A lady I know sometimes does some sewing alterations for me, she insists she doesn't want anything for doing it, I have offered to give her something so many times, that it is getting to the stage I dont want to ask her to do anymore, I have brought her flowers in the past, to show a sign of appreciation, but even then she says I mustn't and that one day she may need a favour from me, but I feel I need to get her something as a thank you, any ideas please.
Sometimes, people just want a ‘Thank you’ in words, and a knowledge you’ll do something for them when you can.
Maybe send her some chocolates, wine or flowers for Christmas.
Some people are acutely embarrassed by appreciation - it's the British in us - and I am sure you would not want to make this lady unhappy if your thanks, sincere though they are, caused her to be upset.
A nice token at Christmas, or her birthday if you can find out the date, would be an easy and less awkward way forward for both of you.
I think the politest thing you can do, is listen to her..day thank you and that you will remember it... but she is uncomfortable with gifts, so leave it at that x