i don't think you should worry about being pushy.
the truth is that you are being pushed. :lol:
select three patterns you think you can make successfully. "surprise" her by letting her choose which of those three patterns she likes best. stear her toward fabrics that fit your budget.
i'm not suggesting you be at all nasty or negative about it. just make sure to be gently and lovingly honest as each stage of the subject comes up. that way, you'll enjoy making it as much as she enjoys having it. ;-)