I have a quilt that my grandmother made sometime in the 90s. So technically it's not an antique. But, she used a fabric that is not 100% cotton, and almost every seam involved with that fabric is coming apart because it is fraying. I was thinking I could just hand stitch to repair the blocks, but after seeing the fraying, I know its just going to continue and I'll be doing this again very soon.
I think now I'm going to need to replace that fabric. I read several things online about just appliqueing a new patch on top of the damaged piece? Is this the easiest/best option? I'm a bit afraid of trying to take the blocks apart, 1) because they're not pieced evenly, which means I would basically be making a new quilt and 2) I get the idea I'm supposed to maintain whatever stability and integrity the quilt has to begin with. This was my grandmothers first and only quilt, as noted by the uneven seams and block piecing. It is not a scrap quilt, so I will be replacing about 1/10 of the fabric in the quilt top.
I need some ideas!! This will be my first quilt repair!! I want to be able to continue to use the quilt for years to come, as its very warm and snuggly. And I cannot afford to hire someone to do it for me, so please don't suggest it. I have the time and determination to do this.