First off, I am really, really excited to announce that one of my video tutorials, Waxes 101, has been transcribed for the hearing impaired by a wonderful lady named Laurie. She saw that I wanted to offer that and volunteered to transcribe my video tutorials. She does it professionally and it was so amazing for her to offer her talents to serve others. We’re hoping to get the slipcover tutorials transcribed as well. If you’d like to check it out, follow the link to the post. There is a button directly under the video that links to the transcribed document.
Now, to the heart of it.
I get a lot of e-mail with questions…mostly about paint and furniture and stains and waxes and running a creative business. I do get a few asking me about a sensitive issue…What do you do when someone copies you outright. Should you be flattered? Should you be offended? Should you confront the person?
Well…it depends.
First of all, a copycat is always flattering, even when you feel ripped off. Someone likes what you do and wants to do it, too. People usually don’t copy someone they think stinks. So, take it as a compliment.
There are times when copying is okay…even encouraged. We are in the world of DIY blogs, after all. We’re trying to teach our readers how to make something, paint something, sew something, build something and we shouldn’t be surprised when they do it and show it off. Donna and I had a blast with the Copy Me Challenge we ran in January. It was fun to see our styles through the eyes of others.
We also have to remember that there are some people who are very creative and others who aren’t. Some can’t make things up as they go along. They have to follow a picture, tutorial or the design of someone else…and that’s totally okay. I love it when I get pictures or links from my readers sharing a piece they made that was inspired by my blog. Not only did they love what I made, but they loved it enough to bring it into their own home or sell it in their antique booth. It’s one of the best compliments someone can pay.
I think things get sticky when the “copier” is making a profit off the “copy” and/or not giving the true creator any credit for the idea. What’s even worse is when the “copier” is in direct competition with the creator. I think that’s the line where imitation becomes irritation. Here are some things to think through when this happens…
Is it maybe a coincidence? It really is possible that you both had the same brilliant idea around the same time. I was so excited about my sheet music line of Christmas ornaments, only to find that Pottery Barn was doing the same thing! Those thieving, copying, no-good, lousy, rotten… No. Not at all. Pottery Barn creates their lines well in advance and we were both just following trends and taking them in the same direction.
Is it really going to hurt your business? If you’ve created a name for yourself in your field, chances are it won’t hurt your business if there are a couple of Etsy sellers out there making the same thing you are. Your customers are going to want your work and will probably recognize the knock-off.
Use this as an opportunity to spur on your own creativity. Move on and develop new ideas and projects and pieces. Stay one step ahead. I know this is hard when you create one thing over and over and that’s your forte, but you can always change things up a little…even just how you stage and photograph your work.
If you’re going to confront the person, make sure you keep yourself above reproach. There’s a way to approach the issue without being a total jerk about it. Write the e-mail or contact the individual when you’re calm and after you’ve slept on it. Get the opinions of others and see if they think the copying is as blatant as you do. Also, decide what the goal in contacting the offender is…do you want them to stop? Can you even control that? Do you just want to let off some steam? Know what you want before you initiate something.
Now, there are times when copying violates the law and I’m not even going to get into that. I’m not an expert on copyright and trademarks and all of that. I’m just mentioning it to say that there are times when going after someone who’s copying you is within your legal rights and the best thing to do.
Here are some good rules to keep in mind when you’re the one doing the copying…
If you’re keeping the piece for yourself, I think most designers/artists will be okay with it. If it’s just for you in your home, go for it.
If you want to sell the work you’re copying, first of all, it may be illegal. At the very least it may really offend the person you admire and it may take your business down a notch if you’re classified as a copycat. Why not change it up to make it your own? You’re in love with a pillow you saw on Etsy. Instead of making one exactly the same and selling it on Etsy, make one in a different fabric, color, shape, style, etc. If you find you are totally lacking in the creativity department, there are plenty of books and blogs that give permission for the work to be copied exactly and sold. If there’s a doubt, send the creator an e-mail and ask for permission. It could save you a lot of grief.
Lastly, always give credit. Be gracious to the people who inspire you and link to their blog, book or shop.
Does anyone have any other words of wisdom for dealing with this issue?
79 Responses
Marian ~
I totally agree with what you have said in this post ~ And I love how you explained it so eloquently!
xoxo
Lori
Can't believe I'm the first one to comment on this (maybe some one else else typing as I am and thinking the same thing!)
I deal with this exact issue a lot in my profession, as well as within my hobby (knitting). IANAL, but I do have one of the best attorneys on the issue in the US. So you should know US laws differ from other countries. If your copycat is in another country, you have a bigger issue. If he's in the US, well, ther's a lot more factors that go into the actual *laws* of the issue, and they really require the input of an attorney. But one piece of advice is, don't offer to sue unless you're prepared to follow through, and lose. One thing I do know is that if whatever it is isn't registered with the copyright office, you can only sue for loss (if you can prove it), but not damages. Damages only come if you've actually registered your copyright. And then you get into the whole "design" thing, which is nearly un-copyrightable… It's just too big a subject to broach and the laws are always changing.
