Sew What’s Up Presents
The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was
retired in August 2007. It is being provided by
“Sew What’s Up,”
which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: MaryW
Date: 06-07-2004, 07:08 PM (1 of 40)
Here is a multi part question for everyone. Please respond if you can help, thanks.  Dearest Mary,I have come at a time in my life when I want to be successful at what I do best which is sewing.I have made clothes. a lovely nightgown for my 97 year old grandmother,placemats,and a quilt. Everyone one in my family says how talented I am so I decided to put my best foot forward and make a business out of it. Luckily for me I will be living in an isolated out of the way house with five bedrooms(no kids or family to worry about). so I can easily convert one of those bedrooms or use the living space downstairs as a sewing workshop.I have three sewing machines, all the notions one can possibly have,plus i do crafts as well. I work at Walmart, so I get alot of fabric pretty cheap and a great Cut n Sew shop across the street from Walmart is available too. I know I will have to start small,what I was thinking of doing was making nurses scrubs, placemat settings, and baby quilts. I found a great easy make in a day baby quilt, a very simple nurses scrub pattern, and placemat patterns as well. My questions to you is,should I make a whole bunch of stuff to start off with and try to sell it on ebay? Can I legally solicit to Hospitals about the Scrubs?I know it takes a while to turn a profit. How do I get a name for my new company, So I can get a checking acct business cards, and a website? I saw something about contacting the FairTrading Commissioner, but I just need a push in the right direction.Thanx Mary a new friend ,Tania MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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From: paroper
Date: 06-07-2004, 08:44 PM (2 of 40)
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First of all, your best business bet is one that you can do quickly and turn a profit. Also, it is best NOT to diversify but find a speciality that you can enjoy. I think that the rule on this is a little different if you are planning to custom sew. You need to check the regulations in your area to find out about sewing for others. It may be considered a SERVICE which may effect sales tax collection according to local and state regulations. If you provide materials, you will almost certainly have to collect sales tax if you sell to the public. If you outright use a pattern that is from a pattern book, it is copywrited. If your customer brings you a pattern for their use, it is one thing, if you use that pattern to sew and sell, it is infringement. So...take a little time and make start making patterns/designs of your own.. There are major advantages to you providing the materials...as well as taking advantage of wholesale pricing and there may be sales tax advantages to you and you can be sure that the fabric that is chosen is suitable for the product. You need to find a good experienced accountant to help you name your business and declare the type of business you will be (sole proprietor, corporation, etc.) ...as part of your income tax liability all of these things vary from state to state, even municipality to municipality. You need to check into these things; check with the sales tax division in your state/county/city. There are regulations on naming your business too. You need to look at names for your business, discuss them with the tax division, and find out how the names are registered in your city/county/state. Our state offers classes for small businesses on how to set up your businesses properly, get Federal Tax IDs, collect tax, estimate revinue, etc. You will not be able to use any names that are already registered as national trade marks, etc. You will probably not be able to use a name that is recognized in your selling area either (and you wouldn't want to do that). You will need to have business insurances and the type of insurance you need will depend on if you market from your home or through another business you can check with your home owners insurance on that. If you print cards or advertise your phone number, you will need to register a phone as a business phone. You will also have to have a business account at a financial instituation. Check with your local hospitals and doctors' offices and find out what they will let you do. If they will let you post tear off strips in the professional lounges, GREAT...some may let you post cards there too. Present your flyers to the hospitals and local doctors offices with a very nice formal letter and a few business cards. Post flyers with tear off strips in laundry mats (great spot) and fabric stores (believe it or not, a lot of people shop there who don't sew). INVEST in a good professional label with your company name as it is listed in the phone book and your home town (if a nurse sees your work and likes it, a few labels will pay for themselves..it is also a good reminder for your customers) so that you can be called for more work. pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: allie-oops
Date: 06-07-2004, 10:25 PM (3 of 40)
