Puffy Quilt

This is the first craft I want to start working on for the baby on the way :) If I'm successful I really want to make more!! http://lsp-projects.blogspot.com/2011/08/puffy-quilt-tutorial.html

It's so cute. I want to use a lot of different textures like corduroy and minky for tummy time. Have you ever made one before? I'm going to attempt it free hand-sewing since I don't have a sewing machine. Think it's possible? I'm going to price out everything this weekend. I want to get started really soon. The biggest appeal to me is that I can sew one square at a time and take my time.