So many great ideals..I did notice you mentioned $ being a slight concern.... So the idea/site someone posted a few pages back for making the 30$ wooden, extra big ironing board cover is a great idea = ironing done in half the time..
Knowing the cost of fabric is already increasing and reports say will go up again drastically at the first of the year..I think buying 3 yrds of different solid fabrics is a great idea..White-cream and black,great choices..
A retreat might not be in your budget (no idea how much that would cost) but buying or promising her tickets to the next quilt show but also telling her you want to go with her ( and at least act like your loving it lmao) would mean so much if it were me... Or my hubby telling me he'd iron my seams if I show him how I want it done, while I can just sew...I mean anything that shows you appreciate/ take an interest in her quilting is just very kewl..
But my favorite has to be a Quilting charm bracelet or necklace.. I mean you have jewelry/quilting/conversation starter all in one, whats not to love lol..And she'd think of you everytime she glanced at it.. You could start her off with one or two charms to keep the $ down and you'd be able to get her a new charm for every future occasion lol......::pause::.... heck, I want one!...Now I just have to find quilting charms and email it to hubby lmao