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Here's a good place to start searching to see if the name you want is in use..... http://tess2.uspto.gov/bin/gate.exe?f=tess&state=5p0sbf.1.1 use the basic search. Also, you can use www.anywho.com to search for business names that are similar to the ones you want to use - it will let you know if there is anyone in your part of town with the name. You can get business cards at www.vistaprint.com. I believe it's 4.95 shipping, the cards themselves are free. Hand one out to everyone you know. My business is growing without any advertising at all - simply word of mouth. Contact your local Small Business Administration office. They can give you lots of advice, and help with paperwork. HTH. "onward through the fog"
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User: allie-oops
Member since: 10-25-2002 Total posts: 282 
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From: Carol in ME
Date: 06-08-2004, 07:36 AM (4 of 40)
| Be cautious about Ebay. I've gotton some great deals there. And I think, from checking the bids on scrubs, many who shop there are looking for a "deal" themselves. I can't make anything cheaper than I can buy it on Ebay, except maybe a special occasion dress for myself. |
User: Carol in ME
Member since: 01-27-2003 Total posts: 105 |
From: tania513
Date: 06-08-2004, 09:13 AM (5 of 40)
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thankyou all for your advice and wisdom. Taking the plunge is kinda scarey, but i really want to do this and I know with some effort and hard work I can achieve this. How can you avoid infinging if there is a 99% chance that the pattern already exists? I could use a quilting style that is all my own or add something or the way it is presented that makes it unique.any othre advice is helpful
Tania
be happy life is too short |
User: tania513
Member since: 06-07-2004 Total posts: 6 
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From: paroper
Date: 06-08-2004, 10:18 AM (6 of 40)
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You need to make the pattern yours. I am not an expert on what makes it unique...but if it were me, I would look at the pattern and see what can be changed to make it a total new look. You have to have something for size...that's a given, but take that pattern and snip and cut and add some things to it, take some things away so that when you are finished it is yours. Start with a basic pattern and study where it can be changed...add a yolk, some trims, change the neckline, change the sleeves, I haven't seen any raglan sleeves in the market yet...I have seen the one-piece komono and set-in sleeves...raglan sleeves are not only comfortable, they are fast to set in and they add style. That might be something you can do. My daughter likes the scrub tops that are slit at the bottom for extra fullness. The lady at the scrub store tells me that the flare leg scrubs for women have been so popular that she hasn't even been able to get any for over a year..they are just now shipping to her and she can't keep them in stock. There are flare leg, straight leg, narrow leg, and leg cuffed scrubs. You can have seam pockets, patch pockets, pockets with tabs, buttons, velcro, pockets over pockets, pockets with pen holders....you can have collars, no collars, round neck, boat necks, button necks with tabs, the list is forever. I've even recently seen scrubs and tops with matching embroidery patterns around the neck and down the legs and some with Embroidery initials. You can also offer to customize your scrubs with names and titles (for an extra fee) if you have a machine that will afford you that luxury. The scrub companies have catalog mailers that you can get from your local dealers that will help you with your designs. If you are going to market them as a shop where they will all be a little different, you may want to do something in the title of your business that indicates that they are unique or custom. Don't forget that there are men that wear scrubs too...you may want to do a few things that are masculine. I've seen such cute speciality scrub fabrics for vet and eye doctors' offices lately.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: weB2cats
Date: 07-22-2004, 10:58 AM (7 of 40)
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My vote is for the baby quilts idea. The scrubs would be too much work for any profit to be turned. And most hospitals have a source for scrubs that gives them a price break since they order in quantity. Do people use placemats for anything other than formal dining these days? Seasonal placemats (Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, etc) might work. |
User: weB2cats
Member since: 11-07-2002 Total posts: 232 |
From: paroper
Date: 07-22-2004, 12:47 PM (8 of 40)
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That may depend on where you live about the scrubs. Where my daughter works the staff supplies their own and get them where ever they want.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: momto7
Date: 09-03-2004, 01:39 AM (9 of 40)
Hi there I am new here but I too am making pillows and selling them. I have sold Harry Potter pillows and other type too. I have sold then at craft shows and flea marts. I get 15.00 a pair for my popular ones and 10.00 for other ones. I also make throws and blankets, and baby blankets.  I have not gone on ebay to sell even tho people have told me to do it. |
