I got some really neat blocks from a lady on craigslist
her Mother was a quilter anyway some of the blocks
are Christmas and they have a ribbon border around them
well she cut them so close to the border I am afraid even a 1/4 inch will cut into them and look awful when put together . There is about 50 8x8 blocks and I just love them but afraid the whole scene will be messed up sewing them together - is there another way besides applique or a 1/4 inch seam?. I know stupid question *LOL*....Thanks Rita

Could you post a picture so we can see what you mean?

You could turn under a very narrow allowance, say 1/8", and then zigzag the pieces together. I don't know any other way.

Is the ribbon part of the design? I think I would remove the ribbon border and then proceed. I don't know what kind/quality of ribbon she used but some ribbons are real bleeders. You might want to check before putting them into a quilt.

You could used that 'no sew' ultimate bonding item, like wonder under but it holds so well you need not sew it. Any way, bond your squares to a larger piece of fabric then use that added piece to turn under to make a seam to sew onto another section. Hope this makes sense!

Or you can use fusible just around the edges, and blanket stitch/other decorative stitch them onto a block. Maybe use a metallic thread for this?
This method would keep the blocks softer than fusing the whole block down :D:D:D

Thanks everyone I will try and post a picture tomorrow.