Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point There are many factors to consider, such as the color and design of the blanket, the material it is made from, and the size. First, theyre made with high-quality materials. Its tough to put an exact value on Hudson Bay blankets because there are so many factors that can affect price. Turn a wool blanket into a coat. by chloe calories quinoa taco salad. It will usually include a yellow on white label, which is a hallmark of authenticity. The first step is to identify the type of blanket. Although they may be expensive, Hudson Bay Blankets are worth the investment because they will last for many years. $140.00. If youre looking for a top-of-the-line blanket that will last a lifetime (and then some), this is definitely the way to go. They remain a popular choice among collectors and are an authentic piece of American history. However, by taking into account all of these factors, it is possible to identify a Hudson Bay blanket with relative ease. 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? Occasionally, Coast Salish women would sew in folds and add borders to adjust the size and form of the point blankets for ease of use. So if youre considering purchasing a Hudson Bay blanket, keep reading for more information. Hudson Bay blankets are typically striped or checked, and each pattern has a specific meaning. However, you shouldnt let that deter you from purchasing one of these blankets because they are well worth the money. Following the selection of the color and the pattern, the next step is to choose the material that will be used. The simple answer is that it is. It should be thick and sturdy not thin or flimsy. Finally, the provenance of the blanket is also important. The Hudson's Bay Company (HBC), chartered 2 May 1670, is the oldest incorporated joint-stock merchandising company in the English -speaking world. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets so Expensive. they are excellent blankets in cold climates, as are Pendleton, and a couple other brands. Secondly, they are hand-woven which adds to the cost. The Bay has a great selection of Hudson Bay Blankets in all sorts of colors and sizes. The blankets are also finished with a thick fringe that adds both beauty and durability. 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. 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. 10 Most Expensive Fabrics in the World The iconic Hudson's Bay point blanket has a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. However, the reason for their expensive price is that there is a high demand for them. They are dyed with natural dyes that can be expensive, and they are hand-woven. The first thing you need to do in order to recognize a Hudson Bay blanket is to examine its pattern and coloration. Theres no doubt that Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most well-made and expensive blankets on the market. Amazon: Amazon also has a great selection of Hudson Bay Blankets, and they often have them at very reasonable prices. 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. The yarns are twisted tightly together to form a thick, durable blanket. But why are they so expensive, and what makes them worth the investment? Well also explore why they might be a good investment for your home. Youll pay a lot of money for a Hudson Bay blanket, but youll have peace of mind knowing that youre getting a quality blanket. Today, the design from the blanket is used on a variety of clothing, accessories and household items sold by the HBC. Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most expensive blankets in the world. Hudson Bay blankets can be found in a variety of sizes, including 3.5, 4 and 6 point sizes. $19.99 shipping. 1. From the high quality of the materials to the intricate designs, these blankets are truly luxurious items. The Point Blanket Site Researcher and consultant Harold Tichenor provides They have since become popular and are available in different colors and styles. (See alsoFashion Design in Canada.). Each blanket is made from 100% wool and requires extensive hand-stitching. To show their wealth during potlatches, participants cut blankets into many small pieces so that everyone at the potlatch would receive a gift. Wool, cotton, and polyester are just some of the modern-day materials that are used in the production of the updated version. Your email address will not be published. Find fleece prints & solid colors, no sew fleece blanket kits, sherpa & minky at JOANN. Capotes became so popular that, in 1706, the HBC hired a tailor to construct the blankets into these coats. 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. So if youre in the market for a new blanket, be sure to check out the Hudson Bay line. In 1811, a new style of coat was created using the point blanket: the Mackinaw, a shorter coat with a double-breasted style. Many of these blankets date back as far as 200 years. History. Required fields are marked *. In 1922, the HBC introduced its first commercial blanket coats, which had the doubled-breasted lapels of the Mackinaw and the longer length and hood of the capote. Among the most valuable were plain wool blankets, called Hudson Bay blankets, which were introduced in the late 1700s. Because they can be washed and dried in a machine, taking care of them is very simple. The point blankets colors are an icon of Canadian style. Marie, Ontario, too cold, and commissioned settler and Mtis women to