When was my quilt made and what is it worth...

by Bonnie
(Sheridan Ar.)

Bonnie writes...

I was given 11 quilts from my grandmother-in-law. I was wondering how I can find out when they were made and what they are worth.

I'm thinking they were made in the late 1800's to early 1900's.

Here is a picture of one front and back. And one of just the front. The one with the four squares is the one pictured of the back also.

Julie replies...

You're so lucky to have part of your family's quilting heritage in your possession! I'm envious! (in a good way! Love the feedsack cloth! :D )

I suggest that you contact a certified appraiser in your state. Many times, your local quilt guild will sponsor an appraiser booth where you can make an appointment to have your quilts valued.

This is a good thing for two reasons:

1. They can weed out the quilts that were bought recently.
   
   I know that sounds strange, let me explain.
   
   I belong to a Facebook group called "Quilts-Vintage and Antique". They're a very smart bunch of quilt historians. Show and tell of antique quilts is what they do. They identify blocks and patterns...it's a real education.
   
   One of the things that comes up more frequently (than I would have suspected), is that someone will think they have a family heirloom, only to find that Grandma bought the quilt from a catalog.
   
   It fooled a lot of people...even family members.
   
   Now I'm not suggesting that the case's with your treasures (for sure because of the feedsacks); however, a certified quilt appraiser will know the difference and provide accurate indications of your quilts' monetary worth.
   
   We, all, already know that the sentimental value is enormous.


2. With that valuation, you can properly insure the quilts, if you so desire. Should any repair or restoration work need doing, they can also direct you on that, especially with regards to maintaining the value of the patchwork.

Both reasons well worth the cost in my humble opinion.

To find a guild local to you, check out our Quilt Guilds Directory.

The other option is to contact an appraiser directly. You can find links to them on our page, Use a Certified Quilt Appraiser to determine FMV.

I'd love to hear what their opinions are.

Thank you for your question.

Piecefully,

Julie Baird
Editor

This article was printed from Generations-Quilt-Patterns.com