User: momto7
Member since: 09-02-2004 Total posts: 16 |
From: shadylady
Date: 09-03-2004, 09:26 PM (10 of 40)
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Momto7, Perhaps you already paid for permission and know this, but in case not, using copyrighted items (whether fabrics, applique's, even painting it on) and selling it, is not allowed without permission (and lots of $$$) from whomever owns it. It's for personal use only. You could get sued big time. I would not list them on Ebay (the copyright police are there) unless you have already persued this. |
User: shadylady
Member since: 09-19-2003 Total posts: 58 
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From: momto7
Date: 09-06-2004, 01:25 PM (11 of 40)
| NO I did not know this thanks for this info. I never realizes that it would be against the law to sell this copyrighted stuff. I will definitly check into that. |
User: momto7
Member since: 09-02-2004 Total posts: 16 |
From: mirbass
Date: 10-28-2004, 01:03 PM (12 of 40)
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Hi there. I have no experience or words of wisdom about starting a business in sewing. However, being a nurse I know while I was a student we had to get scrubs for our work term and most of us had no idea where to get them. We did find a board at the college that had a business card of a person that sold scrubs at her home. She did not make them herself just sold from cataloges. Anyway most of us bought our scrubs from her. She had her living room with all sorts of scrubs, with different themes ( baby) ( animals) ( teeth)(thermometeres, and bandage etc) besides the regular ones. She also had cover or warm up jackets with themes and solid colors. That way she opened herself for scrubs for animal clinic workers, nurses , dentis office workers, daycare workers, seniors care home etc. She had it so that you had to call her and make an appointment because she had another job. I am not sure if I was any help but that was my experience. Mirbass |
User: mirbass
Member since: 10-28-2004 Total posts: 8 |
From: Arlette
Date: 11-08-2004, 09:10 PM (13 of 40)
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Momto7, Perhaps you already paid for permission and know this, but in case not, using copyrighted items (whether fabrics, applique's, even painting it on) and selling it, is not allowed without permission (and lots of $$$) from whomever owns it. It's for personal use only. You could get sued big time. I would not list them on Ebay (the copyright police are there) unless you have already persued this. You mean I go to the fabric store, purchase fabric but I can not sell what I make with that fabric??? I am not taking the graphics from that fabric and remaking it into other items. I have never seen any warnings at fabric stores that I can not resell items made with fabric purchased there. You have me extremely confused on this one. I can understand copyright infringment if I were taking that fabric and using it to get the graphics and use those to create my own graphics that I use for other reasons. Where can I find the copyright law concerning this??? Thanks Arlette H
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User: Arlette
Member since: 11-07-2004 Total posts: 1 |
From: MartySews
Date: 11-14-2004, 05:49 PM (14 of 40)
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I think the copyright website is copyrightlaws.gov but am not sure. You can use your search engine and type in copyright laws and get a lot of matches. Themed fabrics sold in Fabric stores are for personal use only. If a customer wanted a particular fabric, pattern and design then I would have them purchase it and use my skills to create what they want. However, if I went to Hancock Fabrics and bought 10 bolts of a particular themed fabric, made up items and then sold them, I would be infringing upon the copyright of that design. Taking a commercial pattern, changing the design, and then selling it as your own is a copyright violation. If you have designed your own patterns, then talk with a patent attorney about protecting your work. It can be complicated. Ignorance of the law is not a valid excuse. Carefully research this. People have been prosecuted for violating copyright laws over selling small items. If you would like to make scrubs, then contact the nursing association or hospital in your area for a meeting. Offer them your business card and then sell your skills as a seamstress. Let the customer supply the pattern and fabric and you will be safe. Happy Stitching! Marty 
It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504 
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From: AllThumz
Date: 01-14-2005, 04:40 PM (15 of 40)
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Hello! Newbee, here! Ok; I am dense. Please indulge me. If I can't use an existing (store) pattern, or existing fabric (e.g.: any fabric purchased at a fabric store) to make and sell items online, at a craft show, or elsewhere. HOW DO OTHERS DO IT? I love reading this forum, but, it's knocked the wind out of my sails, since I didn't know what I couldn't do! Help! I thought I'd make items to sell, since I'm not a super sewer, and need to sharpen clothing skill; afraid to custom sew! (Even though I have sewn for self for years; hence: "AllThumz!"). Thanks! May God Bless you!
