Expert: - 1/25/2011

Question
I want to alter a pattern downloaded from the internet and use it to make market bags for sale. The pattern states the designers name and that the pattern may not be reproduced without written consent. The pattern doesn't have a copyright as far as I can tell. I can ask for permission, of course, but if it's altered by 30%, is it legal to use for sale? Thank you for your time. Gail Rianda

Answer
Hi Gail,

Thanks for your question. I am not an attorney. However it is my experience that when they say "the pattern may not be reproduced without written concent" what is generally meant is that you can't duplicate the actual pattern itself and is not refering to creating a product from the pattern and selling it.

Yes you can also ask - and yes you could alter it by 30%. I think what they really mean is they do not want you selling the actual pattern.

I hope this helps you - good luck with your project.

You may want to take a look at my website - I have many free articles that could help you with a sewn product business.

Love & Success!

Jane Button
http://design2marketsuccess.com
http://crafts2cash.com