I am excited to think that perhaps someone can give me some good advice about my quilt blocks.
These blocks (15 of them that measure 16"sq) were made by a family member in the late 1800's and I would really like to make a quilt with them.
My questions is that some of the finishing hand work is not finished. If I finish these blocks (just a few undone) do you think it will distroy the antiqueness (if there is such a word) or should they remain in the unfinished condition.
Thank you to anyone who has an opinion.

I can't help you, but that is a very good question to ask before beginning! I am curious, too.

Welcome from Ireland

At the age of 77, I can tell you that should I get several blocks done in my own beloved crazy quilt, then can not finish them, I would want someone to finish what I had started.

These were probably made for a small lap quilt, since they are fancy and shows off the maker's ability to make pretty things. I think they were brought out when company came to show off, not used every day by 8 kids and pets. Looking at masses of old pictures that i'm going through to send to the younger generation, I can't say that I have seen any of the crazy quilts out on display when a lot of kids are in the pictures, but with a group of women, every fancy thing the hostess owns is on display to show off. Fancy tea sets, prettiest dress the hostess owned, fancy crazy quilt on a chair back, etc.

The blocks are absolutely beautiful. My mother gave me some blocks that she made in 1960/70. She told me that she would like me to finish what she has started. I am looking for the best way to do it and also asked input from my only daughter because she will inherit it one day. Welcome from Northern California (Born and raised in Southern California).

Finishing it would be a way to connect with ancestors -what a heirloom to pass down to future generations.

I would finish them. I think your family member would want you to. Hello and welcome from SW Iowa. Glad to have you here.

Welcome!

i'd almost want to mat and frame them as art. good luck!

Welcome to the board from Ventura County!!

Hi and welcome from Toronto...the blocks are very old..talk to a professional about how to finish them...a museum, or a guild, or someone who repairs antique quilts...

Welcome from CT

Thank you each and everyone for your in put about the old quilt squares. Your ideas gives me lots to think about!
Carron

Hello and Welcome from Germany!

Hi and welcome! Also in SoCal. Maybe you can lay them on black wool felt and frame them. Very pretty blocks and what a history.

Hello and welcome from England!

Hi from Ohio!

Hi Carron, welcome to the board!! If I get your question correctly you want to know if you would ruin them by finishing the handwork?? I don't think so at all!!!
If they were mine I would finish the handwork and then put them together and display in a special spot.
They should be enjoyed !! :)
They are so beautiful, glad you have such a wonderful family heirloom.

Welcome from Alaska. Beautiful! No clue how to bring it all together and not ruin the integrity.

I think I would simply lay them on a background, frame it (under glass) and document everything I know about them as they are somewhere on the back of the frame. The late 1800's? That's over 100 years old.

Welcome from Michigan.

Welcome from southeast PA!

Hello and Welcome to the board :D:D:D
I would consider framing them and hanging them up for display. :D

Hello from WV and welcome to the group
jazs2