I have a really big question and I'm hoping that the designers of all of the wonderful things that I have been able to make are reading this and are able to comment.
I have come across at markets and on ETSY some "very familiar" looking creations. On further inspection the designer of these creations is not the maker and is not credited.
I'm going to use the Australian Softies book for an example here.
When a book like Softies declares in the copyright section "Copyright of individual doll designs remains with the creators" and (plus from More Softies) "Patterns are intended for readers' personal use only, and are not to be used for commercial purpose" this means that making from a pattern for profit is not just wrong but illegal right? Even if the designer is credited or not?
I know there has been discussion on other blogs about this and I have conferred for my own piece of mind with one designer and given my opinion on a few blogs but does something need to be done? I'm not volunteering myself to startup any campaign, but I will support any designer that feels that their design is being ripped off.
If at any time on my blog and Flickr I have not given credit when credit is due please give me a quick swift kick up the backside. I know I'm a maker not a designer and don't want to give the wrong impression.
This also includes fabric, not just softies, bags etc.
Glad to get that off my chest. Thanks
I like to make things!! This is a little space for me to record all the stuff I make. Hope you like it. I also hope to share my successes and failures as I explore the wonderful world of craft. Enjoy!!
Yer, I've wondered about that too! I certainly don't want my designs being copied, they take me ages to come up with, and I make a million prototypes before I get to the one that I'm happy with... I've noticed stuff from the Softies book in people's Etsy's shop, and thought "is that right?".
ReplyDeleteHi from Leanne Beasley (Leanne's House Designs and Patterns). Great topic! I personally do find that most people ask if they wish to use a pattern to make up products to sell at markets, etc. This is great and I always say, "Yes but please make a note that says something like, original design by Leanne's House". These days it's very easy to email the Designer and ask permission. Even in the back of magazines like 'Homespun' there's always a contact list. Thanks for the topic and hopefully you've made more people aware of important copyright issues.
ReplyDeleteHi Mandy. I saw your post on my copyright list. You're very welcome to link to any posts in my blog. Bear in mind, I'm not a legal expert and I don't pretend to me. I've just gathered the information that I've found on patterns and books and by talking to designers.
ReplyDelete