Ruth Hasman, a retiree based in Vancouver, has dedicated herself to the art of teddy bear repair, handling a variety of issues from pet-inflicted damages to general wear and tear. With nearly twenty years of experience, she estimates having restored thousands of stuffed animals from different regions of North America. Hasman’s home serves as a workshop, adorned with stuffed toy parts, buttons, eyes, and fur adorning every available surface.
Her services encompass a wide range of procedures including fur grafts, eyeball replacements, stuffing refills, and spa treatments for the beloved toys. Going the extra mile for her clients, Hasman often scours numerous thrift stores in search of the perfect fabric match. She takes pride in her meticulous work, willing to dismantle and redo a bear if the final outcome doesn’t meet her standards, as each toy presents a unique challenge and learning opportunity.
Beyond the technical aspect, Hasman cherishes the personal stories associated with each teddy bear she repairs, acknowledging the sentimental value many clients hold for their cherished companions. One notable instance was when she restored a 115-year-old bear that had been passed down through five generations within a family.
One satisfied client, Vedrana Petrovic, praised Hasman’s work on her plush golden retriever, Sylvester, purchased from IKEA over a decade ago. Petrovic expressed amazement at the transformation, noting that Sylvester, who had been a source of comfort during her university days, now looked rejuvenated and ready for more years of cuddles. Hasman, looking to pass on her expertise, is currently training a successor in Maple Ridge, with the hope that her legacy of teddy bear restoration will endure for years to come.
