I'm going to make a quilt for my DSIL who is about to undergo a long stretch of chemotherapy. I have the fabric and the general design but am wondering whether to make it a traditional lap quilt size (but not too big) or whether to make it longer, more shawl-like.

What do you think would be the best style/dimensions?

Any other hints? E.g., should I attach some kind of pockets for books or whatever?

Thank you so much in advance!

Instead of making pockets on the quilt, maybe make a tote to carry it and she can keep a book and whatnot in that as well. I think lap size is fine and she can use it at home too.

I suggest twin sized, chemo can make you very cold and you need the extra to wrap from head to toe. Also think about flannel or fleece for the backing. IMHO

How about a square equal to the patient's height?

how about 60 x 80 - big enough to cover up from head to toe - and maybe even over the head?

May I suggest, something big enough to tuck under her feet and under her neck. Something that someone else can "mother" her by.

Also a shoulder bag type tote. She might be to tired or weak to want to carry a bag. The "quilt" she will most likely fold up and hug against herself.

Sorry to hear she's going through this, you're wonderful for wanting to give her comfort.

So sweet of you to do this for her. Is no one gave her a small pillow you may consider that also. I had Mother make small pillows to go under my armpit while I was healing and a bit larger to fit under the seat belt of the car. Those items that wrap around the seat belt are not cushiony enough. Often folks make a heart shape 9" or so pillow. Those fit up under the armpit and in front. Ahhh, I remember how much the pillow helped while my body was healing.
Prayers for both of you.

Been there, done that, have the t-shirt (2 survivor tshirts now :) ) Here are my suggestions:

1. Make it long enough to tuck under chin to under heels.
2. Make is wide enough to tuck around her when she is in a recliner.
3. Use flannel as a backing and no batting. Make sure to wash the flannel in HOT HOT water and dry on HOT before you put it on the back. The quilt will need to be washed many times and put in the dryer as well. You dont want to make a heavy quilt. There were days when every thing hurt even the touch of a sheet. Having the quilt light would be best and easier for her to carry as well.
4. Put her full name on the quilt some where easy to see. If she is in the hospital it may accidently get put in the hospital laundry and this way it would be easier to return to her.
5. Take pictures of the quilt front and back before you give it to her...see #4 above.
6. I agree with the no pockets and make a tote instead that the quilt and a notebook and full size calendar would fit into. Its hard to keep all the appointments straight and what each dr/nurse/tech said.
7. My friend's 11 yo daughter wanted to make me something and my mom helped her make me a pillow. It is 24inches wide and 18in top to bottom. Just out of fleece with 4 layers of fleece in the middle and sewn around the edge(she hand sewed it had to use an ice pick first) I have been using it for two years now. I dont get in a car without it. I place it under the seatbelt and it keeps the seat belt off my chest and shoulder. My surgery site and area where chemo port would be located. It gets washed every week and is getting a bit "pilly" but it is wonderful. HINT. I had to tack the 4 corners and the middle of inside fleece after I washed it the first time because it rolled.
7. Thank you for doing this for her. You are all in my prayers.

Do so agree.

I make quilts and donate to cancer patients. I make mine 55-60 wide and 72-80" long. I have had no complaints and a few thank you cards.