why are hudson bay blankets so expensive

She is a fun-loving person who loves to make people smile. 3. There are three main types of Hudson Bay blankets: trade, chiefs, and voyageur. These blankets are still manufactured today, despite the fact that the manufacturing process has unquestionably evolved over the course of the years. Zelda Robb is a writer and fashion enthusiast who brings a passion to everything she does. Hudson Bay Blanket is a blanket that has been used for centuries by Native Americans. In this blog post, well take a closer look at Hudson Bay blankets to see what sets them apart from other options. Hudson Bay Blankets were originally created for use by the British Royal Navy. They come in a variety of styles and colors that allow you to find one that suits your tastes. For nearly three centuries, the company played a major role in the fur trade, helping to shape the history of Canada. If youre looking for a top-quality blanket, youll have to be prepared to pay a premium for a Hudson Bay blanket. You can also take the blanket to a dry cleaner, but keep in mind that wool blankets are delicate and should not be washed with automatic machines. By 1929, the HBC expanded their variety of colours in order to make the blankets an essential part of home dcor. This means that each blanket is a one-of-a-kind work of art. These warm blankets are as iconic as Mariah Carey's lip-syncing, but some people believe they were used to spread smallpox and decimate entire Indigenous communities. 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. The value of your blanket will depend on its age, condition, and rarity. In conclusion, there are many reasons why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive. There are few things as cozy and comforting as a Hudson Bay blanket. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); 2023 Website designed by Eze Azu.ABOUT USCONTACT USPRIVACY POLICYSUBMIT GUEST POSTS, Most Expensive Calculators in the World 2023: If you, Capitec Universal Branch Code 2023: As more and more. defense criminal investigative service jobs near berlin; In other Indigenous communities, the preferred design of point blankets differed. Hudson Bay Point Blankets were heavy wool blankets made in the 1700's and 1800's to be traded amongst fur trappers in Canada and the native Indian tribes that lived there. Similarly, a rare or limited edition blanket will be worth more than a mass-produced one. Hudson Bay blankets are traditionally made from wool. I was wondering if anyone had either one of the point blankets and how you like them? 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. Blankets played an important role in many Indigenous communities as all-purpose clothes and household items, as well as status symbols. I have one that I bought maybe 30 years ago. Hudson Bay blankets are typically striped or checked, and each pattern has a specific meaning. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? These stripped blankets were created by the Hudson's Bay Company in the Northern part of North America in 1780. Each blanket is made from 100% wool and requires extensive hand-stitching. The high cost of labor makes Hudson Bay blankets some of the most expensive on the market. In 1811, a new style of coat was created using the point blanket: the Mackinaw, a shorter coat with a double-breasted style. According to the company, products . There are a few things you can look for when trying to determine if a Hudson Bay blanket is real. First, check the label. Hudson's Bay Company 60 by 90-Inch Twin Size 3.5 Point Blanket, Millenium. Hudson Bay blankets are expensive due to their exquisite quality and craftsmanship. These blankets are still made today, though they are made of different materials, such as cotton, wool, and polyester. Finally, the provenance of the blanket is also important. Rinse off all the soap, suds and bubbles. Theyll continue to provide warmth and comfort for many years to come. History. The cost of marketing of Hudson Bay blankets is also a factor in their high price tag. Come join the discussion about collections, gear, DIY projects, hobbies, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more! However, as the HBC moved out into the Pacific Northwest in the early 19th century, there were less beavers around, and therefore beaver pelts started to lose their value as the staple fur. However, you shouldnt let that deter you from purchasing one of these blankets because they are well worth the money. Pendleton blankets have become popular over the years because of their warmth and comfort. 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. You could probably buy several good surplus for the same price. 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. Amazon Basics Soft Micromink Sherpa Throw Blanket - King, Cream. For one, theyre incredibly durable. Among the factors that determine the price of a Hudson Bay blanket are its age and condition. Although a new blanket may cost up to $3,000, you can be sure that youre not paying a beavers life savings to create a replica. