Quilts as Collectibles

Like anything else, handmade quilts are collectible but how collectible, or valuable, depends on several factors.

Handmade quilts are collected for a variety of reasons including pattern, color, history, quilt maker, memories. Most private collectors save handmade quilts because of memories. They were made by a grandmother, mother, other special family member. Favorite handmade quilts include fabrics remnants from favorite clothes or each quilt block made by a different friend. Maybe the handmade quilt marked a special event, such as a wedding, anniversary, graduation. Bottom line is, looking at a handmade quilt brings back wonderful memories.

Handmade Quilt Patterns Can Be Collectibles

People also collect handmade quilts based on favorite quilt patterns and designs such as log cabin patchwork quilts and double wedding ring quilts. Some collectors specialize in fabrics. Handmade quilts made by a certain family, or areas of the country, can also be collectibles.

All-time favorite handmade quilt patterns over the years include crazy quilts, Baltimore Album quilts, and double wedding ring quilts followed by applique floral quilts.

Some Quilts Collected for Their History

Some focus on collecting handmade quiltsconnected with a major historic events or historic tie. Civil War era quiltsare highly valued because few survived. Handmade quilts usually associated with a family history are also collectible. When an interesting quilt design is added to the mix, along with who made it, the handmade quilt's value increases.

Feed sack quilts from the 1930s have become collectible because they were utilitarian quilts used every day so few survived. These practical handmade quilts made during the Depression were recycled flour, sugar and other "feed sack" materials made into handmade bedding, clothing and even underwear.

Charlotte