I think this is way too much time spent on this. Draw your own pattern, digitize it and do as you wish. How can you copyright a heart?! While I agree with and abide by the copyright issues, in this case I think it does not apply. Hugs. Nan W
The heart shape cannot be copyrighted. The way it ties on top can. It is important for all digitizers to make sure they have the needed permissions -- if they choose to use someone else's idea.
I've now had a reply from the Guild of Quilters of Contra Costa County saying they would be happy for me to digitise the pattern they have on their website. Is that enough?
If they have given you permission to use their pattern from their legitimate website -- then that should be enough. I noticed there were many different ways to construct one as I was searching. I do hope they did what they needed to do concerning copyright. That said, it seems you have done what is expected of you.
Here's some interesting reading...
Cuties , while this may be interesting reading -- please make sure you are not relying on a website for copyright information. You should read the copyright laws as they apply to your situation or consult a qualified attorney.
Sue this pattern looks really familiar to me, from a time long ago (the 50's) when it was made as a carry purse or beach bag?
Perhaps some of the older Cuties will remember it as a bag too.
I will check my old Enid Gilchrist books tomorrow and see if that is where it is.
Hugs n roses, Meganne
Now that you mention it, i remember those bags. Funny how those old patterns turn up in a new, smaller ITH size.
My cousin had one as a bridal bag, with a zip about half of the length of the triangle top, points sewn together and a fabric rose to decorate it. She got married in '58, so that pattern has been around for quite some time. I shortened her dress as she was rather short and used the fabric that came off to make that bag. Funny how it all comes back! I'll have to rummage through old photographs to see if I can find a picture. Can't ask her as she died at a quite young age, over 30 years ago.
Sorry Sue, I couldn't find the pattern I thought I had, I guess some things just vanish over a 60 + year period. LOL!!!
I would look for copyright dates. The one attached has a 2006 date.
Although, the heart shape itself cannot be copyrighted as it is a basic shape. The tied bit may indeed be copyrighted.
Good luck with this!
PS I cannot go searching anymore as I found some very pretty pin cushions and I already collect too many things! LOL
Quite a different way to do it, just a half square triangle and separate ties. Still the same idea.
I agree with Carol below..... I would think you could copyright the pattern you create (like the person in the link) but not the "idea" in this case. Each person puts their own spin on it - and as long as you did not print out someone else's pattern and digitize it as is you would not be infringing. The log cabin is a great example - a ton of people have created books, pattern, ITH designs, etc. of it - and bet not a one has been sued. I bet if you created an ITH design for the heart, you may not be the only one to do that either....
You are so right, Sue...when I first saw the pincushion, my first thought was, wow, this would be an easy ITH project...although nothing says you can't do it yourself for your own personal use is there?
I wonder if this is not a headache in the making. Since getting involved with the search in response to the original enquiry, I have seen or been directed to this design (including variations of it, i.e. the keychain) on several websites. Clearly, somebody out there can claim to be the originator of the design but finding the answer to that question may be where the headache comes in.
It is an interesting issue. We see many examples of various crafting ideas on our tv's (Katie Allsop being a classic example in the UK) but never a mention of the inventor/designer or copyright ownership. How do they get away with it, whilst we sit here ringing our hands over the issue? Answers on a postcard, please, to.......................................
Hi Dennis, I think you mean Kirstie Allsop - I loved watching her on the Home shows in England. I remember her one time making a cushion and sewing it all up from scratch, she is fun to watch and listen to. I also loved her in Location, Location, Location. I hope we can get a clear answer to this question about copyright. Love Chris
I've just had my wrist slapped by an Aussie! Now I know how the England cricket team must feel. Nothing like being slapped when you are already down.
But of course, you are quite right Mrs. P. I must have been thinking of that Middleton lady.
HIi there Sue, yes your question is very interesting, I thought that once a pattern (sewing) is out there, there is no copyright, like say the log cabin square in quilting, there is no copyright on that one, I may be wrong, although I still would still not claim that pattern as mine, it would be very interesting to get an answer.