I think it would depend a lot on size which you didn't mention except for the fact that he'd be able to sleep under it. Also to me it would depend on how good of friends you are with him and his wife. $1,000 sounds like a lot to me with him paying for the fabric but then I've never done applique before so I don't really know. And I think Hawaiian applique quilts are extra special so it would be hard to decide. I'm sure someone who does quilting for other people will have answers for you.