Since you are looking for something other than a traditional nine patch, You can adapt most any pattern that uses charm packs . There are so many patterns available for the 5 inch precuts . MSQC has lots of videos for charm packs , and there are lots of free patterns on the internet . Just keep in mind that you will need to make more blocks to account for the size difference . If it were me I would probably just go with one of the quiltville patterns , I love the dancing nine patch or the split nine patch as someone above suggested . Also view the scrap quilt thread here for inspiration .
What a treasure you have ! And to think she probably cut them by hand !