Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Craft copyright

I got a wake up call from a knitter a few days ago. She asked me if she can sell a hat I designed. I gave the pattern as a free gift to anyone that is interested to knit it for their personal use, and that is what I  told her. She said she is going to sell it anyway. Here is what I found on e-how: Crafts generally receive copyright protection under the "visual arts" category of copyright law. Copyright distinguishes between a useful item (such as a sweater or a clay bowl), which cannot be copyrighted, and the pattern or design of a useful craft and non-utility art pieces, which can be protected by copyright. Copyright is automatic: as soon as you design a new knitting pattern or necklace, you own the copyright. The U.S. Copyright Office offers a registration service, however, and for a fee issues official certificates of Registration that can be sold or used as stand-alone evidence of ownership in court. It means that your instructions (pattern) are protected, but not the items that are made from these instructions. I have to say that I didn't check the copyright issue before and I feel annoyed and disappointed. All my free patterns are not available for now. I'll keep you posted.

7 comments:

  1. Thats's a pity, but I understand your situation. I wanted to knit the Nae shawl. Could I buy the pattern?

    Thanks
    Monica

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    1. I'm truly sorry that knitters that respect any designer's request got affected by my decision, and I have to say that I'm a little shocked at what happened, mostly I had a really good experience on Ravelry. But for now I'm not selling my free patterns (I'm faltered by your question tho). I'm sure I'll make a decision at some point either to give them away again and live with the fact that other knitters are going to use my designs for their own benefit, or sell them.

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  2. ah, I forgot:

    I don't sell the stuff I knit or crochet. I give it to my kids, my family or I keep it for myself.

    Monica

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  3. Im truly sorry this has happened to you. Also that you have been hurt and you werent respected. I totally understand you stepping back and regrouping. Know that there are good folks out here that appreciate all your work and talent. Hopefully one day we will see your designs again. I for one hope you return if and when you are ready. HUGS :)

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    1. I know that most of us are kind and respectful, I just need a moment to make a decision if I'm OK to let the bad ones do what ever they want.

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  4. Wow, just saw this...the nerve of that person is unbelievable. So sorry to hear! Amy

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    1. She has patterns of her own. nothing is free tho, and they are not on Rav. Not sure why she sent me the message if she's doing it anyway. The problem is that she's allowed. I felt like there was a silent agreement and she broke it, I think this is the main reason I'm so upset.

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