Any time you're in business, at some point you're going to run into someone who wants something for nothing. My DH (who died in 2004) was a cabinet maker, really skilled in woodworking. He was frequently approached by building contractors who wanted him to make cabinets for a price that was less than the cost of the materials alone. We always refused those jobs -- what good is it to work yourself silly for a job that's a "lose-lose" situation from beginning to end. Yes, you were in business, but you're in business to make money, not give your labor away! I think I would probably would have suggested she go elsewhere, particularly after seeing the quilt top with all the cords, etc.
Jeanette