I would say, even if she makes something small, she should start simple. Anything a little complicated before she as the skills will get her disappointed and may not want to go on quilting. My daughter started at 13 with a 9 patch. She learned to cut, match corners, strip piece, coordinate fabrics, all in one project. She now doesn't quilt much because she doesn't have the time, but goes back to it any time she gets a chance.