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 love. With nearly 20 years of experience, she estimates having repaired thousands of stuffed animals from all over North America.
Her home in Vancouver is adorned with stuffed toy parts, buttons, eyes, and fur, serving as a backdrop to her teddy bear restoration endeavors. Offering services like fur grafts, eyeball replacements, stuffing replenishments, and spa treatments, Hasman goes the extra mile for her clients, often scouring multiple thrift stores to source the perfect fabric for each unique repair.
Hasman’s dedication to her craft is unwavering, as she meticulously disassembles and reworks bears until she is satisfied with the outcome. She emphasizes that each bear presents a new challenge, allowing her to continually learn and grow in her craft.
What sets Hasman apart is her genuine interest in the stories behind each toy she repairs, some of which hold deep sentimental value for their owners. One of her most treasured experiences was repairing a 115-year-old bear that had been passed down through five generations in a family.
Among her satisfied clients is Vedrana Petrovic, who was amazed at the transformation of her plush golden retriever toy, Sylvester, after Hasman’s expert care. Petrovic, who relied on Sylvester for emotional support during her university days, expressed gratitude for his restoration, ensuring he remains a cherished companion for years to come.
Looking to the future, Hasman is training a successor in Maple Ridge and hopes to pass on her legacy of teddy bear restoration. However, she remains committed to her craft, driven by the heartfelt stories that each bear brings her way.