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. This item: Hudson Bay 6 Point Blanket, Natural with Multi Stripes. The thick wool fabric is incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add a touch of style. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. The most iconic design is that which is white with green, red, yellow and indigo stripes; these colours are now used as an emblem for the HBC. The wool is sourced from New Zealand sheep and the dyes are all natural, which makes the blanket more costly to produce. In addition, they are available in a wide range of hues and designs, making sure that there is something suitable for everyone. Your email address will not be published. Wilderness Survival, Hiking and Camping Forum, http://www2.hbc.com/hbcheritage/history/blanket/. [Top 7 Reasons] FOOD. Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most sought-after blankets on the market, and for good reason. Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most expensive blankets in the world. These colors are now considered Queen Annes colors, and are found on many HBC products. If you are then the cost of almost anything you can pick up is pennies a day or less over your lifetime. This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. First, theyre made with high-quality materials. Lastly, the company has a long history dating back to the 1600s, which gives them a lot of brand recognition and prestige. So, why are Hudson Bay blankets so pricey? Harold Tichenor, The why are hudson bay blankets so expensive. The 6-point Hudsons Bay wool blanket is a cozy and comfortable blanket that is perfect for snuggling up on cold nights. Free shipping on many items . One of the most popular items to come out of Canada is the Hudson Bay blanket. The production of Hudsons Bay Point Blankets is a true labor of love, and the result is a timeless product that is cherished by Canadians from coast to coast. Belmores. Do or don't: Pendleton Blankets. Theyre made from high-quality materials, and theyre built to last for years (or even decades). They are made of high-quality wool, usually sourced from New Zealand. It's still in good condition and I'm still happy with it. First, the condition of the blanket is important. ), Today, the distinctive design of point blanket strips has been used as part of the HBC Collection brand on products ranging from umbrellas to smart phone cases. This type of weave is extremely strong and resistant to wear and tear. The point blanket has become an icon of Canadian style, often featured in Canadian home and style magazines and blogs. The Bay: This is probably the most obvious choice, and for good reason. So, what makes these blankets so special? My . The first time any piece of cloth or bedding was called a "blanket" was in 1340, when Thomas Blanquette, a Flemish weaver living in England, developed a heavily napped woollen weave. It has a variety of stripes in various hues and each one has a distinct meaning. Though the reason for these differences is not certain, it is thought that certain patterns and colours held important spiritual meaning, as well as practical use. Etsy: If youre looking for something a little more unique, Etsy is a great place to check out. 10 Reasons Why, The 10 Most Expensive Leathers in The World, The 13 Most Expensive Tequila Brands in the World, The 10 Most Expensive Bugatti Cars in the World, Why Is Merino Wool so Expensive? Chiefs blankets were made for high-ranking Native American chiefs and are much rarer. This means that each blanket is unique, and takes a great deal of time and skill to create. Belmore argues that while the blanket is an object of beauty, a collectors item that belongs to the Hudsons Bay Companys history, it is, for many Indigenous peoples, still viewed as a trade item that once contained the gift of disease.. Curriculum They feature iconic four stripes embedded in a white background. Rebecca Belmore Watch this YouTube video of artist Rebecca Hudson Bay Blankets Have High Market Demand. The first thing you need to do in order to recognize a Hudson Bay blanket is to examine its pattern and coloration. 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. (See also Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples.) People desire certain blankets more than others due to the fact that they are one-of-a-kind or have a significant amount of history associated with them, and these blankets tend to be rarer. Each blanket is woven by hand, using a centuries-old technique. So its no surprise that people want to know: are they still being made? The blankets were originally traded for beaver pelts. So if youre in the market for a new blanket, be sure to check out the Hudson Bay line. On the other hand, if one is to take into consideration each of these aspects, it is possible to recognize a Hudson Bay blanket with a fair amount of ease.