I can't think off hand of any really BAD gifts but some of the most useless gifts have come from co workers at the Christmas "draw a name" events.  It's generally something bought because it's expected and not because that person knows your taste.  One year we had to write down several things we'd like and mine was something NOT on my list and something I had two of at home.  It's still in the box and will someday be a re-gift.

In my working years, 4 different times in 4 different jobs,  the person who drew my name didn't come to the Christmas party so while everyone is busy unwrapping, I'm sitting there thinking "why am I bothering with this?"  This year I'm opting out of the share a gift thing and refusing to participate.  I've suggested to my co workers that instead of exchanging gifts, we adopt a charity and collect toys for children.  If not, I'll take the money determined at work and drop in into the Salvation Army Kettle or buy a toy on my own to donate.   I do not need any more obligatory gifts.

D..it must have been fun unwrapping all those socks.  :-)

This year I put out the word that I want a jar opener...and not an electric one.  I also want a small tool set with ratchets and sockets.   I must have at least a dozen screwdrivers both flat and phillips..a handful of end wrenches but never the right one, a couple of pairs of pliers, channel locks, a pair of vise grips, two sizes of crescent wrenches, 2-3 hammers, rubber mallet, assorted odds and ends..but no socket sets.

This summer Mark was changing a headlight for me and had to remove a bracket.  I brought out two toolboxes of "stuff" and not the right tool in the bunch...or at least one that would get at the angle needed.  Mine are all moxnix.

Hum, my dad's parents gave me the following when I was a kid. Over the 4 or 5 years I got the following, a .99 cent pen, pair of socks (adult size for a 7 yr old), comb (I had a military crew cut),  used coloring book. My older brother was their favorite and they went all out for him, numerous gifts etc. So my parents finally told them ether treat us equally or nothing at all. They did improve a little bit.

During my teen years after I got some god aweful present, I told them to donate the money they would spend on my to some charity group, which would be far better.

From my own mother. Need I say more?