On the day The National Quilt Museum opened in 1991, our entire collection included 85 quilts that were on loan from the founders. Over time, our collection has expanded and today it exceeds 600 works of art. This exhibition highlights our newest acquisitions of phenomenal works of fiber and quilt art.

Why do artists from all over the world submit their quilts as potential acquisitions for our collection? First of all, preservation is always our foremost concern, but it is only part of the benefit of having your quilt selected for our collection. Secondly, the attention your quilt will receive is unbelievable. Each year our collection can be seen by over one million people, both in person and online; through our gallery and traveling exhibitions; print and digital promotions and publications; and educational programs and classes for children and adults.

Every potential acquisition is reviewed by an acquisitions committee of experts within the quilting community. The museum curator administers the process but is not involved in the decision-making. The acquisitions committee bases their decision on creativity, workmanship, innovation, professional involvement, and value to the collection. In addition, the committee only considers quilts made after 1980.

We are happy to consider your quilt for the collection. For more information, please ask to see the curator or go to the website, quiltmuseum.org/acquisitions. Maybe next year, your quilt will be on exhibition at The National Quilt Museum!