Copyright and Fair Use of Patterns: What You Need to Know

Copyright and fair use of patterns is a topic that tends to make people uncomfortable, and understandably so. Some forms of copyright infringement have become socially acceptable, but that doesn’t change the fact that they’re still against the law. Think about it:

• Buying a music CD, copying it to a flash drive, and giving it to your coworkers.
• Reading a physical book, then passing it along. There's a reason Kindle books with sharing options cost more!

The issue of copyright is sensitive, but it’s something we need to address. If you have any questions about using my patterns, feel free to contact me. As the saying goes, assumptions are the mother of misunderstanding. 

I used the term "patterns" and "designs" interchangeably.  They mean the same thing - anything that is designed and created by myself in this case.

What Constitutes Fair and Honest Use of Patterns and Designs?

Myth: "When you purchase a pattern, you own that pattern, and you can share it or sell it as you wish."

Reality: When you buy a digital pattern, you're purchasing a license to use it, not to own or distribute it. It’s intellectual property. Personal use is permitted, but commercial use or resale is not.

Personal Use is Fair Use

When you purchase my patterns, you’re free to use them in your personal quilting projects. That’s the purpose of purchasing them! You can make quilts, patchwork blocks, and other items for yourself or as gifts.

Immediate Copyright No-Nos:

1. Selling copies of my files. This is illegal.
2. Sharing files with others. You cannot treat my patterns like a library. Everyone must buy their own.
3. Using my patterns in a class setting without permission. If you want to use my designs to teach, contact me for a separate agreement.
4. “Try before you buy.” This isn’t okay. If you use my design in a class or project, it should be purchased beforehand by all participants.

Mass Production is a Breach of Copyright

Mass production refers to making more than 10 items to resell using my designs. If you're planning to do this, please contact me to discuss a commercial license. This isn’t just for craft markets; it includes classes and kits as well. Using my designs to create kits for students is not allowed without an agreement.

Can I Change a Design and Sell It as My Own?

There’s a common misconception that changing someone’s design by a small percentage (10%, 20%, or more) makes it your own. This is false. Altering someone else’s work and selling it as your own is illegal and could lead to legal consequences.

Avoiding Copyright Breach

Here are the steps I take to protect myself:

1. Use only recognized clipart for digitizing.
2. Draw my own designs from scratch.
3. Stay away from other designers’ websites unless there’s a copyright issue I need to resolve.

Honesty and Ethical Practices

As we face tough economic times, it can be tempting to cut corners or share digital patterns and designs. But remember, design work is an artist’s livelihood. Sharing files directly impacts my ability to support my family.

Let’s all strive for honesty and ethical business practices. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask!