Originally Posted by sewmom
That is very beautiful and what a precious family heirloom. Maybe you could find an antique quilt dealer/preservationist on line or in the phone book that could advise you this endeavor. it would be a shame to harm it instead of preserving it.
That is my thought, too. I would be afraid of doing something wrong. But if you go to an outsider, make sure that they are reputable. Ask for references and check them out.