Why Get a Quilt Appraised? Answers from an Expert
For most of us, our handmade quilts are prized objects. Most often, they’re passed between family members or gifted to friends. But what about those special pieces? Pieces like vintage quilts we pick up at auctions, heirlooms made by our ancestors, or contemporary masterpieces created with expertise and care. As many of us know, these quilts are true treasures. So, why get a quilt appraised? In many cases, our prized quilts can be worth much more than their sentimental value!
For these special quilts, you might consider working with a professional quilt appraiser to learn more about your treasure. A qualified appraiser has been through extensive training and certification by a professional organization. They are trained and certified to give accurate information about the value of a quilt.
Why Get a Quilt Appraised?
As you can imagine, there are many reasons to have a quilt appraised. For newer quilts, the focus of the appraisal may be more on the design, workmanship, and artistic merit. But vintage appraisals may home in on the condition of the quilt, rarity of the design, and historical significance.
And just remember, whether your quilts are antique or contemporary, the process is the same. First, you’ll start with identifying a qualified appraiser who has the knowledge and expertise to provide the information you need. Then you’ll work with them to evaluate your quilts! A written appraisal will provide you with a depth of information about your quilt, help you learn more about the piece, and document the quilt’s value.
4 Reasons Why a Quilt Might Need Appraisal
1
Understanding the Historical Significance of a Quilt: Does your quilt hail from a specific time period, have ties to a special event or a specific community? If so, an appraiser may help you determine the quilt’s age and the context in which it was made. They will look for clues from the fabrics chosen, construction techniques, imagery, and more. An appraisal can help document the quilts significance and answer many questions about the maker.
2
Quilt Provenance: Many times, a quilt’s origin is unknown. This is one of the reasons it is important to label your quilts! In some cases, an appraisal can help establish the authenticity and provenance of a quilt, particularly if it is a vintage or antique piece. This information can be valuable for collectors, museums, and quilt historians.
3
Documenting Value: If you sell or donate your work, it may be helpful to have an appraiser set its value. In addition to objectively outlining the quilt’s historical significance, quality, craftsmanship, the value will also be noted by the appraiser. This might be useful for tax purposes especially if the piece is donated.
4
Valuation for Insurance Purposes: If your quilt is damaged, lost, or stolen, having a written appraisal on file helps establish its worth and ensure appropriate compensation.
The practical reasons aside, I’m having a family quilt appraised at Stitch Fest Lancaster for personal reasons. And, honestly, it’s because I just want to learn more about it! This quilt is made of thin wool and was foundation pieced onto a calico background. In fact, there is no batting between the layers, and it absolutely sings with a joyful use of color. So I want to know: How old is it? Where was it made? And why does this vintage quilt look surprisingly modern?
Will You Get a Quilt Appraised?
Many of us treasure our quilts, especially those from family members long gone. And as you can see, having a quilt appraised can add to your knowledge of the of the technical and historical significance. But maybe more important than that, it will strengthen your ties to the original maker and allow you to appreciate their work – and their craft – more fully. So, now that we’ve answered the question “why get a quilt appraised,” it’s time to pick out some designs to have evaluated! And be sure to share your experiences with us on Facebook, Instagram, or the comments below.
Best,
Vivika DeNegre
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