From a Mom's point of view, I would love the gift certificate and the opportunity to go shopping with the giver. My out of state Mother-in-law gave me a certificate one year to my local quilt shop and I bought fabric and made a Carol Doak mystery quilt. As I made blocks, I sent my mother in law pictures and we were both surprised how the finished quilt looked. She remarked how much she enjoyed seeing the progress of the quilt and the completed quilt. It was actually one of the most pleasant experiences I have had with her in 45 years and that was a nice opportunity to see a different side of her.