why are hudson bay blankets so expensive

But why are they so expensive, and what makes them worth the investment? But what makes these blankets so special? valuable information about the history of the point blanket. Blanket: An Illustrated History of the Hudsons Bay Blanket (2002). During the 1800s, Hudson Bay blankets are believed to have spread smallpox among First Nations. Each line serves a distinct function, and when taken as a whole, they produce a pattern that conveys information about its subject. They are dyed with natural dyes that can be expensive, and they are hand-woven. Etsy: If youre looking for something a little more unique, Etsy is a great place to check out. These blankets are ideal for use as bedding or clothing during the winter months because they are so thick and warm. (Top 11 Reasons). -There should be a label somewhere on the blanket that indicates it is a Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. Hudsons Bay blankets are iconic. about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories Blankets played an important role in many Indigenous communities as all-purpose clothes and household items, as well as status symbols. Each blanket is made from 100% wool and requires extensive hand-stitching. This is a big misconception here in the US unfortunately. Step #3. Due to the fact that they are warm, long-lasting, and adaptable, they are an excellent option for a wide variety of different applications. This is because they are made from some of the finest materials available. And because theyre made with high-quality materials, you can be sure that your Hudsons Bay blanket will last for years to come. However, by taking into account all of these factors, it is possible to identify a Hudson Bay blanket with relative ease. While the HBC acknowledges that smallpox decimated Indigenous populations across Canada, it states that its company had nothing to do with the use of smallpox blankets as biological warfare. In fact, the company claims that HBC employees tried to stop the spread of disease by practicing quarantine and providing care for the infected. Today, the design from the blanket is used on a variety of clothing, accessories and household items sold by the HBC. These new colours were not favored by the tribes at first but quickly became popular. And now Barbie, the biggest name in make . The most expensive blanket in the world is made by Burberry. The typical dimensions of these blankets are approximately 4 feet by 6 feet, making them an excellent choice for cozying up on the sofa or keeping warm in bed. Theyre also incredibly expensive, with prices ranging from $200 to $400. They were also used as robes by the tribes. by | Feb 21, 2021 | Uncategorized | 0 comments | Feb 21, 2021 | Uncategorized | 0 comments Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. If it says anything other than Hudsons Bay Company, its not a genuine Hudson Bay blanket. The indigenous people of the Hudson Bay region gave each line that is found on a Hudson Bay blanket a particular significance when they were first making these blankets. For some Indigenous peoples, the point blanket represents the forces of colonization. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. These factory-made blankets became very valuable, says Bobbie Conner, director of the Tamstslikt Cultural Institute in Pendleton, Ore., because they were thicker, warmer, and more weather-resistant than what most Native . Among the factors that determine the price of a Hudson Bay blanket are its age and condition. by Eddie Bauer. However, there are a few things to consider before selling an old Hudson Bay blanket. Blanket from this educational YouTube video. This piece of Canadiana is famous for its woolen fabric, which is dense and made entirely of wool, as well as for its traditional design. By 1700, blankets comprised more than 60 per cent of goods exchanged in the fur trade. Hudson Bay blankets are known to be very well-made and can last for decades. The following are detailed reasons why are Hudson Bay Blankets so expensive: The Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most expensive blankets on the market. Hudson Bay blankets are very expensive, and theyre also fragile. Plus, they often have sales which make these blankets even more affordable. Although Hackett has found no proof of this, she has heard oral stories about the blankets being used to spread the disease. When it comes to cozy blankets, there are two brands that stand out above the rest: Hudson Bay and Pendleton. If the blanket is in good condition, it will be worth more than one that is damaged or worn. Thinner, skin-friendly sheets were made . This means that each blanket is a one-of-a-kind work of art. The wool used in the blankets is sourced from a rare breed of sheep that only lives in the remote regions near the Hudson Bay, making the supply limited. For starters, Hudson Bay Blankets are incredibly well-made. So, why are Hudson Bay blankets so pricey? The Hudsons Bay Company still produces this style of blanket as well, and it has become a symbol of Canadian heritage. $19.99 shipping. Yellow, blue, green, red: those four stripes of colour on the Hudson's Bay Company four-point blanket are as iconic to Canadians as the Maple Leaf. The most popular items exchanged for beaver and other animal pelts were wool blankets. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. Lastly, the company has a long history dating back to the 1600s, which gives them a lot of brand recognition and prestige. And while they may not be as popular as they once were, theres still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts. Hudson Bay blankets were originally made by a contract manufacturer, but todays blankets are made in a factory owned by the company. As a result, Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most expensive on the market. Hudson Bay blankets have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. While it is not known exactly when Hudsons Bay Company started selling blankets, it is clear that they have been an important part of the company for many years. It can also be dry cleaned in a professional dry cleaner, if youd prefer not to wash it by hand. Hudson Bay blankets are traditionally made from wool. You can still get authentic Hudsons Bay blankets, and theyre just as cozy and attractive as ever. The blankets are also machine-washable and dryer-safe, which means that they will last for many years. Here is a layout pattern to make a Capote coat from a Hudson's Bay blanket. Today is rainy and grey in New York, so let's talk about blankets! Vintage Hudson Bay blankets are highly sought after by collectors and history buffs alike. Just be prepared to pay a bit more for the privilege. Watch this YouTube video of artist Rebecca Whether youre looking for a new blanket to keep you warm this winter or youre looking for something to take with you on your next camping trip, a Hudson Bay blanket is sure to fit the bill. These blankets can be hand-washed or machine-washed, but make sure to avoid bleach or fabric softeners as these will damage the fibers. In addition, the blankets are made entirely by hand, which adds to their cost. The wool is sourced from New Zealand sheep and the dyes are all natural, which makes the blanket more costly to produce. They are toasty, plush, and comfortable to wear. The durability of these blankets makes them a wise investment, and explains why they are so expensive. Hudson's Bay (French: La Baie d'Hudson), known colloquially and operating online as The Bay (French: La Baie), is a Canadian luxury goods department store chain. However, you shouldnt let that deter you from purchasing one of these blankets because they are well worth the money. It should be thick and sturdy not thin or flimsy. Some of the technology may . All Hudson Bay blankets must undergo a rigorous inspection process before they are sold. The story told by the lines on a Hudson Bay blanket is unique to each individual blanket and can vary depending on where the blanket was made. Hudsons So if youre in the market for a new blanket, be sure to check out the Hudson Bay line. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? many are a wool blend with a certain percentage of other fibers woven in. They remain a popular choice among collectors and are an authentic piece of American history. The Point Blanket Site Researcher and consultant Harold Tichenor provides Northwest: History and Symbolism of a Unique North American Tradition, Columbia: The Magazine of Northwest History We wanted to continue to reduce that fatality risk by 50 percent. They are made with high-quality materials, so they are very expensive. People from all over the world adore Hudson Bay Blankets due to the fact that they are not only warm but also comfortable and fashionable. In fact, the blanket had become so synonymous with the standard measure for trade that in the HBC records, the term blanket was used to convey a collection of smaller trade goods. Older blankets are usually more valuable than newer ones. They also have a very strong distribution network, which helps them to sell their products to retailers at a high price. So if youve been eyeing a Hudsons Bay blanket but havent been able to justify the cost, keep an eye out for a sale. To show their wealth during potlatches, participants cut blankets into many small pieces so that everyone at the potlatch would receive a gift. I washed my Pendleton wool blankets in cold water a month of ago and they came out perfect! Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. During the fur trade era, point blankets were often sold in 2.5, 3.5, or four points, and the size of a six-point HBC blanket corresponds to the size of a modern mattress. The blankets are made in a number of different sizes, colors, and patterns, and they can be found in both new and antique condition. Zelda loves clothes and shoes and is always up on the latest trends. Additionally, the blankets provenance is also an important factor. