It's ok to say sorry, that is not my thing. It's not hurtful, it's honest.
I would rather someone tell me honestly that they didn't like what I got for them, than to put on a show.
I would also ask and find out what their likes and dislikes were before I made or purchase things for them!
I made an afghan one time, my brother saw it as I was finishing it - around Christmas time. He was the only one who made a comment - WOW that is nice! - guess what his Christmas present was. He now proudly displays it on his sofa at his condo.
The next year I made one for my sister - gave it to her Christmas - took me almost a year to make - King size. It ended up on the floor where it was never used and I think it was thrown out (not sure, don't care) If she did throw it out, she was not thinking. Reciently she and her hubby have been complaining how chilly it is in their basement, hmmmmm that nice thick afghan would be nice n warm huh?
The colors went with her decor too.
Point is, you have no control over how others choose to react.