Since Patrick asked the question on my blog, why have an appraisal done on a gift quilt, I thought I would address the question here also.
Here is an appraiser’s site to check out, and she lists a number of reasons for having an appraisal done. (She isn’t local, but they all seem to have the same list and info.)
I have appointments to have two quilts appraised at the Minnesota Quilt Show in Duluth in June: Pat & Patrick’s Irish Chain, as well as a star kaleidoscope quilt I am donating to our church for a raffle. The reason for an appraisal on the second quilt is obvious — for tax purposes. But why for a gift?
My original plan was and is to tuck the appraisal into a sealed envelope and give it with the quilt. It would be up to them if they wanted to open the envelope or just file it away or toss it into a fire (the envelope, not the quilt!). It makes no difference to me.
Patrick asked if it was necessary. Of course not, so maybe they will take the fire option (VBG!). It will still be interesting to me to see what a trained, certified appraiser thinks of my best work.
It has been pointed out to me fairly recently that quilts with special meaning tend to have more “value” (however you want to define it; I’m thinking mostly monetary value for this post). I think this quilt will have some unique family value (of course, I am a little biased). Patrick is of Irish ancestry, Pat is 25% Irish; they were married last year on St. Patrick’s Day; this quilt is pieced in the Irish Chain pattern. I mean, how special can you get??? I am still mulling over how I’m going to quilt it, and any longarmer knows how that goes. The quilt has to “speak” to you. I have a couple of Irish-influenced ideas in mind, though I dislike using templates and have been working on a freehand plan. I have purchased special thread, and the Irish Chain is waiting to get pinned onto Elvis. Then I will put on some Irish music (no, I won’t — maybe some bluegrass, or maybe some real Elvis). Of course, a label documenting the quilt will need to be made and applied, then the whole thing bound.
And because it’s a gift, no further pictures or updates until it’s gifted.
Sue
