I've never been given anything like that for crafting (mostly knitting, some crochet) but have bought some nifty things for myself. I was once given some Icelandic wool by a UK friend I made some long fingerless mitts for; some really nice artisan yarn (hand-dyed maybe) is also a nice idea.

I don't actually know anyone else who knits, but wish I did, or that there was a group that meets. I'll have to see if there is.