I've owned several antique crazy quilts from the late 1800s, including a set of blocks that was started and never finished. In all of them, the blocks were pieced on a foundation. The makers used every kind of luxurious fabric they coulds lay hands to, including silk cigar wrappers and campaign ribbons. Everything was embellished with embroidery and lace. I'd love to make one but doubt I could do fine embroidery now. Good luck.