Copyright questions

[Margy]

Can one of the designers help me with a question please.

I would like to use some printed decoupage paper I bought to make 3D cards, and then sell these cards. I would also like to use the same paper and make a printout sheet with the same 'pieces', and sell these sheets.

What are the copyright issues related to the above?

[Deborah Lauder]

Hi Margy :D

You should try checking with the manufacturer of the sheet first. But normally speaking I think they are happy for you to sell hand made cards that you produce with the decoupage, but I doubt they'd allow you to copy the sheet and sell that.

As for using the image on the sheet, if it was to make a backing sheet to sell separately, again, you should check with whoever created the image, for example if it's a popcorn the bear image you would need to check with Crafter Companion, but I would doubt very much if this was allowable. If you were making your own backing sheet to form part of your finished card, make sure you let them know that, because they may well be happy for you to do that.

There is no definite answer to this one as far as I know, because all of the manufacturers have different sets of rules, and unfortunately, unless you go directly to the source of the sheets you will never know for sure, and it's always best to be safe than sorry.

I'm sorry I can't be of any more help. I hope you find a more definite answer and one that you want :)

Good luck

[Crafty Shell]

I would have thought the sheet would have a copyright mark on it.I think it is highly unlikely you would be allowed to copy the sheets.

[Elaine]

Hi Margy - As far as I know every sheet you buy belongs to the person who created it and you can't re-sell it as is.
You can make cards or other projects for sale but you mustn't reproduce the sheet and sell it.
Hope this helps :)

[Margy]

Thanks for your replies. A little more complicated than I thought, but manageable! I don't actually want to scan in the page as is and then sell that, but was hoping to make a backing sheet for 3D, so you have already answered my questions. Thanks again.