Over the years, I have spoken to many collectors about their position on restorations both small and large on pieces they both own and look to purchase.  The resounding answer that I hear over and over is this : the less restorations the better. 
     When you find that wonderful piece of Steiff for your collection, it is easy to be carried away in trying to make this vintage piece “new again”.  If I may, let me give you a few words of advice on the topic.  Older Steiff mohair animals and bears always do well with a light brushing and dusting.  A small metal comb with teeth not too close to one another works great.  Please keep this is mind, when you comb an old Steiff bear, do it outside in the daylight.  With each brush, you will notice how much of the mohair comes out!!!!  You need to take great care and spend a good deal of time to do it right and do it slow.  Which would you rather have, a piece of Steiff with more mohair that looks a bit curly or a piece with less mohair that looks a bit fresher?  Also, “moisture-free” computer cleaner in a can is a great tool.  Once again, use this outside in the daylight so you can make sure not to damage the piece you are working on.  Keep the can at least 10” from the animal or bear and work slow.  This will get all the dust and light debit away from your prize piece of Steiff.
     Early velvet pieces should never be cleaned with any cleaning solution or other “bear cleaner”.  Early velvet has changed color over the years and with the introduction of a chemical, you have no idea what will happen to it.  I can guarantee you that you will be unhappy with the results.  Just stay with the “moisture-free” computer cleaner at a good distance. 
     Many people repair the hands and feet of their early bears (the pads) and this is at personal like or dislike.  For myself, I would rather have a piece of Steiff that has been untouched for if I wanted a “perfect” bear, I would look for something that is brand new.  Each and every mark, every wear point is something your bear/animal has lived through, just like all of us.  They are roadmaps that remind up how loved our bear/animal has been throughout its life.  There is nothing wrong with seeing a little wear, it gives them character. 
     A few stitches here and there can help keep you bear intact but I would just try to do the minimum that you can.  Collectors will take a good look at each and every repair and wonder what else the animal or bear has gone through.  Stitches work well for an ear that might not be tight.  In general, try not to fix a nose….for you will never get it the way that Steiff is able to. 
     Remember, vintage Steiff is so wonderful because it has seen decades of love.  It is time that makes each piece of Steiff so special.  If this helps, please click on the "yes" button below so that other people can find out about this information (or you can email me if I can help in any way).

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