Wow guys, I could hide and run away and hope nobody notices me,
but I have to be honest, I am totally guilty of this!

I had no idea it was an issue. I have sold probably 30 pieces
and had payment as a gift almost every time.
Not one person said anything to me or commented about it.

I will totally refrain from doing it from now onwards.
I hope nobody thought badly of me for doing it?
Is ignorance an excuse in this instance? lol

So do you still think that asking a buyer privately to pay as a gift
is uncool? Surely with an excellent feedback rating and
reputation in the forum its not a big deal? What about giving
the buyer the option to pay the fees or pay as a gift?

Its not really about the money to be honest. I just don't like
giving Paypal the money. I have an online business and they
get enough form me