Adrienne Pray, sing, sew and drink only the most excellent coffee! |
User: AllThumz
Member since: 01-14-2005 Total posts: 22 
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From: MaryW
Date: 01-14-2005, 04:47 PM (16 of 40)
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Hi AllThumz, and welcome to Sew Whats New. I'm afraid it's true. If you want to sell clothing that you have made, you must not use the patterns you can buy. The pattern has to be your own design. Licensed fabrics such as cartoon characters, Disney, etc. are also not allowed to be made up and sold. Disney is notorious for shutting people and businesses down in a hurry. If you want to make children's or womens clothing to sell, there is a LOT to know before you begin. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: MartySews
Date: 01-14-2005, 06:05 PM (17 of 40)
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If one purchases a pattern or uses a freebie off of the internet, then the design (style) belongs to the designer who created it and the company who sells or shares the pattern. Most patterns have in small print "for personal use only". To use that pattern and sell clothing that you created as your own line of clothing is copyright infringement. If fabric has a patented design (like Disney character's, Warner Bros, St Jude, Hello Kitty, etc) one must get written permission from the patent holder to use that fabric to sell in clothing. This is called a licensee agreement. These laws are in place to protect the designers and the companies that have purchased these rights. To violate these laws is the same as stealing someone else's design and passing it off as one's own. This is fraud and is punishable by law. Recently, in my community, there was a raid on a flea market that was selling "knock-off's" of clothing, handbags, craft items, etc. The people who were caught in this sting all now have a criminal record and face jail time plus fines. A lot of people don't realize that businesses take these things seriously. Unfortunately, there are some people who do not investigate these laws and are shocked when caught (like the elderly couple in the sting). Then there are some who are never caught. Whether it's using a pattern, changing a pattern, using pieces of different patterns for a unique look, that is still stealing someone's design no matter how it is disguised. The risks are just not worth it in the long run. If one wants to develop a line of clothing to sell, then one needs to learn to draft patterns and purchase fabric from manufacturers. For designers who have had years of education and skill to develop their patterns, is it fair for dressmakers (sew-ers, seamstresses, etc) to use their designs for profit without their permission? I think not. Happy Stitching! Marty 
It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504
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From: paroper
Date: 01-14-2005, 07:04 PM (18 of 40)
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As far as I know SOME fabrics in stores can be sold with no problems. Others, are trademarked fabrics or copywrite protected. I suspect that if you look at some of the Professional sports prints for instance, you'll probably find a copywrite or trademark symbol either in the print or in the selvages. Even our local universities are starting to act against people who wrongfully use their trademarks. You should also know that anything that is a well-know character, Warner Brother, Disney, whatever, be it Spider Man, Strawberry Shortcake, Disney Characters, Bugs Bunny, Ninja Turtles, whatever else that is a recognized character or symbol is more than likely to be protected no matter how it is used (as fabric or embroidery). The problem is that I don't know that you can always know which prints are protected. I would have no idea what the protection would be on prints that are made to benefit St. Jude, the American Cancer Society or other benefit prints but I strongly suspect that these should not be used either. Most of my embroidery patterns are sold through OESD. They have patterns that can be used as public domain (and sold) and those that cannot. They are pretty specific about what can and cannot be used and that it is dangerous to use products incorrectly. As far as I know, MOST patterns fall into the protected category. However, if you can always contact the pattern company to be sure that is correct. If you find a trademark symbol or copywrite symbol on the pattern someplace (probably on the envelope or instruction sheets), you will automatically know that pattern is protected. You can be sure that ALL the designer patterns which they carry will most definately be protected from resale as ready-made items and even the patterns themselves should not be sold. As previously stated, if you make the products and your customer provides the materials and patterns you will NOT be reselling anything, only providing a service. This would not be a violation of the law as you would not be selling the pattern or the fabric, only changing the fabric and pattern they supplied. Making garments for many people from a single pattern is also a violation. pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: AllThumz
Date: 01-15-2005, 07:10 AM (19 of 40)
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Thank you, Mary for the welcome, advise, and to everyone else for their advise. I am learning much from reading the posts here. Thank you for this forum! Q: Can I make multiple outfits/items from the same pattern belonging to the same customer, or must the pattern be discarded after one use, no matter what? (I now realize every person must have their own pattern, even if a brdual party with the same design/size.) Q: Can I refuse to sew something for a customer for any reason? Some people (in my past alterations experience) give me a bad feeling. I thought you couldn't refuse anyone; that's another fear (among others) I have about sewing for strangers. Thank you. May God Bless you!
