I started a group that makes prayer quilts for church members that are sick or having hard times. Many of these fine folks have passed on to the greater beyond, and many of them have had their prayer quilt either laying on the casket or very close nearby. In our circle, since so many have received the quilts, it is the "thing" to do.
Some of the quilts went with their owners, others were left to the survivors. It is a wonderful ministry and appreciated by all.
I can see no reason not to make a special quilt for your viewing. After all, maybe a beautiful quilt will distract the mourners from seeing "how bad you look". (Who is going to look good dead?) It is something that your survivors can have and to hold for a long time. Flowers will last about 4-5 days.