And being reimbursed the cost – then presented with the ” surprise ” boxes on the day – is one of the most satisfying forms of gift giving/getting there is.
It doesn’t do to be petty about it, or get bashful. Ask directly how much the giver wishes to spend and then go spend it. Select your own kits or tools or paints and get a receipt. Bundle it up with the goods and hand it over to the giver.
You’ll need to wait to get the goods back, and you may also be waiting to get the money back as well; your family is your family and you know them better than I. If you are at all doubtful that they will play the game just buy the damn kit for yourself and wait for the inevitable card and necktie on your birthday.
Don’t steam over it. Wait until theirs is due and then go out and buy them fabric softener or novelty socks. They’ll have warm, clean, feet and you’ll have revenge,
The Little World 
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