Where to Buy a Quilt

Quilts come in all shapes and sizes, and each is a work of art. Like other works of art, some are very valuable in the marketplace, and others are not. Others simply hold personal value to the collector. You can hold a piece of American history. Here are some suggestions on how to buy a quilt that is just right for you.

Where to Buy Quilts

Quilts are sold in many places. Here are just a few:

Department Stores

Quilts that are sold in department stores are usually made in a factory in a third world country. The inexpensive ones use lower quality of fabric that will likely bleed when you wash it, and fall apart after a few washings. If you want a higher quality quilt, there are other places to buy them. Yes, they do cost more, often much more, but they can become treasured heirlooms that can last for generations to come.

Other Places to Buy New Quilts

You may be able to buy a new or gently used quilt at your local craft mall, antique stores, and art fairs. To find one that is less expensive, try thrift stores, yard sales, and auctions, although it might take some time. At all of these places, you will generally find used quilts that could be antique, or on their way to becoming antique quilts. At these places, you can generally examine the quilt in person, and know exactly what you are getting.

Amish communities

When you go to an Amish or Mennonite community, you may be able to find stores or attend quilt auctions, where you can buy new quilts that are completely made by hand. Others are machine sewn but hand quilted. Many of these quilts are highly valued for their quality and workmanship.

Once you have found the quilt, review some considerations in buying a quilt. You can also become familiar with quilts by subscribing to a quilting magazine, look at articles online, or from books.

Online

Alzheimer's Art Quilt Initiative

The Alzheimer's Art Quilt Initiative was created by Ami Simms. It sells new, small quilts that will fit inside a letter size express envelope without folding. Auctions and other opportunities to buy are held throughout the year. Proceeds are used for researching a cure for Alzheimer's. Many famous quilt designers have made these small quilts, as well as other quilters who support the cause. It is a great way to get an affordable gift while helping find a cure for this horrible disease. Simply go to the site, choose the one you want, and make a bid.

Alliance for American Quilts

There are quilts that are made for auctions for other charities as well. The Alliance for American Quilts auctions off new quilts. The quilts are also small, about 12 inches square. These quilts are also made by famous designers as well as other quilters who support the cause. In 2011, the auction will be held November 14 to December 12. Click on the link to see the quilts that will be available in 2011. "The Alliance for American Quilts (AAQ) is a nonprofit 501c3 organization established in 1993 whose mission is to document, preserve, and share our American quilt heritage by collecting the rich stories that historic and contemporary quilts, and their makers, tell about our nation's diverse peoples and their communities."

etsy

Most crafts people will sell their work on etsy. You can buy many handmade items, including quilts from this site. Some of these crafts people will be willing to accept commissions and be will make you a quilt that specifically meets your criteria.

eBay

There are many quilts that are sold on eBay. You can buy new quilts as well as used or antique quilts. These quilts can range in quality of materials, quality of construction, size, and price. Be sure to read all of the description, and check the seller’s rating.

Please note that most quilt shows sell quilting supplies and let you look at quilts, but many of them will have a section that sells smaller quilts for fundraising for either the organization that is hosting the show or their favorite charity.

Once you know where to buy quilts, you will find quality quilts that will appeal to your tastes and your budget.