Adrienne Pray, sing, sew and drink only the most excellent coffee! |
User: AllThumz
Member since: 01-14-2005 Total posts: 22
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From: MaryW
Date: 01-15-2005, 07:59 AM (20 of 40)
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If your customer has supplied the pattern, you can make that specific customer multiple outfits, no problem. Yes, you can and should turn down customers who make you feel uneasy. You can quote them a high price, tell them you are short on time or whatever you feel is necessary to refuse the work. Don't ever work for someone you don't trust or feel otherwise uncomfortable with. If you have worked with the public before, you develop a sense about this. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: MartySews
Date: 01-15-2005, 08:28 AM (21 of 40)
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When one sews for the public, then one becomes like a business owner and can pick and choose their customer base. That's what is one of the most wonderful things about custom sewing, the ability to pick and choose the job that will give you pleasure to complete. One doesn't even need to give a reason beyond "I'm not available". No further explanation is needed. Always use a contract (even for minor jobs). It is a way to protect oneself. In today's world people are quick to sue someone over the most trivial things. That why television shows like "People's Court", "Judge Joe Brown", "Judge Judy", etc survive in my opinion for whatever it is worth. Learn to use the word "NO". If a customer makes you uneasy, then there are no unwritten or written rules that say you have to take the job. Sewing should be something that gives you pleasure and confidence when the job is complete. Also when sewing for the public out of one's home, be sure to check the local ordinances and guidelines for home based businesses. Obtain the necessary licenses and pay the appropriate taxes. These are business expenses that can be deducted off one's income tax. Check with your State Dept of Revenue for tax guidelines. You may want to check your local library for a book on sewing for the public. Some of the titles that I'm familiar with are "Sew to Success"; "The Business of Sewing"; "Marketing Your Sewing Business"; "Do You Sew for Profit?". All of these are excellent resources than can help you set up your home based sewing business. On sewing for a customer that likes a particular pattern, then one can sew as many variations of that pattern that the customer wants. When sewing for multiple customers, then each customer should have their own pattern. One can purchase fabric from a local retailer to make a dress for a customer. What I used to do is have the customer meet me at the fabric store to pick out the pattern and fabric. That way, I could suggest appropriate fabric, styles that would flatter the customer, and make sure the necessary notions were purchased. I would charge a consultation fee and then charge by the pattern piece to construct the outfit. Most outfits would run $100 & up. Prior to shopping, I would meet the customer in their own home to take their personal measurements. Using my laptop, I could suggest various patterns that they may be interested in purchasing. If I felt uncomfortable in any way, I could always leave. For me, it was much better than having them in my home. My family's privacy was protected and I could conduct my business without interruptions. This is just some food for thought. Happy Stitching! Marty
It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504
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From: paroper
Date: 01-15-2005, 08:59 AM (22 of 40)
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As you go you will know that you just can't take every customer that comes to you. Some customers will try to "book" your time but put off bringing their materials. This is a BIG problem. You need to be very specific about when they need to have ALL their materials for you or loose their "slot". You may also want to take a deposit fee to commit them for the job. If you don't do this you may find yourself committed to someone to do work and not have any work to do, (costing you money and valuable time) or they will bring their material at the last minute and expect the job.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: AllThumz
Date: 01-15-2005, 10:37 AM (23 of 40)
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Thank you, all! Much to consider; I like the idea of not having people enter the privacy of my home, as well. There were times in the past some people just, "gave me the creeps." I like the option of not having to accept work if I do not want to. I will check with my accountant; he has handled business accounts in my area for years and could get me the info. on ordinances, taxes, etc., I am sure. I was most concerned with having the right to refuse. Thank you! 
May God Bless you!
