Yes, the $50 does seem like quite a bit. I asked for it for Christmas because I just couldn't spend the money myself. But I must admit, I really, really wanted it. The pattern picture is made with bali batiks, which I dearly love, but I think it would look good in other fabrics as well. I've made one other Judy Neimeyer pattern and really enjoyed doing it, although I think it was much easier than this one is likely to be.
Hope someone out there can post some pictures - maybe some advice.