create 40 coats for his men out of 3.5 point blankets. Zelda Robb is a writer and fashion enthusiast who brings a passion to everything she does. Finally, Hudson Bay blankets are also cherished for their history. A month later, the HBC commissioned the Witney mills a collective name for textile mills in Witney, Oxfordshire in Britain to produce 30 pair[s] of 3 points to be striped with four colors (red, blue, green, yellow) according to your judgement. (See alsoWoven Textiles.). If its much cheaper than that, its probably not the real thing. However, other colors may also be used. Even today, Hudson Bay blankets are seen as a symbol of success and prosperity. During the fur trade, the value of trade goods, including blankets, was compared to made beaver pelts (finished and processed pelts), not to blankets. Some scholars, such as historian Robert Boyd and artist and anthropologist Marianne Nicolson, believe that colonial authorities knew that smallpox would spread into Western Canada, and that it would help colonial authorities claim Indigenous lands without treaties or compensation. But dont let that stop you from buying one these blankets are worth every penny! All Hudson Bay blankets are hand-loomed in England with the finest wool. Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. I washed my Pendleton wool blankets in cold water a month of ago and they came out perfect! ". If youre looking for a truly unique and luxurious blanket, the Burberry Prorsum Poncho is a perfect choice. What do the points on a Hudson Bay blanket mean? The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. So if youre looking for a cozy way to invest in Canadian history, a Hudson Bay blanket is a great option! Hudson Bay Co wrote: The Point System Each blanket was graded as to weight and size using a point system. The blanket is made of 100% wool and is machine washable for easy care. January 19, 2023. 10 Reasons Why. Learn more about the HBC Point Many people consider them collectible, making Hudson Bay blankets expensive. These blankets are also protected by a unique seal and point system to guarantee authenticity. Theyre warm, durable, and versatile, making them a great choice for all sorts of different applications. In this blog post, well take a closer look at Hudson Bay blankets to see what sets them apart from other options. 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. 9. Sadly they no longer make blankets. The Hudson Bay point blanket has been an iconic fixture of Canadian homes for centuries. Every blanket is scrutinized for flaws, and only those that meet the highest standards are deemed worthy of the Hudson Bay name. Occasionally, therefore, the wool used in the Hudsons Bay Point Blanket mixed with traditionally-sourced wool to form a new creation. They can be a great investment if they are kept in good condition. Get it by Wed. Feb 15. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket. 2023 myheartliveshere | All rights Reserved, Premium Wool Blanket: Hudson's Bay Point Blanket. These blankets are often very well-made and can last for decades, making them a valuable investment. And today, it's roughly 1 in 8 million. D Point blankets were bought by Indigenous and settler communities alike to use as bedding, clothing, room dividers and fabric for other items. Today is rainy and grey in New York, so let's talk about blankets! They are made with high-quality materials, so they are very expensive. These blankets were originally designed as trade goods, to be exchanged for furs with Indigenous people. Do or don't: Pendleton Blankets. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. Hudson Bay Blankets were originally created for use by the British Royal Navy. why are hudson bay blankets so expensive. Wool is typically used in the production of blankets, which contributes to their cuddly and comfortable nature. Last Edited. 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 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 blankets are also machine-washable and dryer-safe, which means that they will last for many years. "Hudsons Bay Point Blanket". By 1700, blankets comprised more than 60 per cent of goods exchanged in the fur trade. 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 blankets are then woven on looms that create a tight, dense weave. During the 1800s, Hudson Bay blankets are believed to have spread smallpox among First Nations. According to the official company history, blankets had been taken to Hudson Bay as trade goods as far back as 1668. Yes, you can wash your blanket. British weaver Thomas Kay laid the foundation when he arrived in Oregon in 1863. But if youre looking for a blanket that will make a statement, Pendleton is the brand for you. Wool blankets in general, and especially Pendleton's, are very warm and durable. The origins of the iconic blanket began with fur trading in the New World. A Blanket so important---it even has a book written about it ! These blankets quickly became popular among Native Americans and settlers alike, and theyve been revered ever since. The blanket is also available in other sizes, making it versatile enough to fit any bed size. 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. Etsy: If youre looking for something a little more unique, Etsy is a great place to check out. In addition, the blankets are made entirely by hand, which adds to their cost. Older blankets are usually worth more than newer ones. Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most expensive blankets in the world. Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive because they are made with high-quality materials and construction. 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. They are made of high-quality wool, usually sourced from New Zealand. And while they may not be as popular as they once were, theres still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts. Theyre made from high-quality materials, and theyre built to last for years (or even decades). 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. Despite the high price tag, the Hudson Bay Blanket remains popular among consumers. Vintage Hudson Bay Wool 4 Point Multi Color Striped Blanket. Finally got to try out a hudson bay wool blanket, amazing but too much $$. Theyve been around for centuries, and they remain popular to this day. Thinner, skin-friendly sheets were made . But they have a dark history as well. First, the condition of the blanket is important. The modern version is made from a variety of materials, including wool, cotton, and polyester. The marketing cost of the Hudson Bay Blanket is high because the company spends a lot of money on advertising and promotion. The blankets are also machine-washable and dryer-safe, which means that they will last for many years. Hudson Bay blankets are both unique and collectible. Each line serves a distinct function, and when taken as a whole, they produce a pattern that conveys information about its subject. Hudson Bay blankets were originally solid colors with a distinct indigo band. They have been used on other products, such as umbrellas and smartphone cases. While historians arent certain of this, they have heard oral history references to similar practices. Why Are Hudson Bay Blankets So Expensive? If the blanket can be traced back to a particular time or place, it will be more valuable than one with no history. 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. Explore this page to learn more Well, it turns out that these blankets are actually quite well-made. There are few things as cozy and comforting as a Hudson Bay blanket. All of these factors make Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other types of blankets on the market. They are available in a wide variety of designs, so you should be able to find one that is aesthetically pleasing to you. Currently, these blankets are still made and available in a wide array of colors and quality. 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 . I used my non-toxic detergent mixture to wash and rinse the blanket in " COLD " water and GENTLE CYCLE. Then, I tumble dried it under "Air Dry" setting . 1. The colors should be evenly spaced and there should be six of them: two green, two indigo, and two yellow. These blankets first appeared in Canadian trading posts in the 1700s, and aside from. These blankets have been made in Canada for centuries, and they have a rich heritage that is deeply intertwined with the countrys identity. or Best Offer. In fact, a real one can cost more than an entire bedroom set. By 1929, the HBC launched a full line of blanket coats for women, men and children. Hudson Bay blankets have been around for centuries, and can be a perfect gift for a Canadian friend or family member. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. Additionally, the long history of Hudson Bay blankets makes them highly sought-after by collectors. They are made from 100% wool and are incredibly warm. They were also crafted by various woolen mills. Pendleton blankets have become popular over the years because of their warmth and comfort. Belmore is referring here to the history of Europeans intentionally giving blankets contaminated with smallpox and other infectious diseases to Indigenous peoples. The answer is yes! Hudson Bay blankets are known to be very well-made and can last for decades. Hudsons Bay Company (HBC) is a Canadian retail company that sells a wide range of products, including blankets. In addition, each blanket is hand-sewn by expert craftswomen, ensuring that each one is a work of art. 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. 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 made of 100% wool and have a rich history. In addition to being water-resistant, the blankets are versatile enough to be utilized in any climate. The Hudson Bay Company produces some of the coziest and most coveted blankets in the entire world. Explore presents the Hudson's Bay Company - Part 4 (3): Treasures of the fur trade. The Prorsum Poncho is sure to keep you warm and stylish all winter long. Here is a layout pattern to make a Capote coat from a Hudson's Bay blanket. They can be machine washed and dried, making them easy to care for. 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. In addition to being expensive, the blankets are also extremely valuable, especially the older ones. Finally, the size of the blanket must be considered. The production of a Hudson Bay Blanket requires a significant investment of both time and expertise, which results in a high wage requirement for the workers involved. These blankets are handmade, using a centuries-old technique. We're on the lookout for one to make our sofa cozier this winter. Shop fleece fabrics by the yard in anti-pill and plush fleece materials. Hudson's Bay Company, corporation that occupies a prominent place in both the economic and the political history of Canada. 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