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PAAQT – Who we are and what we do.
If you attend many
quilt shows, at some point you are sure to have seen one of us - either
behind a table or on the show floor. We are usually the ones with the
camera, tape measure, magnifying glass, and clipboard carefully noting
each detail of the quilt we are inspecting. Recently, a client even
referred to one of us as a “Quilt Detective”. The term actually is a
fairly appropriate analogy. We begin by examining the “evidence” of the
quilt before us, which includes the condition, workmanship, overall
design, provenance, and age. We arrive upon a value based on the
factors we have gathered in context with the appropriate quilt market.
In other words, an
appraisal is a written statement of the quilt’s value that is determined
after the personal inspection of the quilt by a thorough analysis of the
current market in which that quilt would normally be available. When we
are called upon, most of the appraisals that PAAQT appraisers write are
for resale or fair market value (when someone is wanting to establish a
value in order to sell a piece), or for replacement value (when one is
wanting to insure their quilt). At times we also write appraisals for
equitable distribution of property or for tax consideration when a
donation is being made.
On any given day
however, our job does not stop at appraising quilts. Within the PAAQT
ranks we have authors, teachers, and educators with knowledge that
covers almost every range in the quilt field – from history to
contemporary fiber art. Aside from teaching at guild meetings, seminars,
and quilt shows, often we are called upon by individuals to help
determine restoration possibilities, to discuss proper care, to assist
with accurate documentation, and as expert witnesses in civil matters.
One of the more rewarding activities many of us are involved in
assisting historical societies and quilt shop owners organize quilt
appreciation days that involve the local community in learning about
quilt history, quilt care, documentation, as well as quilt dating and
identification.
If you would be
interested in speaking with a PAAQT appraiser, please
click here
to find an appraiser in your area. Our organization exists
to provide a service to you.
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