as a child-with a single mom struggling to keep 5 kids clothed & fed- we were taught to make gifts- I was probably in my 30's before i actually *shopped* for a gift for someone in my family-
i'm in my 50's now- and myself and my siblings & mom all still make gifts for each other- I also belong to a couple different sewing groups and forums that make gifts for each other- one sewing group we draw numbers at holiday time and make a gift for whom ever we draw- one forum the secret sister program we send a (hand made) gift each month- ect...sometimes it's ok to send something that is store bought too-but something you make has to be included---so, yes, i receive many *handmade* gifts---table toppers, coasters, postcards, placemats, aprons, fabric bowls, boxes, rugs, wallhangings, totes/purses/wallets, sewing kits, pincushions...among many others are all items i have received over the years.