I keep a book of pictures of quilts and use it for inspirations. An octagon table runner with pine trees and bears was an inspiration for a couch throw for my brother. They look nothing alike. Start with some graph paper and colored pencils. You could always sketch out something then applique it. Or you could do something in her favorite colors or depicting her favorite hobbies. You could also take 2 1/2" x 4 1/2" pieces of fabric, a fabrico pen and have her co-workers sign their names then work those pieces into blocks. If it's a small wall hanging then use 1 1/2x 3 and tell them not to write in the seam allowance. You could make the wall hanging with cream or white areas and let the co-workers write on it with the fabric pen at the party. You could do one using Printed Treasures or something like that and have pictures of her through out the years that she's worked. Wall hangings can be anywhere from 10"x12" on up to several feet. So the first thing is to decide on exactly what size then work within your dimensions. You could also take a favorite vacation picture and recreate it with fabric. Hope some of these ideas help. Whatever you do your mother will love it. Even if it's a tried and true pattern.