Here, you can see the step-by-step transformations of antique and vintage dolls brought to Dolls’ Stories Hospital. From repairing fragile porcelain and cleaning vintage fabrics to restorative wig styling and delicate touch-ups, see how worn-out heirlooms are gently returned to their original beauty and charm. 

This endearing 1960s teddy bear, made in East Germany, combines a medium-pile plush body with a distinctive rubber face and sleeping eyes. When he arrived, however, time had left visible damage: the plush needed cleaning, the body had openings and weakened areas, and a deep crack was on the surface of the rubber face.

The restoration began with a careful cleaning of the plush fur to remove accumulated dust and surface grime while preserving its original texture and warm cream colour. Openings in the body were closed and reinforced to restore the bear’s structure and ensure that the original stuffing remained securely inside.

The most delicate part of the work was the face. The deep crack was carefully repaired and stabilized before the facial details were refreshed. His painted features—particularly the nose, mouth, shading, lashes, and rosy cheeks—were renewed with a light hand, preserving the expression and character of the original face rather than giving him a newly painted appearance.

To protect the repaired and refreshed rubber surface, the face was sealed with a special varnish with UV protection. This final layer helps safeguard the finish from future light exposure while keeping the surface appropriate for display.

The result is a clean, stable, and display-ready vintage teddy bear. His original plush body, rubber face, and sleeping eyes remain at the centre of the restoration, while the damaged areas have been carefully strengthened and renewed. The goal was not to make him look new, but to preserve the unusual charm of a well-loved 1960s East German toy.