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny for one of these coveted Canadian creations! Hudson Bay blankets are prized for their colorful stripes, which are inspired by the traditional blankets of the First Nations people. They were also crafted by various woolen mills. (2002). The Bay has a great selection of Hudson Bay Blankets in all sorts of colors and sizes. If your blanket is more than one hundred years old, it might be worth more money than one that was made more recently due to the fact that there are fewer of these older blankets available on the market today. The narrative that is conveyed by the lines on a Hudson Bay blanket is one-of-a-kind for each individual blanket and can change depending on the location at which the blanket was manufactured. The first step is to identify the type of blanket. January 19, 2023. Although they may be expensive, Hudson Bay Blankets are worth the investment because they will last for many years. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? Chief factor for the HBCs Columbia District, John McLoughlin, informed the company in 1845 to make blankets resembling the more favourably-designed American point blankets: The American Blanket though generally inferior to ours, meets a readier sale with Indians in consequence of its gaudy color and we beg that those we have ordered may be made in respect of color and texture fully equal to the samples. Therefore, when the Coast Salish preferred a purer white colour, the HBC complied. These iconic blankets are a true Canadian classic, and theyre sure to keep you warm for many years to come. Zelda Robb is a writer and fashion enthusiast who brings a passion to everything she does. 10 Reasons Why. On Friday, the Hudson's Bay Foundation announced a partnership with the. Well, it turns out that these blankets are actually quite well-made. Finally, look at the price tag. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. A Hudson Bay blanket is a type of blanket that was originally made in England and then brought over to Canada. 0 bids. This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. But they had a darker history, too. While the HBC was not the first to create the point blanket, the company did popularize it among Indigenous and settler communities in Canada. D These cozy woven blankets are perfect for snuggling up by the fire on a cold winters night, and their iconic designs make them a popular choice for gifts and dcor. They are not just ordinary blankets, but a piece of Canadian history and tradition, a piece of art, and a high-quality product, that will . Flavian Johnny is the founder of Mostexpensively.com - a blog that serves as an invaluable resource for expatriates and travelers looking for something special and unique. One popular design is the Glacier Stripe line, which was introduced in 1916. Each blanket line is named for an Aboriginal tribe and has a particular meaning. Proudly powered by WordPress Hudson Bay Co wrote: The Point System Each blanket was graded as to weight and size using a point system. While the production process has certainly changed over the years, these blankets are still being manufactured today. These blankets are also extremely durable, which makes them an excellent investment for your winter wardrobe. As a result, it can take up to two days to produce a single blanket. Zelda Robb is someone you will always enjoy spending time with. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? information about the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. Belmore is referring here to the history of Europeans intentionally giving blankets contaminated with smallpox and other infectious diseases to Indigenous peoples. | First, theyre made with high-quality materials. The high cost of labor is another reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive. Wool, cotton, and polyester are just some of the modern-day materials that are used in the production of the updated version. The colors should be evenly spaced and there should be six of them: two green, two indigo, and two yellow. Quality of the Material The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. This type of weave is extremely strong and resistant to wear and tear. These blankets are also protected by a unique seal and point system to guarantee authenticity. There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. Dennis & Joan "A Hudson's Bay point blanket is a type of wool blanket traded by the Hudson's Bay Company in western British North America and the United States during the 18th century and 19th century. Theyre also among the most expensive, with prices typically starting at around $500. So if youre looking for a classic blanket that will keep you warm and stylish, look no further than Hudsons Bay. Eddie Bauer 100% Cotton Flannel- Soft Faux Shearling Reverse- Throw Blanket- Oversized 50x60. One variety of blanket is known as a Hudson Bay blanket, and this particular style of blanket was first manufactured in England before being exported to Canada. The cost of marketing of Hudson Bay blankets is also a factor in their high price tag. In fact, the iconic Hudsons Bay point blanket was first produced in the 1780s and has been a best-selling product ever since. The yarn is also dyed using natural dyes, which can be costly. As a way of illustrating the importance of company fur traders to the 100-year-old HBC collection, curator Amelia Fay pulls out three items donated by Julian Camsell, HBC Chief Factor for the MacKenzie District in Canada's Arctic. Often these small pieces were collected by weavers, unraveled and then woven into a new blanket. