Frequently Asked Questions
The answers to all your toy and doll repair and restoration FAQ 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.
Definitely – no toy is beyond repair! We specialise in antique teddy and doll restoration but are also happy to work on all kinds of modern toys. 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. You’re also welcome to drop by our studio for an in-person consultation.
The cost of repairing a toy can vary greatly depending on how much work is involved and the materials the toy is made from. Some vintage teddy bear restorations can cost the same as repairing modern ones. Repair work is done by our team of skilled specialists, and much of this work is done by hand.
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 give you a cost break-down with options and suggestions tailored to your request, so you don’t need to have any more repairs done than you want.
We ask for payment after repairs are completed, and send you an itemised invoice along with photos of the final results. You can pay online by bank transfer, by card over the phone or online and in person if you come to collect your toy. Cheques should be made payable to Leith Toy Hospital Ltd.
We are currently accepting new patients for both soft toys and hard material repairs, but ask that you get in touch before sending them to us. The time needed for repairs varies depending on the work required, but in general soft toys can be with us for between 4 to 6 weeks and dolls or hard materials toys up to 12 weeks.
Repair times can be influenced by staff and supplier availability, but 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!
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 while making an educated guess, or getting in touch with an auction house who might be able to offer valuations for antiques. We also have books for sale which can help you research and indentify your teddy bear!
If they are worth it to you, then it’s worth it! We help toys that are priceless to families because of the sentimental value they hold. If you’re on a tight budget, we’re happy to discuss options to meet your needs wherever possible.
Yes, we have a team of doll specialists and undertake all types of modern and antique dolls restorations as well as some mechanical dolls. Dolls we repair can be plastic dolls, cellulose dolls, composition dolls and porcelain dolls. Our doll repair team can also help with paint touch ups and repairs for collectable action figures.
The price of an antique doll repair varies hugely depending on what repair is required.
Firstly take a look at our price list for a guideline, and send us a photo for a quote. Afterwards 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.
Our studio is located at 85 Millhill, Musselburgh, EH21 7RP. Musselburgh is just a short journey by bus or train from Edinburgh City center, and we are located just off the main Musselburgh High Street. If coming by car, there is free parking available nearby.
You can visit our studio reception space to discuss repairs for your toy with the team, and browse in our shop where we have accessories for your toy as well as Dolls and Teddies available to adopt! We also have a range of Toy Hospital gifts and merchandise for sale. Unfortunately, we are not able to show customers into the workshops. This is because it is a working studio area for our trained staff, and we have to be careful that all the toys and people are safe and secure at all times.
We are on the ground floor and there a fully accessible toilet available for customers on the ground floor. Larger wheelchairs and electric scooters might need extra assistance but we are happy to provide any help requested.
We work Monday-Saturday, 10-6, with phone and email support from Monday to Friday. 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, but there will always be someone to answer the phone or door during our business hours. If you’re looking to speak to a particular member of staff, it’s always worth phoning to check if they’re available.
Yes, we love making tiny clothes! We can re-cover or re-create existing clothing, or make something brand new. Additionally we also have a small stock of ready-made clothing. Just let us know what you’re looking for and we’ll be happy to accordingly assist you.
After receiving a repair estimate you can post your toy, bring it in person or use a courier of your choice. We recommend Royal Mail Special Delivery, which is insured and offers next-day delivery. Please put your contact details in the parcel with your toy, so that we can identify it when it arrives.
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 such as shredded or balled up paper.
If you’d like to clean your own teddy, you can also find a lot of useful cleaning and storage tips on our services page. Alternatively, we offer surface cleaning services for all the kinds of toy we repair.
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!