IDENTIFY AND APPRAISE

The two questions most often asked about vintage lace and lines are “What is it?” and “What is it worth?” Thread manipulations and stitches are the clues that tell how any piece of lace was made. With a good magnifying glass, a good reference book, and a willingness to look closely, anyone can figure that out for themselves. I can show you how to determine the value of your lace or linen piece and what resources are available to assist you if you still need help.

Determining the Value

There are two different aspects to value in lace and linens. The first reflects the actual quality of the piece — this I call Intrinsic Value. The second reflects what someone is actually willing to pay for that piece in the open market. That I call Market Value.

The features that make a piece truly special are counted up to determine the Intrinsic Value. This includes design, difficulty of the technique, quality of the workmanship, rarity, and condition. This value does not change with fashion or style.

Sometimes the Market Value will recognize and reflect those features that give lace and linens true intrinsic value. More often fashion and popularity of a particular style alone will dictate what the market will pay, regardless of the true quality of the technique and workmanship.


		Resources to Assist You				Still Need Help?

Resources to Assist You