Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Gain access to the quilt. Make sure to have available a large enough area to lay the quilt out completely, so that no folds or bends are in the quilt. Straighten the quilt out and use a large white or black sheet underneath to protect the quilt and to help showcase the colors.
Take digital photos of the quilt from various angles. Use the zoom feature on the camera and take pictures of quilting squares, patterns, stitching and backing. Make sure to photograph the entire quilt, both front and back, in addition to close-up shots of the craftsmanship.
Take notes about the quilt. Talk to the person who made the quilt if they are available. if not, speak to someone who has had the quilt and knows the history associated with it. Note information regarding the year the quilt was made, where the material was obtained, whether or not the quilt was completely hand-stitched and what the quilt was initially made and used for.
Visit accredited museums and antique dealers with your photographs and notes regarding the quilt. Look at all quilts and compare the quilt you are appraising to those already appraised. Try to find a similar quilt based on age, size, shape, fabric detail, stitching style and overall condition. Take photographs of the similar quilts and take notes regarding their appraised value.
Review all research on similar quilts. Determine the average value of a quilt similar to the one you are appraising. Use that figure as your starting point as a price for either buying or selling the quilt.
Join a recognized appraisal association such as the Professional Association of Appraisers, the International Association of Appraisers, the Appraisers Association of America or the American Society of Appraisers. Sign up for and attend classes, seminars and courses related to appraising quilts and other textiles. Know that quilts are considered textiles and fall under the category for appraising purposes. Talk to registered appraisers at appraisal associations to get insight from each one on how they individually appraise quilts. Understand that quilts are appraised, at times, based on personal preference. For example, some appraisers value Amish quilts higher than German quilts, and vice versa.