If I have not answered your questions below please do not hesitate to contact me.
How do I send you my bear?
I would strongly recommend that you send your bear by Special Delivery or by a trackable service. Please remember the return postage will be added to your quotation but I will only charge the exact postage paid and I will not charge for packaging. Please also remember that if your teddy has been restuffed or had a new limb or two, he will be heavier!
Can you quote from a photograph or description?
No. Unfortunately it is necessary to see the teddy bear before giving a firm quote as it is often difficult to see the full extent of the damage. I am happy to give a rough idea of cost from a photo which should be sent to bygonebears@gmail.com
What does the quote include?
It will include all labour and cost of materials and it will remain firm. However, very occasionally, it may be necessary to undertake additional repairs which were not originally quoted for, and in this situation I will always contact you and obtain your permission before continuing with the repairs.
How and when do I pay?
Payment should be made when you have received the quote and are happy to proceed. I accept cheques (payable to J. Legg) or a Bank Transfer (contact me for bank details).
What if I decide not to go ahead with the repair?
The return postage will be the only cost to pay and your teddy bear will be returned to you immediately.
How long does the repair take?
I will try and repair your teddy bear as quickly as possible. Depending on workload, I would hope to return him to you within 4-6 weeks.
What are you not able to restore or repair?
I am not able to repair modern post 1980's teddy bears other than for cleaning and restuffing.
I am not able to repair sheepskin, real fur or knitted teddy bears.
I am not able to repair rod jointed bears or automatons.
I am not able to repair original growlers, squeakers or musical boxes. I use new traditional growlers which have a different sound from the older ones, unfortunately this is unavoidable.
I am not able to repair safety eyes and joints as they are by design very difficult to remove.
I will not attempt to clean old bears that have little or no fur remaining. A light surface clean is recommended only if the bear is very dirty and has a good covering of fur. I cannot guarantee to remove old stains.
I am not able to re stuff bears that are filled with disintegrated foam chips as used in bears from the 1960's.
I do not accept teddy bears that have an insect infestation or have been vomited on.
I am worried my teddy bear will not look the same
I will only ever carry out repairs and restoration requested by you. Please make sure when completing the repair form that you specify all the repairs you require in detail.
Can I give my restored antique or vintage teddy bear to a child?
No, your restored antique teddy bear will be very delicate and he will not comply with current toy safety regulations. Please give him a peaceful and quiet retirement!
An important word about abandoned teddy bears!
Very rarely, after carrying out the agreed repairs and no payment has been received, I will assume the teddy bear has been abandoned. I will make every effort to contact you and agree a payment schedule, but if after 3 months from the original quote and no payment is forthcoming, I will sell him in order to recoup costs. Please note this is a last resort action and I would be much happier for you to be reunited with your teddy bear.
Tips on cleaning and caring for your antique and collectable teddy bear
Please never place your teddy bear in a washing machine no matter how dirty he may be, he will almost certainly have his joints and stuffing destroyed and he may not survive intact. A gentle surface clean is perfectly adequate.
Give him an occasional brush to remove dust, a new dog brush does the job well.
Once a year wipe him over with a damp cloth and leave him to dry naturally.
Keep him out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.
Keep him away from dogs and puppies, they will not know the difference between their chew toy and your precious teddy!
Regularly check for moths, moth larvae and eggs. If left untreated they will do immense harm to your mohair teddy. I recommend lavender bags and cedar balls as a natural moth deterrent. Please do not use harsh chemicals or insecticides.
If moths are suspected, seal your bear in a plastic bag and place him in the freezer for 3-4 days. After bringing him out, leave to thaw at room temperature. Don't worry he will be perfectly happy and bug free!
If you intend to store him, do not seal him in a plastic bag, an old cotton pillow case is ideal.
