I would tend to finds a novelty fabric or panels that reflect interests. I particularly like very large 8 point stars with square panel centers, although I don't see one at the moment. Adam's quilt is one of a pair I designed for my new step grands. My neighbor simply alternates large squares of novelties and plain fabric for her DGSs.
Of course, printing photos, drawings, etc. is also a great way to individualize a quilt.
Adam's Star
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Eagle quilt
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Horse quilt
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