Advise on where to find quilts, what to look for and how to display and care for them
Where to find them
One of the great things about quilts is that they are relatively affordable as antiques. Look for quilts in the $300 - $800 range - not so much money that you feel you can't use them. You can usually find them at estate sales, tag sales and on our website - wwwBwtAntiques.com.
Matching Your Style
Some quilts are very finely done and others are more folksy. Amish quilts are so strong and geometric that they can hold their own against abstract paintings. But even quilts that are more conventional can really do quite will in a variety of settings.
Displaying Quilts
To hang a quilt on a wall, baste a muslin sleeve along the back edge of
one side and insert a rod; crib quilts are a good size for wall
hangings. It's hard to find old quilts large enough to cover today's
beds, but you can just fold up a smaller quilt at the foot of the bed
for a decorative touch. Quilts in poor condition can be folded and
stacked in an open cupboard for a nice display.
Care and Storage
Some colors and fabrics fade or fall apart from washing. Before cleaning an old quilt, consult an antique-textiles expert; the Web site of the American Quilter's Society (www.americanquilter.com) is a good resource. When storing quilts, remember that light is the greatest hazard. Store particularly valuable quilts in a dark closet with the back facing out.
