I like the Dresden plate idea, though you might want to wash and iron them first. Both ends of the ties would make nice plates. Any left over "between" pieces, use as "strip" or Basket pattern? And if you do them as "wall" quilts, they might be easier for her to "hang" and then store or give to the children (grand's?) as memory pieces. Good for you doing this for your friend. Every time she looks at what you create for her, she'll have warm memories of your caring ways!