Missouri Star has a tee shirt quilt video on YouTube that is very good. I've made a couple and also quilts for friends. The best suggestion is to have your friend purchase the supplies.
The tee shirts do have to be stablized with something. I used the fusible that is fabric & just got some more (with coupon at Joann's) but it's gone up to over $5 a yard! I've been thinking of other options & am considering just using spray basting to adhere them to muslin.
I would also keep the layout simple. I like to sash mine and use flannel for the batting. They still tend to be heavy.
Good luck & let us know how you're doing.