If it's to be a surprise, I'd go with something small like a table topper and make it a seasonal item. My thinking is that if the person wasn't in on the selection process (fabric and pattern) no matter how much the finished product may be beautiful, there is still a chance that it won't be in the recipient's taste. By being seasonal, she won't feel she HAS to have it out year round but you also get to see her reaction and pick up hints for possible future surprises!
Pat