Recently, I received a couple email requests for quilt designs featured in a magazine that no longer exists. Both shop owners wanted to know where they could find the pattern because they wanted to use it in their beginner quilt classes.
I had to do some fast research to find out if I owned the copyright to my patterns or if the now-dead magazine owned them. So I went right to my friend, the former magazine editor, with my question and discovered that I did, indeed, own the copyright to my patterns.
This was great news, because then all I had to do was rewrite and package the patterns for resale.
Navigating copyright law is no easy business, that's for sure. I'm always concerned that I'm going to make a mistake, so it's always a good idea to ask before one assumes. It could save you not only time in the future but also money.
I know that I've referred to this old blog post several times, but it's really a terrific article and worth rereading. Here's the link: Copyright for Quilters
Take a look at it. The article was written by my friend and mentor, Cheryl Weiderspahn. Thank you, Cheryl!
We had a discussion about this at quilt guild last week. I said I'd be happy to have a class on something that I've learned how to make, but, I wouldn't 'give' them the pattern, they would have to purchase the pattern. One lady (who frequently copies any pattern that comes her way) took offense at this. Surprising, since her hubby is a lawyer. I had to explain that selling patterns is how this lady makes her living. That someone who goes to work, expects a paycheck, unless they volunteer. I teach 'free' things all the time at guild, but, I provide them with a handout, with where I got the info from, to give the first person credit.
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