Pricing your work is never simple; there is no black-and-white, one size fits all formula. The hours spent designing, sourcing out materials, piecing, basting, quilting, delivering, and installing all need to be considered, as well as the skill and reputation of the maker.
Recently I donated a quilt to be used as a fundraiser and was asked to give its value. I think the price - which in my opinion was kept very modest - rather surprised the non-quilters involved. Here's a post of an interview with Caryl Bryer Fallert-Gentry on the same topic which I found interesting. This is from the Kentucky Quilt Project nine-part documentary series titled Why Quilts Matter: History, Art & Politics. The series takes a look at the unique position quilts hold, ranging from women’s studies to the contemporary art market.
(Edit: On the "Why Quilts Matter" site it was cool to see a stack of reference books with America From The Heart where my e Pluribus Unity quilt is featured.)
(Edit: On the "Why Quilts Matter" site it was cool to see a stack of reference books with America From The Heart where my e Pluribus Unity quilt is featured.)
Thank you Karen for this info. It certainly gives good insight into understanding the pricing of quilts. Gives me lots to think about regarding my own work.
ReplyDeletemfs
Non-quilters are always surprised when told the value or worth of a quilt, because they have no real idea of the work involved or the true cost of the materials needed. I would rather give away a quilt than sell it for a fraction of its worth. Our state guild has appraisers who will give a written certificate of value which is often done with fundraiser quilts. There's not much point in donating a quilt worth $2000 if only $375 is raised!
ReplyDeleteI have had people ask how much I would charge to make them a pair of socks. They are shocked by the price I quote (a price that wouldn't even come close to giving me minimum wage).
ReplyDeleteThe price should give credit to the skill and artistry of the maker.