Thanks everyone for your advice, I appreciate your responses. It did turn out ok, I guess I just wish it was "heirloom" quality! LOL

I quilted this on a long frame rack while watching the 1976 Winter Olympics on television.
I don't remember constructing the top at all, I know it was cut with cardboard templates and scissors and machine pieced. The piecing is holding up well, it is the hand quilting which is falling apart. I wonder why the thread is going bad? Any ideas/ opinions?

I agree with the other. Repair it in the spots and just redo the binding.

I have a jacket that was made from an old quilt. Do you know someone who sews clothing? Maybe they could make you a jacket. The jacket has no buttons, but a collar and pockets. I've loved that for a long time. I've looked for a replacement and can't find anyone who does that.

I agree with the others. I would certainly display it. You could probably still use it but gently. Refold and put it on the foot of your bed or a guest bed or sofa.

Fix it. It is pretty.

I agree that it's beautiful, much nicer than your description led me to believe. I'd also just fix what's coming apart and use it gently. Since it doesn't fit on your bed anyway, it's more of a decorative piece now.

I'm in with everyone else. Just fix the parts that are broken and coming apart and put on a new binding. I'd, also, suggest you put a label on the back with the full story of the quilt, your name and the year you did it. That will mean so much to someone who has it in the future. These older projects are "very" special to us quilters.

Someone suggested you put on a new backing. Is the backing bad? If not, I wouldn't do it.

I have no idea about your thread question. A lot of people quilt with polyester thread because it is so durable. I've heard the rumors about it cutting into the fabric but have never seen it happen. I would think using polyester, although the cottons these days are very nice.

Great job on a first quilt.

I like to look back "at what I used to do". It makes me feel good when I realize where I am and where I came from.....I would just leave your older quilt "as is". Maybe I'd do a little repair, but not if I wasn't going to use it for more than memories.

I agree that it is a beautiful quilt....and would just do the repairs as needed. The suggestion to add a new back is a great idea too. I confess that i use a poly or poly blend thread for everything except pot holders. I have seen too many all cotton threads that have dry rotted.....maybe that's what happened to your quilting stitches??
Best of luck -- this is SO worth saving.

I 'm with the others--do minor repairs, but cherish it for what it is. It is a lovely statement of your talents back then, and still pretty today. Keep it for sentimental value. Perhaps make yourself a newer version to have as well~ just a thought.