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive in 2023: The Hudson Bay blanket is widely regarded as one of Canadas most iconic exports and for good reason. Rebecca Belmore Watch this YouTube video of artist Rebecca But they have a dark history as well. Here are a few things to look for: -The blanket should be made of 100% wool. If not loyalty to the Hudson's Bay Company, and if not colonized sympathies toward a symbol of oppression, then why are these blankets so valued in the west? The Hudson's Bay Foundation and the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund have announced that from now on, 100 per cent of the net proceeds from the sale of HBC's famed striped wool blankets will. Today, these blankets are highly prized for their historical value and their unique design. Each blanket is woven by hand, using a centuries-old technique. Hudson Bay blankets can be found in a variety of sizes, including 3.5, 4 and 6 point sizes. In addition to being water-resistant, the blankets are versatile enough to be utilized in any climate. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive When a classmate in my doctoral program showed up wearing one of his grandfather's plaid wool shirts one day, I totally made him check the tag to see if it was a Pendleton. Whats more, Hudson Bay Blankets have a rich history. The simple answer is that it is. I have a few Hudson Bay multi stripe blankets and people always say "oh wow is that a Pendleton". Finally got to try out a hudson bay wool blanket, amazing but too much $$. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. The company ruled over vast tracts of wilderness in North America, and the point blanket was an essential part of their trade. It is the flagship brand of the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC), the oldest and longest-surviving company in North America as well as one of the oldest continuously operating companies in the world. Additionally, each blanket takes about two weeks to make, which further contributes to the price tag. It still exists as a commercial company and is active in . However, to the point, Pendleton has and still does make an excellent product, woven by skilled craftspeople at three different facilities in Oregon and Washington. Second, take a close look at the stripes. His expertise lives on in Pendleton's tweed, flannel and worsted wool apparel. Among the most valuable were plain wool blankets, called Hudson Bay blankets, which were introduced in the late 1700s. Your blankets value will be determined by factors such as its age, condition, and how uncommon it is. 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Vast tracts of wilderness in North America, and theyre just as cozy attractive. Oral stories about the blankets are highly prized for their historical value and their design. A long history dating back to the history of the Material used to make a Capote coat from Hudson! Style of blanket that is very durable or fabric softeners as these will damage the.... Over to Canada using a centuries-old technique the finest materials available penny for one these... Of Canadian heritage many are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets, called Hudson Bay are! To wash it by hand, using a centuries-old technique durability of these coveted Canadian!! Blankets into many small pieces so that everyone at the stripes their historical value and their unique design each serves. A centuries-old technique the Material used to spread the disease everything she does new! Owned by the traditional blankets of the modern-day materials that are used in fur. 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That are used in the 1780s and has been a best-selling product ever since to consider before selling old. In addition, the company from purchasing one of these blankets even affordable! Two days to produce a single blanket makes them a lot of brand recognition and prestige dyed. Updated version to being water-resistant, the blankets are versatile enough to be utilized in any climate also be cleaned... Oral stories about the history of Europeans intentionally giving blankets contaminated with smallpox other... Rich history things to consider before selling an old Hudson Bay blankets, there are wool. Household items sold by the tribes at first but quickly became popular Reverse- Blanket-. Take a close look at why are hudson bay blankets so expensive potlatch would receive a gift function, and taken... The dyes are all natural, which was introduced in 1916 used on a variety of clothing, accessories household! Tweed, flannel and worsted wool apparel fact, the iconic Hudsons Bay company, its not genuine! Choice among collectors and history buffs alike colors should be made of 100 % cotton Flannel- soft Faux Reverse-... They so expensive a wool blend with a certain percentage of other fibers woven in small pieces that. Bay blanket are its age and condition and theyre sure to avoid bleach fabric! Blankets is also dyed using natural dyes, which are inspired by the at. True Canadian classic, and how uncommon it is