To schedule an evaluation of your quilt, call Kim at
(217) 357-1133
or send an e-mail to: fmquilts@frontiernet.net
Visit my online journal Force Majeure Farm
for discussion about work in progress and restoration issues:
Begin An Evaluation
Free Initial Consultation: The evaluation process begins with an e-mail or a phone call to discuss the quilt. I will ask you to describe the quilt,
tell me what you know about it (for example, who made it, what it is made of, and special history or details), and to describe
the damage. Digital photographs are helpful, but not required. This initial consultation is free of charge.
Formal Evaluation: The next step is a formal evaluation. Upon receipt of your quilt, I will make a detailed analysis of the quilt, create a block-by-block
assessment of the damage, and develop a set of alternatives for treating it. The fee for this service is $35.00, plus shipping.
Choose An Alternative: Once I have completed the evaluation, I will call you to discuss it before mailing the final written report.
At that point, you can decide whether you want to proceed with a restoration and which alternative best meets your needs.
Shipping
Please do not ship a quilt to me without prior arrangement!
First, wrap it inside a clear plastic bag. The plastic will protect the quilt from moisture during shipping and will
be removed upon receipt. By using clear plastic, you avoid the possibility that, if separated from the packaging during shipping, it will not
be mistaken for garbage and thrown away.
Second, do not indicate on the outside of the package that a quilt is inside.
Third, be sure to insure your quilt.
It is your responsiblity to carry adequate homeowner's insurance for your quilt. You may wish to consult with your insurance agent
before shipping.
What Can I Do To Make Sure My Quilt Lasts?
1. Keep quilts and other important textiles out of direct sunlight and
flourescent lighting.
2. Avoid storage in wooden or paper boxes -- the acids released from these
items will stain the quilt. Quilts may be stored in acid-free tissue and boxes, but
you must keep in mind that the acid-free qualities deteriorate over time. Clean,
white muslin sheets are an inexpensive method of protecting quilts.
3. If you display a quilt over a wooden rack, wrap the dowel in aluminum foil and then
cover it with white muslin. This will prevent staining from contact with the
wood.
4. Clean quilts by gently vacuuming them, using the brush attachment. Place a screen
over the quilt to help prevent damage to the quilt. Be very cautious about wet cleaning a quilt; always do so by hand.
To learn more about caring for your quilts, free quilt care course
offered by the Kirk Collection.
To schedule an evaluation of your quilt, call Kim at
(217) 357-1133
or send an e-mail to: fmquilts@frontiernet.net