Ruth Hasman, a retired seamstress based in Vancouver, has devoted her time to restoring worn-out and damaged teddy bears. Over nearly twenty years, she has repaired a multitude of stuffed animals from various locations in North America. Hasman’s home is filled with stuffed toy parts, buttons, eyes, and fur, showcasing her dedication to her craft.
She offers a range of services including fur grafts, eyeball replacements, stuffing replenishments, and spa treatments for the stuffed animals. Going the extra mile for her clients, she often scours numerous thrift stores to find the perfect fabric matches. If a bear doesn’t meet her standards, she will dismantle and redo the work, as she believes each toy presents a unique challenge and learning opportunity.
Beyond the physical repairs, Hasman finds joy in learning the sentimental stories behind each toy she works on. She cherishes the connections made with people and the histories tied to the bears. One notable repair was a 115-year-old bear passed down through five generations in a family.
Vedrana Petrovic, a satisfied client of Hasman’s, praised the restoration of her plush golden retriever from IKEA, named Sylvester. Petrovic expressed surprise and gratitude at the transformation of Sylvester, who had provided her emotional support during her university years. The rejuvenated bear now stands as a cherished companion for Petrovic, symbolizing lasting comfort and memories.
Looking towards the future, Hasman is training a successor in Maple Ridge with the hope that they will continue her legacy. However, for now, she remains dedicated to her craft, driven by the stories and emotional connections she creates through her mending of beloved teddy bears.
