Although I know you want to preserve your great grandmother's blocks in their original form, perhaps you might consider carefully cutting away the appliqued pieces and then appliqueing them on new muslin or whatever background you choose. If there are some really special blocks, perhaps you could put them in a frame and display them that way; and put the rest into a quilt. Just an idea. I think you are really fortunate to have these blocks, I know my mother made utilitarian quilts, which unfortunately, were used, used well and used up. The only thing I have of hers is a pair of pillowcases that she embroidered. She taught me to embroider when I was 6 years old and eventually taught me to sew simple aprons, skirts, etc., but I didn't use a pattern until high school Home Ec. class. I hope some of the ideas from the QB members help you. You should be proud that you have that wonderful memory of her.