Tartan

I would buy one of those large gift boxes (Michaels?) that come out at Christmas that are kind of hard with a nice lid. I would then remove the paper pieces as carefully as possible and Modge Podge the whole box and lid with them. If you get a really big one, one of the quilts could go into it wrapped in acid free paper when it's done. Or you could do the box or a set of boxes for storage in your sewing room. I would keep the quilting simple on both the quilts because it will take a while to do them. Good Luck!

MarthaT

Thanks for those suggestions!

QuiltE

Adding my 2 cents FWIW ==
* ITA ... we all want those precious antiques to be worth a LOT, though often are not; being that you are connected to a pioneer settlement, it shouldn't be too hard for you to get an opinion as to whether there is any worth.

* quote with disclaimer/waiver ... good idea to CYA that an appraisal was recommended and they refused, also re the removal/disposal of the newspapers. That can be easily dealt with by presenting them with a quote of what's to be done, how you will do, and the agreed upon fees, inclusions/exclusions so there's no argument later, with the disclaimer as part of it

* wetting the newspapers may cause ink staining. The type of printing ink of that era came off on your hands. Some will remember reading the newspaper and getting ink all over their hands/arms or on their clothing. I have no idea as to whether with age it would have stabilized. Just beware ... you don't want to ruin it while in your trusting care.

blueangel

I would get it appraised.

mudsprite

OK - Here is what I would do. The papers show time and place and provinence. I would just quickly divide quilt into sections and photocopy all the pieces on a grid.

That allows authentication- shows history and what was happening in and around the area the quilt was made.

Additionally, copied on buff paper after white photocopies
could be framed hung on the wall above quilts on rack or in the rooms.

That way you still preserve the 80-90 year history and the copies of the pieces used to make the quilts as well as the quilt itself, satisfying yourself and finding a creative way to lend interest about the quilt maker and for future generations.

This isn't about museum quality quilts rather family history

jacqueck

Martha, the quilts are wonderful. But...they belong to someone else. Honor their requests, not necessarily what you'd do if they belonged to you. Carefully remove the paper that has dates and interest and put them in a plastic bag. Great idea. Toss the rest.

My concern is it doesn't seem that the cost-to-quilt has been established. I think you need to estimate the costs, double it, and then get a written agreement on how to finish, the papers, the borders, the amount of quilting, stitches per inch, a label, etc. Whatever you feel important -- including what's NOT covered. Sign the agreement with the quilt owners and then sit down, have a cup of tea and enjoy the wonderful experience of finishing these quilts. They are beautiful

donnai

if you intend to quilt the quilt you must remove the paper.you would think the paper would would disolve but it will not years ago someone made a paper pieced quilt. they gave it to my mom because they didn't want it

Amythyst02

Honestly I think you should just do as they wish. They belong in the family where they can use them and enjoy them, and share the history of them with their family and friends.

butterjoy

I wonder if you could just gently steam each piece and peal it off without soaking it? That way it could dry and be put in a ziplock bag? It will be time consuming but worth saving the "news".

mar32428

As a collector, I have dealt with people who are just nor antique oriented and there's not much you can do about it.