Ruth Hasman, a retired seamstress based in Vancouver, has made it her mission to mend a wide range of teddy bear mishaps, from pet-inflicted damages to wear and tear from excessive cuddling. For nearly twenty years, she has been dedicated to restoring old and broken stuffed animals, estimating that she has repaired countless toys from all corners of North America.
Her home is adorned with stuffed toy parts, buttons, eyes, and fur, showcasing the extensive work she undertakes in her “teddy bear hospital.” Hasman offers a variety of services such as fur grafts, eyeball replacements, stuffing replenishments, and even spa treatments for the beloved toys in her care. She spares no effort, often scouring numerous thrift stores to source the perfect fabric for each unique project.
Each teddy bear presents a new challenge for Hasman, who approaches each repair with a fresh perspective and a commitment to perfection. She admits that she learns something new with every toy she fixes, relishing the opportunity to uncover the sentimental stories behind each bear.
One of her clients, Vedrana Petrovic, praised Hasman for her meticulous work on Sylvester, a plush golden retriever from IKEA that was on the brink of irreparability. Petrovic expressed her amazement at the transformation of Sylvester, who has been a steadfast companion offering emotional support during her university years.
Hasman’s dedication to her craft is evident in her desire to pass on her expertise to a trainee in Maple Ridge, with the hope that her legacy will continue even when she decides to step back. However, for now, she remains committed to her teddy bear restoration work, driven by the heartwarming stories that accompany each bear she lovingly repairs.