Teddy doctor visits?

August 19, 2005 6:17 PM

Have you ever sent a plush toy to a "stuffed animal hospital"?

I know that there are people who specialize in plush toy restoration, and I was wondering if anyone has any experiences -good or bad- to share. I'm thinking about getting my best friend a gift certificate to send her favorite stuffed animal to a "teddy doctor" but I want it to go to someone good.

posted by radioamy to grab bag (7 comments total)

Are you kidding?
Do they charge more than say the local dry cleaner?
posted by caddis at 7:20 PM on August 19, 2005

Just from watching "Antiques Roadshow" a few years back, I know that there are poeple around the world who do restorations on dolls and stuffed animals. Cost? That's probably commesurate to the value of the toy. I havn't really checked it out yet, but my SO has a stuffed Bunny from the late 50's/early 60's that I'm thinking of having restored for her. The original toy might have cost $5 U.S. I'm thinking, maybe, spending around $150-$200 for a "cosmetic" restoration. That is to say that it is NOT a collectors item.
posted by snsranch at 7:36 PM on August 19, 2005

No, for the record, I'm *not* kidding.
posted by radioamy at 7:37 PM on August 19, 2005

Just my very old, very worn, very beloved teddy bear -- they restuffed him and sewed up a hole, would've washed him if I'd let them. I think it cost me about $50 at the New York Doll Hospital, this was seven or so years ago. Worth every penny!
posted by lia at 9:05 PM on August 19, 2005

No, but when I was real little and my mom had to stitch up my Pooh bear, she told me she was giving him a shot of "hunny penthothal" so it wouldn't hurt him.
posted by matildaben at 10:39 PM on August 19, 2005

My mom had excellent results when she took her childhood dolls to The Doll Hospital in MI. Easier if you live within driving distance - otherwise you have to pack up your beloved doll or toy and send it in for an estimate. And their FAQ indicates they repair stuffed toys, too.

(not inexpensive, fyi)
posted by pinky at 1:39 PM on August 20, 2005

I know someone who has had very good results with Antie Clare's in the Twin Cities in Minnesota. It won't be cheap.
posted by cushie at 2:07 PM on August 20, 2005