I would suggest you use a 40%-50% off coupon for Jo-Ann's and buy the Quilt Wizard. It is about $15 at half price and is made by the Electric Quilt people. This way she could play with the nine patch, log cabin, ect. chose her colors and see her project come to life on the computer. Plus the quilt wizard gives you the yardage estimates for each color. It is a wonderful little program and sold me on buying the EQ7 for myself.
I like the idea that she will see her choices before she sews so she will not be disapointed about her color choices. I would recommend you allow a little more fabric for her in case she makes mistakes with cutting.
Remember, 9 patch can be made 12 patch or 16 patch!