Adrienne Pray, sing, sew and drink only the most excellent coffee! |
User: AllThumz
Member since: 01-14-2005 Total posts: 22
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From: MartySews
Date: 01-15-2005, 01:25 PM (24 of 40)
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Glad to be able to help. Don't hesitate to ask questions as they come up. Someone on this site will be able to offer suggestions or share experiences that can answer your questions. Happy Stitching! Marty 
It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504
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From: paroper
Date: 01-15-2005, 02:23 PM (25 of 40)
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Our state offers free classes on how to set up a small business, what type of business to declare, how to register your business, how to determine what the name for your business should be, and which types of businesses charge sales taxes. You have to look into state, county and city zoning regulations, etc. You also need to be aware that at least in this state if you have a number printed even on a business card as a business number the phone company can demand that you have a business phone listing (at a much higher rate). You need to carry business insurance. If a customer should come to your house and fall from your porch, your home owners will probably not cover it. It is always best to meet away from your home if possible but consider that the physical dangers of entering someone else's home might be as great as they entering yours. Also, you when you go to someone else's home, you can never be sure who will be there or what kind of situation you may be entering. If, however you have them come to you, it is best that if possible, they not have full access to your home. They do not necessarily have to access to your sewing room (and or computer area), so you may be able to set up a meeting area in or near a foyer or other entrance point to your home. If you are not familiar with the customer, it is a good idea to choose times when other family members will be home. If you can isolate their entrance and accessibility it is better for you and your family. If you go to their home, always keep a calendar of addresses, appointment times, and phone numbers where you go in a set place at your home just for your personal safety. pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: Mom of Six
Date: 01-15-2005, 08:44 PM (26 of 40)
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What if you just want to do small craft shows. Is there a copyright problem if you see something on TV & you make it your own (no pattern involved) or a hand me down piece that you love & think other people would to so you make up your own similar pattern? My Grandmother had an apron that fit over the dish soap so that when you left it out it would look nicer. I thought these might sell at a craft show. Grandma has been gone now for 16 years so I can't ask her where she got it. It is definitly homeade. She was always making something unique or in her senior group someone else would share ideas. Do you think I would be safe with this one? What about rice packs? Hair towels? I don't use a pattern. I just cut them to what looks right & serge. I also make kitchen towels the same way & see those at craft sales all of the time. I don't want to break any laws but almost anything you see at craft shows comes from an adaption of someone elses idea. & around here I see lisenced fabric used all of the time. ( I know this is wrong & don't plan on using any). Can someone clear this up for me/ or do I just forget it & keep making them for free.
Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115 
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From: allie-oops
Date: 01-16-2005, 02:25 AM (27 of 40)
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MomofSix, I think you'd be ok using your Grandma's patterns. I copy things all the time for my personal use, if it looks like the original I would NEVER sell it....but if it's your Grandma's pattern you should be fine. One thing I love to do is use vintage patterns, because they're out of copyright. And if you're into making clothing, there are a lot of pattern drafting softwares out there that you do on the computer. You can create lots of original patterns and not have to worry about copyrights. There's also a lot of ideas floating around on the internet that don't have copyrights. But you need to check the website thoroughly to make sure. I myself will be making baby quilts, embroidered and not, and since quilt designs are really old, they have no copyrights attached....but the new ones do. The traditional patterns don't. Things like burp cloths, diaper covers, etc are easy to do without a pattern too. If you do make up a pattern, make a paper copy of it so you have it in case anyone asks, and for your own records. Craft fairs are notorious places for copycats. If you think up something original and sell it there, you'll see 20 booths next summer with them. "onward through the fog"
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User: allie-oops
Member since: 10-25-2002 Total posts: 282
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From: Mom of Six
Date: 01-16-2005, 07:47 AM (28 of 40)
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Thanks! I don't want to go into business but I thought it would be a better way to use up my stash instead of just selling it like I did last year. (now I wish I had some of that back it would make great rice packs& bowling diapers. But my DMIL has most of it & I would never ask her for it back.
Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115
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From: paroper
Date: 01-16-2005, 10:41 AM (29 of 40)
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Oh, Rats! You may just have to go shopping if your ideas turn out well. GOOD LUCK on your projects! Let us know how well you do! pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: Serenity
Date: 01-16-2005, 04:48 PM (30 of 40)
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I definelt say...LEARN TO DRAFT YOUR OWN!. It will be the best thing you could ever do for yourself in 2005. There are many books on it and even a few sites on Yahoo Groups that teach it on-line for FREE. Once you know the formula you will find it so easy to do and thiink nothing about it. I draft all my own patterns and have tons of vintage patterns that I look at to give me new ideas. Happy Sewing Serenity "The struggle is not greater than the goal". Be blessed. Stay encouraged.
