Our Appraisal Services

The following information is provided to help you with the appraisal decision.

An appraisal is a written statement of value that is determined by a review of the market in which your textile will normally be sold. A number of factors are considered by the appraiser. These factors will most likely include: the purpose of the appraisal; the current market in the geographic area; the textiles’ overall appearance, the reputation of its maker; its history (provenance, publications or awards); and the quality of workmanship including the use of pattern, technique, and embellishments. In the case of an antique textile, repairs or restoration will be considered. It is important that the appraiser know the purpose of the appraisal. The value of your textile may differ depending upon the reason for the appraisal.

A Fair Market Appraisal is the amount a willing buyer would pay a willing seller, both being familiar with relevant facts concerning the textile and neither being forced to buy or sell. People wishing to sell a textile will seek this kind of an appraisal. It is important to remember that a fair market appraisal is an opinion based on the individual appraiser’s knowledge and background and will reflect both the current market and the geographic area in which the textile is to be sold. It does not take into account the replacement cost, or sentimental value of the quilt. It is not a guarantee of selling price!

An Insurance Replacement Appraisal is the value given a textile based upon how much it would cost to replace it with one of 'like and kind'. An insurance appraisal will most likely be more than a fair market appraisal as it must take into account what you would pay to locate and purchase another one or have it re-created with like materials and workmanship. Many insurance companies require a written appraisal before accepting textiles as "scheduled property" on personal insurance policies. Without documentation of the value of your textile, you may simply be reimbursed for the value of the materials or the cost of a replacement blanket. Sentimental value is not considered by insurance claims adjustors in determining the amount of a loss.

Tax Donation Appraisal - This appraisal is for someone who wants to donate a piece (for example), or to establish a value for a family for an equitable distribution of assets. This is often the same as a fair market appraisal. It is illegal and unethical for an appraiser to inflate the value of a textile for a tax deduction.

Choose an appraiser that is familiar with your type of textile. An ethical appraiser will tell you if they do not feel qualified to appraise your piece, or if it does not merit appraisal. It is unethical for an appraiser to charge a fee based on a percentage of value. Under normal circumstances, they will charge you a flat fee, usually in the area of $35. The appraiser you choose should be familiar with the market in which your textile will normally be sold. An appraiser may be certified by a nationally recognized appraisal organization, and may be able to identify each detail of your textile, but may not know how to evaluate it for its worth. While it may seem obvious that a textile dealer is a good choice, if you intend to sell the textile this will incur a conflict of interest.

If you would like more information about our appraisal services, please E-mail us or give us a call at 888-817-6577