Since you asked about piecing the quilt top, I'm sure you can do that. My very first quilt was a king size as a surprise for my daughter. I hand pieced and hand quilted it. (No one told me I should start small! LOL) It took me over a year to do since I was working full time then. Ever since then, I have machine pieced everything on an old Viking, a trusted work horse that I love, with no problem. You might consider hand quilting it which would give you the chance to experience it, and make it a little more special for y'all. I love to do the hand work, but it is more tedious and slower. Just a thought! Good luck!