Maybe if she had a specific project to make/do it would be more rewarding & she would be more inclined to experiment.Fore example, Are there grandchildren ? You cauld say "Susie would love a bath towel with her name on it . Can you do a onsie for the baby with a teddy bear? The kids would sure like their names on Christmas stockings."etc.
Once she gets going I bet she will love it and there will be no stopping her! You might have a look at
www.cuteembroidery.com It is a free forum with lots of free designs,tips,hints and "Cuties" wiling t help. You might even find someone who lives near who could help her with the first few steps.