Today, these blankets are highly prized for their historical value and their unique design. What do the points on a Hudson Bay blanket mean? Similarly, a rare or limited edition blanket will be worth more than a mass-produced one. You should always lay it flat to dry, out of direct sunlight. Whether you drape it over your sofa or use it as an extra layer on your bed, a Hudson Bay blanket is sure to add personality to your space. The first point blankets were created by French weavers who developed a point system a way to specify the finished size of a blanket sometime in the 17th century. Theres no doubt that Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most well-made and expensive blankets on the market. Though the points on the blankets did not have an inherent value, merchants during the fur trade often priced point blankets according to the number of points on the blanket, with one point assigned for small blankets and four points designated for very large blankets. However, you should never wring out the blanket. Rinse the blanket three times to remove all the soap by swirling and squeezing it gently in the basin. As a 100% wool blanket, it is considerably heavier in weight than two of our old acrylic blankets. Hudson Bay blankets are expensive due to their exquisite quality and craftsmanship. Today, Hudson Bay blankets are still made according to the same traditional specifications and they remain just as sought-after as ever. Although Hackett has found no proof of this, she has heard oral stories about the blankets being used to spread the disease. They are made from 100% wool and are incredibly warm. Do you ever cuddle up with a throw blanket when watching TV or reading books? 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. (See alsoFashion Design in Canada.). One popular design is the Glacier Stripe line, which was introduced in 1916. information about the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. Content Summary. The blankets first appeared in trading posts around the 1700s, and they served as a form of currency. Vintage Blankets. That would make it a very, very expensive blanket - well travelled though. Among the most valuable were plain wool blankets, called Hudson Bay blankets, which were introduced in the late 1700s. 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. Each line has a different purpose, and together they create a design that tells a story. +2 Colors | 4 Sizes. 1. The most common colors are green, red, yellow, and indigo stripes, though other colors may also be used. However, the reason for their expensive price is that there is a high demand for them. Harold Tichenor, The Here are a few things to look for: -The blanket should be made of 100% wool. While the company has changed hands several times over the years, it is still in operation today and continues to sell its well-known blankets. The point blankets colors are an icon of Canadian style. Switch to the light mode that's kinder on your eyes at day time. The answer is yes! They are woven on looms with a tight, dense weave, making them resistant to wear. Each blanket is made from 100% wool and requires extensive hand-stitching. By 1700, blankets comprised more than 60 per cent of goods exchanged in the fur trade. With these factors in mind, an old Hudson Bay blanket can be a valuable addition to any collection. Hudson Bay blankets are distributed by Woolrich and offer the same style and design that has been so popular since the 1700s. These blankets are typically about 4 feet by 6 feet in size, making them perfect for cuddling up on the couch or keeping warm in bed. Hudson Bay blankets have been around for centuries, and can be a perfect gift for a Canadian friend or family member. Although they may be expensive, Hudson Bay Blankets are worth the investment because they will last for many years. You wont be let down in any way! Theyre made from high-quality materials, and theyre built to last for years (or even decades). So if youre looking for an authentic piece of American history, Hudson Bay blankets may be just what you need. Chiefs blankets were made for high-ranking Native American chiefs and are much rarer. Hudson Bay blankets have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. Finally, the provenance of the blanket is also important. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. From the high quality of the materials to the intricate designs, these blankets are truly luxurious items. Because the company invests a significant amount of money in advertising and promotion, the marketing cost of the Hudson Bay Blanket is significantly higher than average. This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. While this is a very expensive blanket, they have been around a long time for a reason. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? But what is it that makes Hudson Bay blankets so special? They are toasty, plush, and comfortable to wear. or Best Offer. The yarns are twisted tightly together to form a thick, durable blanket. For many people, owning a Hudson Bay blanket is a way of connecting with their roots and paying tribute to Canadas rich history. 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. Hudson's Bay Point Blankets were traditionally made in plain red, white, green or blue background, with a single bar (called "heading") of indigo on either end. Answer (1 of 2): I really shouldn't answer this question due to my bias in favor of my former employer. In addition, the blankets are made entirely by hand, which adds to their cost. 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. These iconic woolen blankets have been keeping people warm for centuries, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. Identifying a Hudson Bay blanket can be a daunting task. Originally, they were made for barter with Indians, and today they are a national symbol of Canada. You can still get authentic Hudsons Bay blankets, and theyre just as cozy and attractive as ever. Theres nothing like snuggling up in a Hudson Bay blanket on a cold winters night. Despite the high price tag, the Hudson Bay Blanket remains popular among consumers. These blankets are also extremely durable, which makes them an excellent investment for your winter wardrobe. Pendleton blankets have become popular over the years because of their warmth and comfort. by | Feb 21, 2021 | Uncategorized | 0 comments | Feb 21, 2021 | Uncategorized | 0 comments The Hudson's Bay Company (HBC), chartered 2 May 1670, is the oldest incorporated joint-stock merchandising company in the English -speaking world. (2002). Due to their high quality, durability, and luxury status, Hudson Bay blankets have a high market demand. Third, feel the fabric. Hudson Bay Blankets were originally created for use by the British Royal Navy. Well, it turns out, I was wrong. Firstly, they are made with high quality materials like wool and cotton which makes them very durable. Hudson Bay Blankets are a popular choice for many people because they are very affordable and they offer a wide variety of designs to choose from. 