided Build is a good choice if you have a design (or can provide one), would like it scaled and traced for you, prefer not to purchase large quantities of paint, and appreciate guidance while you work.
Design Assist is helpful if you do not have artwork ready, are not comfortable drawing, or want help shaping an idea into something that works at 4×6 scale.
Custom is the right path if you are short on time, do not enjoy painting, or want a more detailed, character-style bear completed for you.
There is no right or wrong choice. The goal is simply to get your bear on the Trail in a way that works for you.