If someone would like to make quilted items for family, friends, or acquaintances there are many options. Placemats, potholders, coasters, wall hangings, kitchen towels, wallets, eye glass holders, totes, and purses are all lower cost options. We should only make quilts for those we choose to, not for those who has required us to. Quilting should be a labor of love not a requirement to show love.
You are all right in saying most people have no idea how much time and money goes into each quilt. Those same people who have asked for a quilt probably would not spend that amount of money on a quilt for themselves.
I wouldn't usally give gifts that cost more than $50 per person. A lap quilt could surpass that amount easily. I wouldn't be able to afford to quilt if I did that on a regular basis.
Happy New Year!
Lisa