I would take another approach to this. You said your a beginning quilter - only made a couple. I would find a class that I would love to take and make a deal with them. Tell they you will make the class but as payment they have to pay for your class to become a better quilter.

WIN-Win situation

This is a good idea. Why is it so hard for us to accept an offer of payment or reinbursement for our good deed. I also think that you could charge them the cost of fabric and then a minimal amount for the labor. Then accept the money, say thank you and either keep it for yourself or you could donate it to a charity.

I first thought was take the money and donate it.
Some people are sensitive about accepting 'charity' or feeling as if they may be in debt to the giver. If it makes them feel better to pay, let them pay and donate it either in you name or in their name.

Like the check idea. :)

Everyone has give me some great advice..Thank you all..Its a hard decision when it comes to family and friends..If I took my quilts to a market to sell, I do not think that I would worry about adding a price to what I make..( after I become better at sewing :wink: ) Or even if my friends and family send others to me to make a quilt, than I would not mind being paid..I really like the idea about them giving the money towards a charity..That way, they would still feel like they paid me if they are remain adamant about it..Thank you all again so very much for the wonderful advice..This board is awesome !!

no matter what you decide, i hope you will thank your friends for having that much respect for you, your time, and your budding talents.

their offer and insistence show how much they care about you as a person and a friend. :thumbup:

Thank you Patrice..That made me smile and made me very happy..you are so very right..I never really thought of it that way :-)

And this is a really good answer.

Take the money and donate it in your friend's name to the heart association or another charity.

take the money and don't insult them by refusing. if you feel guilty then give the money to charity or use it in some way to make your neighbor more comfortable.

Sounds like this is their way of showing appreciation and respect for you, just as you respect and appreciate them. Accept it as they accept you are your quilting, with gratitude for having friends such as these. Bless you!