Ummm. I took my very first piecing class in Albuquerque 25 years ago. Sounds like the same place LOL! The instructor didn't like my choice of fabrics ("too traditional"), didn't help me understand the concept of light/medium/dark for fabric selection ("I don't know why you have so much trouble with this - it is so easy!"). She did think my stitching was ok, but it was a hand piecing class and I was an accomplished embroiderer and therefore used to good hand work. I think I did two blocks and put all other quilting away for 15 years!
Hope your SIL doesn't get as discouraged as I did. Keep up your encouragement!
Pam