When I make a quilt to give away to a family member or friend, I involve them in the process. First, I ask if they would like a quilt, (and I have had folks say "Thanks, but not really...") then I email them a few pictures of quilts I have made...usually about six that I enjoyed making. I have them select the pattern and then the fabric. I have had a friend in Maryland who was able to tell me enough about the fabric she liked that we build her quilt out of my stash. I have had several friends who bought their own fabric, with a "quilt recipe" from me in their hand.
I wanted to make a quilt for a cousin who was diagnosed with breast cancer (33 years old!!!), and when she said yes and looked at my sample quilts, she wanted one just like I had already made. I simply sent it to her. She wanted cheerful, and that is what she got.
What I am saying is that I want input from anyone who is getting a quilt from me. It works really well for me.
Dina