Dunster is right. But since it is old, I would hand quilt on the wrong side of the seam. That is I would stitch close to the seam AND on top of the seam allowance. I would be afraid the fabric is weak and stitching thru the top and 2 seam allowance and batting and backing would give it less pull on the quilt top fabric. And i would quilt it extra heavy for more stability.....just my thoughts without seeing the quilt.