TOY REPAIR FAQS:
The answers to all your toy and doll repair and restoration questions can be found here! We do antique teddy and doll repairs and restorations. Find out how to get an antique teddy restoration or doll repair done, including where to find us and what it will cost. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, get in touch and we’ll be happy to help you out.
Can I get my Teddy Repaired?
Definitely – no teddy is beyond repair! We specialise in antique teddy restoration. Email us with a photo and an explanation of what needs fixing, and we’ll send you a no-pressure quote and explanation of what your options are for getting it fixed. Outside of covid times, you’re also welcome to drop by the studio for an in-person consultation.
Is Teddy Repair Expensive?
The price repairing a toy varies hugely depending on the extent of the work needed and the materials the toy is made from. Some antique teddy restorations can cost the same as some modern ones.
Take a look at our price list for a guideline, and send us a photo for a quote. We’ll work out a total based on your individual toy. We’ll always give you a breakdown with lots of options and suggestions, so you don’t need to have any more repairs done than you want.
HOW DO I PAY for my Toy Repair?
We normally send out electronic invoices that you can pay by card. You can also pay by bank transfer, cheque or by card over the phone. Cheques should be made payable to Leith Toy Hospital Ltd. We also accept itison vouchers – at the moment you can buy up to 3 £10 vouchers for £5 apiece here.
HOW LONG will my toy repair take?
We are currently booking toys in a few months ahead; however, in special cases, such as when a child doesn’t want to sleep without their favourite toy, or if you have a specific deadline, do get in touch and we’ll do our best to accommodate!. Once your booking slot comes around, we’ll ask you to send your toys in, and from that point it normally takes about a month.
Can you value my toy?
Unfortunately we don’t undertake valuations. We can tell you how much it will cost to repair your toy, but not how much it would sell for if you decide to sell it. We recommend having a look at similar toys on ebay and making an educated guess, or getting in touch with an auction house who might be able to offer valuations for antiques.
IS MY TEDDY WORTH FIXING?
If he/she is worth it to you, then it’s worth it! Often toys are priceless to families because of the sentimental value they hold. We can often offer your toy a partial repair if you’re on a tight budget.
ARE YOU A DOLL HOSPITAL?
Yes, we have a team of doll specialists and undertake all types of modern and antique dolls restorations as well as some mechanical dolls. Some types of dolls we repair are plastic dolls, cellulose dolls, composition dolls and porcelain dolls.
IS antique doll REPAIR and restoration EXPENSIVE?
The price of an antique doll repair varies hugely depending on what repair is required.
Take a look at our price list for a guideline, and send us a photo for a quote. We’ll work out a total based on your individual toy. We’ll always give you a breakdown with lots of options and suggestions, so you don’t need to have any more repairs done than you want.
WHERE IS LEITH TOY HOSPITAL?
Our studio is 64 Constitution Street, Edinburgh, EH6 6RR. We are accessible by many local bus routes, walking, or bike, and sometimes street parking is available but it can be tricky during the present tram works. You can find more contact information here.
Can I come in and look around Leith Toy Hospital?
You can bring your toy to drop off with us in person and we have a small customer area in the lobby. Unfortunately, we are not able to show customers into the workshops. This is because we don’t have a lot of space, and we have to be super careful that all the toys are completely safe at all times.
Is it Accessible?
There are 5 steps up to the front door – if you might find the steps difficult just give us a ring and someone will always be happy to come out and chat to you outside.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOURS?
We work Monday-Saturday, 10-6. We’re usually open on bank holidays and closed for major holidays, but if in doubt, call us to check! Some of our staff work from home, however there is always a skeleton staff here. If you’re looking to speak to a particular member of staff, it’s always worth phoning to check first!
CAN YOU MAKE NEW CLOTHES FOR MY DOLL OR TEDDY?
Yes, we love making tiny clothes! We can re-cover or recreate existing clothing, or make something brand new. Take a look at some examples of things we’ve made here.
How should I send my toy to the Toy Hospital?
If it’s a soft toy or a mechanical toy, you can post your toy, bring it in person or use a courier of your choice. We recommend Royal Mail Special Delivery, which is very safe – we have never known anything to go missing. Please put your contact details in the parcel with your toy, so that we can identify it when it arrives.
If you have a doll, you will need to book in for a slot. Contact us for a quote, and we’ll send you a link to book.
How should I package my doll?
For fragile dolls, we recommend double boxing – putting your doll in a box inside a bigger box. You can pad the doll with all sorts of things, shredded or balled up paper is very good.
How to clean a teddy
If you’d like to clean your own teddy, you can also find a lot of useful cleaning and storage tips here. No magic – mainly just lots of care and gentle scrubbing and brushing! Alternatively, we offer surface cleaning services for all the kinds of toy we repair.
are you the same as Picture to Puppet?
Picture to Puppet is our sister company, making custom puppets and soft toys to order. Picture to Puppet handle our lost toy recreations. We share the same studio space and have some staff crossover, so if you’ve reached one company, you’ve reached both! Picture to Puppet has its own website here.
