Thanks Annya,
I agree that she is a flexible lady, so would certainly not complain about the finish or the gift. Still, when she shares it with others in her home, I want her to be as proud of her work as she should be after all those years. She has just bought a newer tiny house & has listed the home of 35 years built by husband & son; it must feel very sad as she is living alone now. She's selling so many of their life's treasures. She's a little more practical than my own mother, who needs to leave the 2 story behind before she breaks a hip like grandma did, then never gets to move home again.
My DH & I were given quilts from both of our mothers at our wedding, & they are both still going strong after 25 years. Both were tied @ about 5" spacing, with minimal quilting. My mother told me to feel free to FMQ the quilt she gave us, for practice with different designs. I think I would want to have a little more FMQ experience before I would take a chance on those keepsake quilts. Wouldn't you?