Former talk-show host Johnny Carson once said on the topic of regifting, "I've had a theory for many years that there is only one fruitcake in the entire world and people keep passing it around."

With budgets tight again this season, more and more people are shopping in the backs of their closets through a stash of unwanted gifts of yore.

In a survey commissioned by The Patrón Spirits Co. (maker of those tequila shots you did at the office holiday party), 68 percent of people claim they've regifted a present. Respondents said lack of creativity and procrastination are the reasons for giving poor gifts. A poll conducted by Russell Research found that among gift recipients, co-workers were at the top of the list followed by family members and service providers. Why would importers and marketers of tequila care to research this etiquette topic? Advertising, of course. Their winter campaign suggests eliminating regifting and giving the gift of Patrón instead.

Ideally, we would all spend quality time looking for or making the ideal gift. But in our hurried materialistic society the challenge to find that perfect present may inevitably lead us to give something destined to be recirculated.

When regifting, don't confuse thriftiness with being tacky or lazy. Here are etiquette tips to avoid regift gaffes this season and all year long.

• When opening the gift in front of the giver, express gratitude no matter how deflated or confused you are upon receiving a cassette tape or car wash mitt.

• Do acknowledge the gift with a thank you via telephone or in writing, even if the gift doesn't complement you.

• Keep a written or electronic record of gifts given and received. Jot down the who, what and when for all occasions. Remembering who gave you what is vital if you regift.

• If a gift received will likely be stored in the back of the closet for decades, it is acceptable to pass it along to someone whom you think will enjoy it.

• The recipient must have six degrees of separation from the original gift giver.

• The gift should be unused and in the original packaging, and should be wrapped in fresh paper. If you have any doubt about its condition, pass it off as a hand-me-down.

• Items that should not be regifted include those which have been used, those which are expired and items from stores that are no longer in business.

• Decide if you want to be up-front with the recipient about the nature of the gift, and communicate it appropriately. For example, "I have too many vases" is much more kind than "This is hideous. I thought you should have it." If it is a very expensive gift, do tell the recipient it's a regift so they won't feel compelled to reciprocate. For example, "We received two flat-screen televisions and wanted you to have our extra one." The recipient of an heirloom gift, such as jewelry, will appreciate hearing how a piece has been handed down through the generations.

• An alternate way to rid yourself of unwanted gifts is to have a white elephant or green-gifting party where the express purpose is to regift with fellow guests. Just make sure it is outside the social circle of the original gift giver.

• For the unwanted gift that looks worn, donate it to charity.

Gift recycling has no environmental impact and is budget friendly. However, it should be done with careful consideration. There is a clear difference between regifting something likable and burdening someone by desperately improvising. I agree with Patrón's campaign to eliminate regifting, but December has a way of sneaking up on us and we're often left making snap decisions rather than thoughtful ones. To take the pressure off, I prepare all year long, buying whenever I see the perfect gift.

Just remember, whether you're shopping at the mall or in the back of your closet, your emotional and mental presence will always lead to the most meaningful gifts of all.

Contact Bizia Greene at etiquette@etiquette
santafe.com or 988-2070.