How to Buy or Sell — Textiles

The women’s movement in the 1960s and 1970s sparked an interest in the craft work of women from past centuries. That seems to have started the amazing rise in the price of old quilts, woven coverlets, samplers, and other examples of feminine handiwork from the past. The “country” decorating magazines added to the interest, and it wasn’t long before collectors wanted open shelves piled high with examples of quilts and homespun cloth. Quilts are hung like huge pictures on the walls behind beds heaped with white work pillows and covers. Paisley shawls have become tablecloths. All of this means that any type of old textile that exhibits some handiwork can be sold.