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. At first, a one-point blanket was worth one beaver pelt. Hudson Bay Co wrote: The Point System Each blanket was graded as to weight and size using a point system. Most Expensively 2023. they are excellent blankets in cold climates, as are Pendleton, and a couple other brands. They have since become popular and are available in different colors and styles. The short answer is yes. They are warm, thick, and cozy. The Bay: This is probably the most obvious choice, and for good reason. These blankets are still made today, though they are made of different materials, such as cotton, wool, and polyester. While historians arent certain of this, they have heard oral history references to similar practices. This short video provides more However, other colors may also be used. Hudson Bay blankets, also known as Point Blankets, are incredibly soft and durable. 10/4/15 8:52 p.m. Hudson Bay blankets are both unique and collectible. 2023 myheartliveshere | All rights Reserved, Premium Wool Blanket: Hudson's Bay Point Blanket. Theyre also highly collectible. They reflect the trading system for beaver pelts and the early North American colonies. His expertise lives on in Pendleton's tweed, flannel and worsted wool apparel. There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. 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. Here are a few of our favorite places to find these cozy blankets: Each blanket line is named for an Aboriginal tribe and has a particular meaning. And while they may not be as popular as they once were, theres still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts. Wool blankets in general, and especially Pendleton's, are very warm and durable. Its tough to put an exact value on Hudson Bay blankets because there are so many factors that can affect price. Yup! The labor cost in producing a Hudson Bay Blanket is high because of the amount of time and skill that goes into it. While the production process has certainly changed over the years, these blankets are still being manufactured today. For centuries, the Hudsons Bay blanket has been a fixture in Canadian homes. "They had to bring over water and . The blankets were typically traded to First Nations in exchange for beaver pelts as an important part of the North American fur trade.The blankets continue to be sold by Canada's Hudson's Bay department stores and have . Its manufacture dates back to the 1670s, when the Hudsons Bay Company was granted a charter by King Charles II of England. | Today is rainy and grey in New York, so let's talk about blankets! Finally, Hudson Bay blankets are also cherished for their history. Before the point blankets arrived in North America, Indigenous blankets were used in such ceremonies. Theyre also incredibly expensive, with prices ranging from $200 to $400. (Top 11 Reasons). Pendleton blankets, on the other hand, are known for their intricate patterns and striking designs. The history of Pendleton Woolen Mills is one of opportunity, exploration and innovation. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny for one of these coveted Canadian creations! Because each blanket is handwoven, no two are exactly alike. Point blankets were also sometimes used in the potlatch, a gift-giving feast practiced by various First Nations communities in the Pacific Northwest, including the Haida, Tlingit, Nuu-chah-nulth, Kwakwakawakw and Coast Salish. Find fleece prints & solid colors, no sew fleece blanket kits, sherpa & minky at JOANN. The wool used to make these blankets comes from Canadian sheep, and it is incredibly soft and durable. In the early days, all blankets were made of wool, which provided warmth and was resistant to fire. They are dyed with natural dyes that can be expensive, and they are hand-woven. The reason for this is that the Hudson Bay Blanket is produced in a limited quantity, which makes them more rare and sought-after. 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. They are made from 100% wool and are incredibly warm. -The blanket should have a woven selvedge along both sides. My . On Friday, the Hudson's Bay Foundation announced a partnership with the. First, check the label. 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. Hudson Bay 6 Point Blanket, Natural with Multi Stripes Brand: WOOLRICH 102 ratings $69500 Colour Name: Natural With Multi Stripes See more About this item Woolrich is the exclusive u.s. distributor Dry clean only Loomed in england 6 points woven to indicate size Queen 90-inch by 100-inch Buy it with + + Total price: Add all three to Cart History. about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories 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. They have long been a popular blanket in Canada and are sold at Toronto retail stores. 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. Secondly, they are hand-woven which adds to the cost. For nearly three centuries, the company played a major role in the fur trade, helping to shape the history of Canada. For example, the point blanket was originally designed for trading with First Nations people. In the 1970s, there was 1 death for every 350,000 passengers who took a commercial flight anywhere in the world. There are a few reasons why Hudson Bay blankets cost so much. As a result of their popularity, Hudson Bay blankets are often priced higher than other types of blankets. 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. The blankets were exchanged for beaver pelts, and the number of points on the blanket corresponded to the value of the pelt. The durability of these blankets makes them a wise investment, and explains why they are so expensive. So, why are Hudson Bay blankets so pricey? The companys Point Blankets have long been a staple of the Hudsons Bay Companys inventory, and they are considered some of the companys most valuable products. Exploring the most expensive and luxuary in the world. A good alternative for a little bit more money would be a Hudson's Bay Point blanket . If youre looking for a truly unique and luxurious blanket, the Burberry Prorsum Poncho is a perfect choice. 2023 myheartliveshere | all rights Reserved, Premium wool blanket, it out! Even decades ) blankets have been around for centuries, the Point blanket and sought-after colors may be! & # x27 ; s tweed, flannel and worsted wool apparel red, yellow, and be. 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