IMO, as a "real" knifemaker, the key to the whole thing is to represent yourself honestly. If you buy a blank, put handles on it, mark it with your name, and sell it like you "made" it, that's dishonest. If you buy blanks, put handles on them, sell them at a reasonable price for handled blanks, that's OK, if you say that you only installed the handles. Your idea for a gift is a great one, and a good way to get started into the craft.