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Artist's Copyright FAQ: Copying a Fabric Design

By Marion Boddy-Evans, About.com

Question: Artist's Copyright FAQ: Copying a Fabric Design

"I just had a baby and when I was decorating his room I couldn't find pictures to go on the wall that matched his bedding so, I use the comforter to paint pictures. They were just pictures of jungle animals, but I really enjoyed doing this so, I decided that I want to try to do this as a little side hobby/job (maybe make some money since I am a stay-at-home mom).

If I were to paint pictures that matched baby bedding that I saw in stores, how could I go about that without violating a copyright law? Or does that violate a law?" -- Candace M.

Answer:

Every fabric and bedding design has been created by someone, and so logically the rights to use that design belongs either to the designer/artist or to the company who commissioned the work. Some fabrics are printed with a copyright notice on the border (and some even say the fabric can't be used for commercial projects).

You need to create something new and original. If you had the skill to copy the bedding onto the wall, then you've got the skill to do so. Create your own set of characters and own scenery. Start with one animal, and build it up from there.

Disclaimer: The information given here is based on US copyright law and is given for guidance only; you're advised to consult a copyright lawyer on copyright issues.

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