For many Coast Salish nations, the point blankets led to the decline of traditional weaving skills as HBC blankets became more plentiful and accessible. 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. You probably won't need to pair it with a full comforter, but maybe some flannel sheets in the winter will be all you need. The condition of your blanket also matters when determining its value; if there are any tears or holes in it then it wont fetch as much money as one that is still intact. Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point She is a fun-loving person who loves to make people smile. British Columbia, Macleans (2017). Blanket from this educational YouTube video. These blankets were originally designed as trade goods, to be exchanged for furs with Indigenous people. The HBC did not commission its very own point blanket until 1779. The blankets were usually large, insulating, and thick. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'mostexpensivehub_com-medrectangle-1','ezslot_24',179,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-mostexpensivehub_com-medrectangle-1-0');report this adCopyright 2023 MostExpensiveHub.com, Why Is Shutterfly Shipping So Expensive? The blankets got their name from the number of thin indigo lines woven into one edge, indicating the size: twin, 3.5 points; double, four points; queen, six points, and king, eight points. The company is also responsible for introducing the now-famous Hudson Bay blanket to the world. Bay Company Explore this page to learn more The labor cost in producing a Hudson Bay Blanket is high because of the amount of time and skill that goes into it. | This Canadian-made blanket is made of the finest wool, and often comes from New Zealand. (See alsoWeaving.) If you are sensitive to wool, this might make a problem for your chin on cold nights. Nuu-chah-nulth nations tended to like green blankets, and in many Coast Salish communities, red. 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. They reflect the trading system for beaver pelts and the early North American colonies. Are Hudson Bay Blankets Still Made? This means that each blanket takes a great deal of time and skill to create. Theyll continue to provide warmth and comfort for many years to come. Do or don't: Pendleton Blankets. -There should be a label somewhere on the blanket that indicates it is a Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. Kay's grandsons, the three Bishop brothers, opened Pendleton Woolen Mills in the early 1900s. The wool is sourced from New Zealand sheep and the dyes are all natural, which makes the blanket more costly to produce. Pendleton is another option still a bit too pricey ($200/twin-size), then again I've never seen one, I'm guessing its not as heavyweight/quality as a hudson? Similarly, a rare or limited edition blanket will be worth more than a mass-produced one. Hudson Bay blankets are prized for their colorful stripes, which are inspired by the traditional blankets of the First Nations people. The Battle For Coziness; 5 5.A Brief History of Canada's Iconic Hudson's Bay Blanket - Mental Floss; 6 6.The HBC Point Blanket: a Canadian . Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. For some Indigenous peoples, the point blanket represents the forces of colonization. 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. 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 6-point Hudsons Bay wool blanket is a cozy and comfortable blanket that is perfect for snuggling up on cold nights. 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.. Today is rainy and grey in New York, so let's talk about blankets! Many people consider them collectible, making Hudson Bay blankets expensive. Secondly, they are hand-woven which adds to the cost. The history, quality, and process of production, the cost of labor, and exclusivity all contribute to the high cost of these blankets. This marketing cost is passed on to the consumer, making Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other brands. The high price is due to their durability. with Wool: A Coast Salish Legacy and the Cowichan Sweater (2010). Then there are the military (both domestic & foreign), cheaper yet . Voyageur blankets were made for French Canadian fur traders and are the least common type of Hudson Bay blanket. There are a lot of different aspects to think about, such as the color and pattern of the blanket, the fabric its made out of, and the size of the blanket. Hudsons Bay blankets are iconic. Because they use natural dyes, these blankets are expensive. Today, these blankets are highly prized for their historical value and their unique design. 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. While the HBC was not the first to create the point blanket, the company did popularize it among Indigenous and settler communities in Canada. You should always lay it flat to dry, out of direct sunlight. The answer to the question, Can Hudson Bay blankets be washed? is a resounding yes. You can safely wash a wool Hudson Bay blanket by hand with a mild detergent and a gentle cycle in your washing machine. It should be thick and sturdy not thin or flimsy. 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. Required fields are marked *. The thick wool is durable and incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add flair. First, theyre made with high-quality materials. Answer (1 of 2): I really shouldn't answer this question due to my bias in favor of my former employer. They have since become popular and are available in different colors and styles. You probably cant get em. But what is it that makes Hudson Bay blankets so special? For the white Europeans, the Hudson's Bay point blankets represented the fur trade and pioneering settlements of the vast Canadian wilderness. Because they can be washed and dried in a machine, taking care of them is very simple. Hudson's Bay Company, corporation that occupies a prominent place in both the economic and the political history of Canada. The durability of these blankets makes them a wise investment, and explains why they are so expensive. 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. To show their wealth during potlatches, participants cut blankets into many small pieces so that everyone at the potlatch would receive a gift. Occasionally, therefore, the wool used in the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket mixed with traditionally-sourced wool to form a new creation. ( 250) Fast Delivery. 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. This is because they are made from some of the finest materials available. It can also be dry cleaned in a professional dry cleaner, if youd prefer not to wash it by hand. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Hudson Bay blankets are made to last, and they only get better with age. $149.99. This iconic piece of Canadiana is known for its thick, 100% wool woolen fabric and classic design. The first step in identifying a Hudson Bay blanket is to determine its color and design. or Best Offer. It will usually include a yellow on white label, which is a hallmark of authenticity. Another reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so beloved is because of their distinct style. Downtown Hudson's Bay flagship stores in Canada are being downsized as parent Hudson's Bay Company strategizes real estate assets with an eye for redevelopment. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. Lastly, the company has a long history dating back to the 1600s, which gives them a lot of brand recognition and prestige. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. However, other colors may also be used. If its much cheaper than that, its probably not the real thing. The blankets are made at the Hainsworth wool mill, which has been in operation for over 230 years. Before the point blankets arrived in North America, Indigenous blankets were used in such ceremonies. 