My vote goes to Carpenters Star. It only needs 3 colours & goes together quickly. All you need is a light coloured background, a medium colour & then a co ordinating dark colour. The pattern I found online says you can make the top in 4 hours (not counting the cutting) It is made with half square triangles & a very easy pattern with fantastic results (if you pick the right colour combos). Just google carpenters star &look for the 4 hour one. Hope this helps & prayers out to your friend & her dear mother.