How about a rag quilt, pot holders/hot pads (just require one block), or coasters.

Here is one of my rag quilts:

This one is simply 6 inch blocks put on a fleece back. The quilting is simply a decorative stitch done over the seams and around the edge.

beverly

Here's a very easy one! It's a simple 9-patch in graduated colors. I cut them 3.5 x 3.5 to end up with 3" squares and 9" finished blocks.

You can set the blocks in dozens of different ways. Use sashing like I did to separate the blocks or do it without sashing for a completely different pattern.

This quilt uses the same fabric for the light square and the sashing so the blocks come out looking like hearts. It's my 2nd Quilts of Valor project and I'm sending it off tomorrow to be quilted. I finished piecing the top in 3 evenings - can't get much easier than that!

My little helper here is McQueen (blond, with VERY blue eyes)

Kate

Pillowcases are fun and easy and what's great is your granddaughter can pick out her fabric fabrics to personalize it. Tote bags are easily made in a day as well and it's something she can use. If she's younger, crayon pouches or coloring totes, a doll quilt for a favorite doll or stuffed animal. Placemats are great to practice on as well. There are free patterns for most of these things online.

--Amy

Have you tried making a doll quilt? There are lots of books and patterns available and they are really popular right now, especially if she has American Girl dolls. My daughter and I have made some from kits and even found free patterns from some websites. Sometimes kids get inspired by helping you make something little that they can have for themselves when it's done.

If you bought a couple of panels suitable for babies, sandwiched them, then tied them with pearl cotton or floss, you could bind them and both of you donate them to a charity that focuses on children/babies. This would teach her an easy way to make a quilt and show her the value of helping others.

Thanks for all the ideas.
I have already made a rag quilt for her, but we are making a coordinating one for her "babies". We are trying to finish a quick one for the 4th....with stripes of red and white....and then one corner of blue.
They are easy enough for her to cut and help me lay them out, but so far doesn't sew very well.
I think we might try the heart squares too......would be cute in a throw pillow for her room!
THanks again for all the ideas!
Julie