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. But with their high price tags, many people wonder if Hudsons Bay blankets ever go on sale. Hudson Bay blankets are traditionally made from wool. They have been used on other products, such as umbrellas and smartphone cases. Hudson Bay blankets have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. Last Edited. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. Hudson Bay blankets were originally solid colors with a distinct indigo band. Textile Museum of The history of these blankets stretches back more than 200 years, and an early one can cost more than . What Grass Grows Best in Shade in Georgia? Watch this YouTube video of artist Rebecca 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. Each blanket is crafted from one hundred percent wool and requires a significant amount of hand stitching. The British and early North American citizens used them to warm themselves and protect their belongings. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. Then, I used extra rinse to make sure all the soap was rinsed out. The blanket measures 90 inches by 100 inches, making it the perfect size for a queen bed. In addition, the blankets are made entirely by hand, which adds to their cost. They are toasty, plush, and comfortable to wear. What size is a 6 point Hudson Bay blanket. This short video provides more The capote was particularly popular with trappers as the wrap style made it easy to move and hunt in, while keeping them warm. Which is the Best Climber of All the Big Cats? Each blanket line is named for an Aboriginal tribe and has a particular meaning. Hudson Bay blankets, or points, have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. Many of these blankets date back as far as 200 years. Hudson Bay Blankets are among the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. Therefore, if you are looking for a genuine relic from the history of the United States, Hudson Bay blankets might be the perfect thing for you. 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? Hudson Bay blankets are also known for their striped patterns. Sylvia Olsen, Working Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny for one of these coveted Canadian creations! The blankets can be used as bedding, clothing, or just something to cuddle up with on a cold night. They can be machine washed and dried, making them easy to care for. This means that the company can charge a higher price for these blankets, and still find willing buyers. These blankets are marketed as luxury items, and the company spends a great deal of money on advertising and promotion. 110.00 sounds like a fair (not great) price if it is in decent condition. The bids for Krytzer's blanket climbed from its opening price of $150,000 to $500,000 to $1 million before topping out at Ellis's final bid of $1.5 million. When it comes to cozy blankets, there are two brands that stand out above the rest: Hudson Bay and Pendleton. 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 . In other Indigenous communities, the preferred design of point blankets differed. If youre looking for a truly unique and luxurious blanket, the Burberry Prorsum Poncho is a perfect choice. In conclusion, there are many reasons why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive. The blankets first appeared in trading posts around the 1700s, and they served as a form of currency. ; a half point measured half that length. In addition, there is still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts, despite the fact that their popularity may not be as high as it was in the past. many are a wool blend with a certain percentage of other fibers woven in. Later, traders introduced lighter blankets to suit coastal climates. According to the HBC, the hue and colour order in the famous white and colour-striped point blanket were not standardized until the mid- to late-19th century. Unlike many other blankets on the market, the Hudson Bay wool blanket does not have a smooth fabric liner sewn over its top and bottom edges. 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. Thinner, skin-friendly sheets were made . All Hudson Bay blankets are hand-loomed in England with the finest wool. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Masters Scholarships at University of Laval is current, How To Recharge Telkom Airtime 2023: Telkom possesses, The PDP Medical Form: One of the prerequisites that, Job Vacancies in Mauritius Post Office 2022 Are you, Capitec Learnerships 2023: Individuals who meet the, Scholarships for African International Students These, The Top 10 Best High Schools In Pretoria 2023: The. Although they may be expensive, Hudson Bay Blankets are worth the investment because they will last for many years. Each line has a different purpose, and together they create a design that tells a story. Our team will be reviewing your submission and get back to you with any further questions. 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Blankets are collectible too, and none more so than the famous Hudson Bay blankets of Canada. However, the reason for their expensive price is that there is a high demand for them. Hudson Bay blankets are both unique and collectible. Hudson Bay blankets are typically made from wool or cotton. Finally, the provenance of the blanket is also important. The rarer blankets are also more valuable because people want them more than others due to their uniqueness or history associated with them. Second, the age of the blanket is also a factor. 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. The thick wool fabric is resistant to wear and tear, and the tight weave means that the blankets can withstand a great deal of use. Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. Currently, these blankets are still made and available in a wide array of colors and quality. Even today, Hudson Bay blankets are seen as a symbol of success and prosperity. The yarns are twisted tightly together to form a thick, durable blanket. The Bay: This is probably the most obvious choice, and for good reason. If youre lucky enough to own a Hudson Bay blanket, you have a true treasure on your hands. The high price is due to their durability. So if youre in the market for a new blanket, be sure to check out the Hudson Bay line. The high price tag reflects this luxury status, and makes Hudson Bay blankets an excellent gift for someone special in your life. All Rights Reserved. Hudson Bay blankets are known for their distinctive design and language of points and stripes. There are several different styles to choose from, so you can find the perfect one to suit your taste. The blankets are also machine-washable and dryer-safe, which means that they will last for many years. So if youre considering purchasing a Hudson Bay blanket, keep reading for more information. Although they may be expensive, Hudson Bay Blankets are worth the investment because they will last for many years. Their uniqueness or history associated with them make people smile British and early North citizens! Youd prefer not to wash it by hand penny for one of these blankets are typically made wool. Of time and skill to create money on advertising and promotion you have complicated. Stretches back more than comes to cozy blankets, there are several different styles to choose,. Explains why they are toasty, plush, and they only get better with age the Best Climber of the. Originally designed as trade goods, to be exchanged for furs with Indigenous people in Canada cleaner! Inspired by the traditional blankets of Canada for this is that the Hudson Bay blankets are expensive... 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