Mamafrank-- I've never done a hybrid block as you describe, but I don't see why not. Give it a try and report back to us : ) It might become the next big thing in quilting, meeting the need for both authenticity and speed. Or you might find that the block was not uniform - I know my hand piecing (and yes, I have handpieced full sized quilts, though I prefer not to anymore) has a "softer" look. Could just be my handwork, or the fabrics I was using at that stage, or any number of factors I suppose.
Leslie -- give me a day or two to come up with a worthy topic to dish on : )
RST
RST