Restoration Services

Nurse Bea searches for a cure for "Ted-itis"

The incurable habit of collecting Teddy Bears or "Arctophily"

Restoring vintage and antique Teddy Bears is a delicate job. Done incorrectly it can disguise and devalue your Teddy Bear. For 16 years Karla McDowell has been researching the history and origins of the Teddy Bear.

Careful attention is given to ensure restoration work is done in accordance with the Teddy Bears original features. Before any restoration work is begun, much research is done to correctly identify Teddy's origins. Many restorers will do a "generic" restoration, stitching a nose and mouth the same as they would on an artist bear. Karla takes special care to re-stitch the nose and mouth as they would have been originally on the Teddy Bear. Manufacturers were often very distinct in the style of nose that was given to their Teddy Bears. It is often one of the most important features used to identify a Teddy Bear.

Complete services offered: Paw pad replacement, eye replacement, ear and limb replacement, joint repair, growler repair, squeaker repair or replacement, re-stuffing. Teddy Bear baths, a very important step in preserving Teddy for the future! Dust and dirt can cause mohair to decay, a clean Teddy is a Happy Teddy!!! E-mail teddy@oldbearclinic .com for more information or an estimate. Or contact Karla McDowell at 515-993-4004.

Early American before and after Restoration

German Diem