I have and I backed the eyelet with the same color solid broadcloth then the batting and back. It was for a little girl and it turned out very pretty.

I would think you would want to use another fabric as a foundation to prevent the batting from being exposed that much. I know its a challenge, but you are up to it. Anything that nice for a friend is going to be special

I would of never thought of using eyelet fabric for a quilt but it sounds pretty. Good suggestions for backing it first though. Good luck