Dear Friends,
I need to share some disappointing news, especially for those of you in the U.S. who’ve supported my work for years.
Starting August 29, 2025, the U.S. is eliminating what’s called the de minimis exemption. Until now, parcels under $800 could enter without duties or customs fees. That exemption is ending, which means every shipment, no matter how small, will now be treated as a full commercial import.
For me, that means:
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Even a sticker now requires a commercial invoice, manufacturer info, and a 10-digit tariff code.
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Couriers charge $5–15 in brokerage fees on top of duties.
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Shipping is already $20–30 for a small parcel, and added costs make U.S. orders unattractive.
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The rules keep shifting, and even carriers aren’t sure how things will work. If I get it wrong, shipments can be delayed, fined, or even returned.
On top of that, Canada Post keeps raising rates, and periodic strike threats add more uncertainty. Even eBay has stopped offering Canada Post U.S. labels, warning of returns. Customers are already reporting long customs delays, and when that happens, I’m stuck in the middle with no way to fix it.
The truth is, the extra costs, risk, and paperwork for even a $10 order just don’t make sense for a one-person business. I’d spend more time on customs than painting, which isn’t why you support me.
So for the foreseeable future, I’ll be suspending all U.S. sales, including calendars, stickers, and prints. I’m truly sorry to those of you who were looking forward to ordering this year’s calendar or adding to your collection. Please know this decision wasn’t made lightly.
I hope circumstances change and I’ll be able to offer U.S. shipping again. Until then, thank you for your understanding, and for all the years you’ve supported my work from across the border.
Cheers,
Patrick
