Yes, I have made a quilt with fabric and pattern I really didn't like at first. I made it for DD and after making a few blocks I showed it to her and said that I'd do something different if she didn't like it. She loved it, and the more I worked on it, the more it "grew" on me. It really did turn out nicely. I'd go with what the recipient wants but directing her as far as lights/darks, etc.