An Introduction to Quilt Appraisal

Written by Bobbie A. Aug

Quilt appraising is a science as well as an art. Factual, scientific data is always used to substantiate values given to quilts. That data might include recent sales of comparable quilts in the same area, an established sales record of the quiltmaker, costs to reproduce a newly made quilt, and so on: Factual data that results in an expert and objective opinion. Where the "art" comes into use, is being creative enough to recognize trends, fads, historical significance, overall visual appeal, and other important criteria and apply this information and professional appraisal experiences to the appraisal at hand. Being able to recognize successful original work, unusual or rare antique textiles, whatÕs hot and what's not are some of the important skills that a Quilt Appraiser must possess.

Having a written appraisal on each quilt that you own is the best way to document your quilt collection of antique, newly made traditional-style, and/or art quilts, and record their Insurance Replacement Value. A written appraisal will determine the value for replacement with similar like and kind when shipping your quilt, displaying it in a quilt show, or any other loss or damage.

It is important to note that since groups hosting quilt shows are ultimately responsible for any and all quilts they accept for exhibit, they need to purchase insurance to cover all quilts displayed. Rarely, if ever, does standard homeowners insurance cover your quilt while being exhibited in a special event such as a quilt show. In order to keep the cost of insurance reasonable for the event organizers, quilts are valued at a set limit, (often $500 for large quilts and $250 for small quilts) unless a written appraisal by a recognized expert accompanies the quilt. This actually is the reason that the American Quilter's Society in Paducah, KY started the Quilt Appraisal Certification Program. To establish guidelines and criteria for setting realistic replacement values on quilted textiles. Due to a rigorous testing process, those appraisers certified by AQS possess this skill. Most national-level quilt shows offer the opportunity for the quiltmaker to have her quilt appraised while hanging in the show and some venues offer walk-in appraisals as well. This is a wonderful service and well worth the small fee that most shows charge.

A written quilt appraisal should specify a circa date of when your quilt was made, the maker's name if known, adequately describe your quilt through pattern, set, materials, construction technique, color and any other pertinent information, accurately assess the quality of workmanship and the overall condition of your textile, note the current economic conditions, describe the type of value being established, the actual value, and the method and resources used to substantiate value. Any other factual information known that would affect value should also be noted. This might include special exhibits, awards, quiltmaker's established sales record, publications, and any other information relative to the quilt, quiltmaker or quilt owner. The qualifications of the Quilt Appraiser should also be provided.

In addition to establishing Insurance Replacement Value, quilt appraisals can also be used to determine Fair Market Value. In simple terms, this is the price at which the quilt might sell for if offered for sale in the open market, with all conditions being normal, the buyer and seller being willing, and the buyer being knowledgeable. This type of value would be used to determine the value of your estate, either for division at your death, or in the event of a divorce. Also, Fair Market Value is the price at which you might offer your quilt for sale, as well as the value of your quilt if you were to donate it to a qualified organization or institution.

Bobbie Aug is a teacher, lecturer, AQS Certified Quilt Appraiser and author from Colorado Springs, Colorado. She is a member of the American Quilter's Society Appraiser Certification Committee, testing and certifying quilt appraisers for AQS Certification.

For information about her classes and workshops, you may contact her at:

P.O. Box 9654
Colorado Springs, CO 80932-0654
Fax 719-632-9210
Email qwltpro@msn.com

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Introduction to Quilt Appraisal

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