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User: Serenity
Member since: 01-12-2005 Total posts: 85
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From: Bandana
Date: 01-20-2005, 12:58 PM (31 of 40)
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Hello, I am new here and like everyone else am trying to start a very small specific sewing business sewing pet bandana's. I have made them for my pet's for sometime and have had many requests for them. I just want to see if I understand something as I do not want to get myself into any trouble. 1. They are my own design....can't get to fancy with a dog bandana. So I know I am okay there. 2. If the fabric doesn't say anything on the salvage edge is it okay to use and re-sell? It has been mentioned to stay away from Disney, sports teams etc. If I create my own design to specify the team (i.e. I love the Red Sox) is this a copyright infringement since I am using the team name? Where do people find this out? Do you contact the Red Sox organization? If anyone has any thoughts it would be greatly appreciated. |
User: Bandana
Member since: 01-20-2005 Total posts: 2 |
From: MaryW
Date: 01-20-2005, 01:28 PM (32 of 40)
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I am guessing here but I think if you create your own design, you are fine with selling the bandana. But, I don't think you can take a sports logo that you have purchased and put that on fabric for retail sale. Embroidery people, you probably know more about this than I. Anyone know the facts? Bandana, welcome to Sew Whats New. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: paroper
Date: 01-20-2005, 02:05 PM (33 of 40)
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Technically if it is a trademarked name, logo or whatever, I think you have to have permission to use it. Just to be on the safe side, you can always write the organization (that's what we were told to do in Girl Scouts). Would you be caught if you did it without permission? I don't know but do you REALLY want to risk it? Some of the people that I have known to get in trouble have been in places doing things that I wouldn't have thought many people would have even seen or noticed but they ended up in court and in very hot water. One of them wasn't selling the logos, they just painted some Disney pictures on the outside of their day care. I have heard that some of the colleges are really making big money by cracking down on the use/sale of their logos illeagally. If the colleges are doing it, you know that the big leagues are doing it too....esp. if there is money to be made. I've heard of large fines, the confiscation of computers, sewing machines, sergers and anything else pertaining to sewing along with jail time for this type of crime. That's pretty stiff especially if you can prevent it with a thirty seven cent stamp. pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: Bandana
Date: 01-20-2005, 04:22 PM (34 of 40)
| I am going to stick to simple (un-logo/copyrighted) materials....until I can figure this out. Thanks. |
User: Bandana
Member since: 01-20-2005 Total posts: 2 |
From: AllThumz
Date: 02-02-2005, 08:49 AM (35 of 40)
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I have decided to define my interest in starting a sewing business by creating household & kitchen items, and other things that do not require fittings, etc. I am not very good at "fitting" people and really do not wish to deal with people in my home. Ayway; if I design a pattern, how: 1- do i secure a copyright 2- do i know I have not created somethin coicidentally copyrighted already? 3- where do I purchase fabrics to make them, if fabric designs (I don't mean liscensing as Disney, etc.) are also protected? I bought some really "cheapy" fabric from Joann, and did not notice until I got home there was writing on the selvage that said it was designed exclusively for Joann Fabrics. I am just looking for coordinates such as flowers, solids, etc. I want to sell these things at shows and perhaps over the net on my own site. Any help would be appreciated! Adrienne May God Bless you!
Adrienne Pray, sing, sew and drink only the most excellent coffee! |
User: AllThumz
Member since: 01-14-2005 Total posts: 22
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From: MartySews
Date: 02-02-2005, 08:54 AM (36 of 40)
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If you create your own designs, then definitely contact a patent attorney to obtain the appropriate copyright license and patent for your work. Generic fabrics can be used for them. Just some thoughts on the subject. Marty
It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504
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From: AllThumz
Date: 02-02-2005, 06:16 PM (37 of 40)
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Thanks, Marty! I will investigate a patent lawyer... Adrienne May God Bless you!
Adrienne Pray, sing, sew and drink only the most excellent coffee! |
User: AllThumz
Member since: 01-14-2005 Total posts: 22
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From: Kerm98
Date: 03-24-2005, 09:41 AM (38 of 40)
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HI Everyone , I know Disney, Sports, Logos, Etc. are a no no. but if I bought fabric from Joann's Fabric that has printed on the selvage" Made Exclusively for Joann's " does that mean I can't use this fabric either? Karen |
User: Kerm98
Member since: 02-16-2001 Total posts: 7 |
From: paroper
Date: 03-24-2005, 10:58 AM (39 of 40)
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My gut instinct is to say that only tells you not to expect to find it at another fabric shop like Hancocks. You can always e-mail the company to ask. Is there a copywrite logo in the selvage too? I downloaded a beautiful purchased embroidery design yesterday; as I downloaded it brought up the terms of the download. It said that it was copywrited and I could not transfer or resell the design but it specifically said that it could be applied to items for sale. I guess that it may depend on how the item is copywrited. pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: MaryW
Date: 03-24-2005, 12:04 PM (40 of 40)
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I agree with Pam. It was made for Joann's, you won't find it at any other fabric stores.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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