From your description I would take out the hand quilting, and start with just the top and make a brand new start.

Absolutely remove the hand quilting and get a new backing and batting! :thumbup:

I'd put new on the quilt. A stain that old may not come out and then to the fabric could shred on you. Happened to me . All I had left was strings. :mrgreen:

i think the plan you have is the way i would go with it

I would take it apart , safe the top but then tie it since you don't hand quilt.

I would go with what you have planed. What a treasure you are saving. God bless. Penny

Thanks Jeanequilts for posting that question! I too have a quilt top that is partially machine-sewn and handquilted...was wondering if it's safe to put in batting and backing with it like this? This top was made like 10 yrs ago from a elderly lady in a nursing home & i would like to keep it as the way she made it with her own hands!

this did not have a backing on it.

I would definitely pick out the quilting and put a new backing on. I do not care for sheet backing anyway as they were usually a different thread count than the feed sack fabric. I also remember feed sack and flour sack fabric way past WWII. Good luck. A nice piece of wide domestic would make a backing more in character with the timeframe only they were not lucky enough to have wide fabric. It saves the seams and will be easier. They have it on sale at our local Hancocks from time to time. Have fun.

I agree. Good luck.