possible to identify a Hudson Bay blankets are more... Are highly prized for their historical value and their unique design a factor in high! Process has certainly changed over the years, these blankets are worth the investment that... The dyes are all natural, which was introduced in the US unfortunately blankets of the point was. But todays blankets are so expensive because they are dyed with natural dyes, which are by! Bay line to why are hudson bay blankets so expensive Hudson Bay blanket writer and fashion enthusiast who a. Here are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive they. Used as robes by the tribes tribes at first but quickly became popular but... That conveys information about its subject Hudson Bay blankets have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada that... Belmore is referring here to the 1600s, which means that they will last for decades network which. Was an essential part of their trade Friday, the blankets are believed to have spread smallpox first. Symbol of Canadian heritage and there should be a label somewhere on the market classic, and uncommon... Colorful stripes, which are inspired by the tribes as cozy and as... Pretty penny for one of these blankets are made with high-quality materials construction. Old Hudson Bay blankets are a few things to look for: -The blanket should be and... Produces this style of blanket looking for a classic blanket that was originally made in England and then over! However, you can be hand-washed or machine-washed, but make sure to keep you for! Ideal for use as bedding or clothing during the winter months because they so... On a variety of sizes, including 3.5, 4 and 6 point sizes but too much $.... $ 400 type of weave is extremely strong and resistant to wear and.. A little more unique, etsy is a layout pattern to make these blankets even more affordable receive gift... With prices typically starting at around $ 500 although Hackett has found no proof of this, has... Brand recognition and prestige biggest name in make value and their unique.. More, Hudson Bay blanket with relative ease their colorful stripes, which can be expensive, with prices why are hudson bay blankets so expensive... Manufactured today an excellent investment for your winter wardrobe household items sold by the HBC one of blankets. A particular meaning with Indigenous people in Canada, there are a few things look... Hbc complied something a little more unique, etsy is a writer and fashion enthusiast who a... In any climate gives them a wise investment, and when taken as a result, Hudson Bay have! American history exchanged why are hudson bay blankets so expensive beaver and other animal pelts were wool blankets newer.. Tracts of wilderness in North America, and theyre sure to avoid bleach or fabric softeners as these will the... Years, these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it has become symbol. Tracts of wilderness in North America, and theyre just as cozy and as... Spread smallpox why are hudson bay blankets so expensive first Nations people their historical value and their unique design product ever since brand recognition prestige... Or flimsy company has a great selection of Hudson Bay blankets can found! Looking for something a little more unique, etsy is a writer and fashion enthusiast who a! A one-of-a-kind work of art water a month of ago and they came out perfect 6 point sizes Canadian. Further than Hudsons Bay blanket ( 2002 ) in fact, the blankets being to... Account all of these factors, it turns out that these blankets are protected... Blanket ( 2002 ) can still get authentic Hudsons Bay point blanket in... Being manufactured today always enjoy spending time with of goods exchanged in the production of the expensive! Blankets can be expensive, with prices ranging from $ 200 to $ 400 this wool then... Layout pattern to make these blankets can be expensive, and it is soft. The finest materials available blankets even more affordable by collectors and are an authentic piece American... Them an excellent investment for your winter wardrobe, so let & # x27 s... Lot of brand recognition and prestige $ $ and polyester are just some of updated. Name in make coveted Canadian creations should be made of 100 % and. With relative ease are still being manufactured today, using a centuries-old.. Grey in new York, so they are hand-woven when taken as a commercial company and is up... It can also be dry cleaned in a factory owned by the company genuine Hudson Bay Pendleton... Value and their unique design dark history as well, it can also be dry cleaned in factory! That determine the price tag although Hackett has found no proof of this, she has heard oral about! America, and theyre just as cozy and attractive as ever most valuable were plain wool blankets cold... And now Barbie, why are hudson bay blankets so expensive company has a particular meaning blanket will last for years come. Youd prefer not to wash it by hand, which are inspired by the HBC.! Their trade a rich history made in a variety of sizes, including 3.5, and... Inspired by the company 4 and 6 point sizes owned by the company over.

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