Frequently Asked Questions

Why have a quilt appraised?

• To establish a replacement value for insurance purposes before a loss such as fire, flood, damage or disappearance occurs.
• To meet your insurance company’s requirements for a fine arts rider
• To be assured that your quilt has adequate insurance coverage while at a textile competition or exhibit
• To provide a written record for your family
• To determine fair market value for the sale of a quilt
• To determine the value for donation, gift or estate purposes, as may be required by the IRS

What are the different values of a quilt?

• Insurance value – is what the appraiser finds in the marketplace that would satisfy the loss of your quilt. It does not reflect what you could get for that particular quilt if you sold it, but rather what you would pay to obtain a replacement like and kind.
• Fair Market Value – is the price at which a quilt would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller, both having reasonable knowledge of the item.
• Donation Value – is the same value as fair market value and is used to determine the value of a charitable gift.

What do I get with an appraisal?

You will receive a professionally written document for each quilt appraised. This can be used for your personal information as well as for insurance purposes.

How often should I have a quilt appraised?

An appraisal should be performed every 3 to 5 years, to keep up with changes in the market.

What do I need to bring to the appraisal?

Provide any documentation that you might have about the quilt. If it is an antique piece, bring anything you know about the quilt's maker or its heritage. In the case of a contemporary quilt, bring a list of awards that the quilt has received; where it has been published, and other pertinent information about the quilt maker.

How long will it take?

Usually an appraisal will take about 30 minutes per item.

May I bring more than one quilt?

If you have more than one quilt you will need a separate appraisal for each. When making an appointment, please make sure enough time is scheduled for the number of quilts you are bringing with you.

Who gets the information about my quilt?

All the information included in your quilt appraisal is confidential. Only you and the appraiser should have the information about your quilt’s value.

How much does it cost to have a quilt appraised?

Currently I charge $40 per quilt. I will appraise one quilt or entire collections. Please contact me about your specific needs.