That being said – again, in my profession – this happens often. One thing I carry through with me when it happens to me is this: if it's outright theft of my work, yes, I will go after them. However, if it's something similar – even similar enough to be recognized as my work- I let it go. Why? Number one, I have enough to stress over without adding some unknown asshole to my queue. (can I say that? LOL) And number two, anyone that would matter will also discover – if not immediately, then later on – that whoever they are dealing with is indeed, an ass. In the end, it's not worth my time, Either they'll get better on their own and become true competition (which I find fun) or they will fade away into the "next big thing" to annoy someone else. nothing worth getting my panties in a wad over 😉
I think it is a pretty sticky issue. As Ecclesiastes says, "There is nothing new under the sun." Unless you have a copyright on something, it will be pretty impossible to enforce anything. There are a gazillion ideas floating around the Internet. Don't you think that we have all adapted many ideas from people to make something our own? I know that I sure have! I really think that in the end, it comes down to the marketing and presentation of your ideas that will give you the edge. I think it is better to concentrate on this rather than try to settle scores with copycats. People will always come back to the "real deal, Miss Mustard Seed." Just my humble opinion here! After all, I believe we are all copycats!
I'd add one more caveat: If I see something on someone's blog (and they're clear across the country, selling ONLY in their antique booth), I think it's OK to sell something similar in mine. As long as we're not competing online (say, etsy), or in the same region, I don't think they're in direct competition.
Similarly, when I redid my booth and decorated the walls a certain way, a blogger in Kansas City said she loved it and wanted to know if it was OK to do it in her booth. Fine by me! Go for it! Thanks for chiming in, Marion. People really respect you, so it should clarify things.
Very well said~ I dont usually create stuff so Ive never had to deal with those situations..thankfully!:) Have a happy 4th!! Rachel
French Farmhouse 425
Thanks for speaking about a tough subject. You never shy away from trying to inform and educate. My thanks for your thoughts.
Marian, thank you for taking on this subject and addressing it with so much wisdom and grace, as well as business sense. I'm sure your beautiful work earns a LOT of imitation–and I'm sure most of it is meant to be flattering to you. But I'm also certain that there are people who are delighted to take your ideas and pass them off as their own if they have a chance. Just one of the sadnesses in our world. I love the way you advise people who may be in the position of being copied without permission to approach the whole situation by keeping themselves above reproach. Paul's words to Timothy are worth heeding for all of us!
Hope you're having a wonderful summer. I see so many references to you and your work these days–they always make me proud to have met you personally. You are so deserving of your success.
I always feel flattered. The chances of the copier selling in the same venue, to the same customer base is slim to none. I encourage people to run with my ideas and hope they will.
Carol
I don't blog and I don't sell anything I do, but quite literally I have come up with an idea and either executed it, or put it in my brain to do later, only to see someone in blogland post exactly the same project I did. And it's not that I saw it somewhere else and subliminally thought it was my own idea. So I can see how throughout the vast number of bloggers and etsy sellers, that people would come up with the same ideas around the same time. There is, after all, just so many things that can be created without being rehashed.
all well put.
thank you
blessings
barbara jean
I am currently busy painting to copy your kitchen, and will redo my guest bathroom as soon as you post the results of your bathroom redo.
Copying is a total compliment, but when I post on my blog the results I will always mention you, or whoever, and do a link.
I have seen many a seller get bogged down in this and never recover and it ultimately ruins their business and creativity. There is nothing new under the sun and it's best just to do your thing and realize if you post a picture and it's cute someone will copy it and some will give credit and others won't. You will always get copied because you have that "touch" that we all wish we had. Love you blog!
lisa
I think we must be very careful about what we say about others "copying" us, IMHO. As a teacher, my colleagues and I often joke that none of has an original idea! We borrow, enhance, adapt, outright copy etc. But did that other person have the original thought? It is doubtful! We do want to take the credit, but I have to agree with the above person "that there is nothing new under the sun." Even with today's craze of painting furniture, this has been done in Scandinavia for hundreds of years.
And I guess if you live long enough, everything old is new again!
I think people should be flattered. On Etsy for example, I am friendly with a woman who sells very similar items that I do. You really can't help it if you both have the same rubber stamps, Cricut cartridge or digital downloads, etc. We each put our own spin/translation on our items. I think it's all about the translation at the end of the day.
Jeanine
Love this post! I've seen this has been a hot topic lately. The closest to this I've had happen is when I found someone was purchasing my booth items to resell on Etsy. I took it as a good sign that someone liked my taste AND it made me realize perhaps I didn't have my items priced correctly!
I have had some ideas that I thought were very original when I did them and then lo and behold….I see the exact same thing on someone else's blog. I could never accuse someone of copying me because, really, how can I prove that that person didn't have the same exact idea? Although I will comment that I did the same thing recently (along with a flattering comment about their project). If they are a real copycat, I hope that they will then realize that people do notice. If its not a copy then it becomes a "great minds think alike" laugh. But, really, I cannot control what others do and I don't spend time worrying about it.
"Immitation is the sincerest form of flattery" I agree that it's a true compliment unless it's competion. I have copied several ideas from all the amazing bloggers and their unlimited creativity,(my grain sack chairs were inspired from no other than you the Divine Miss M herself) however I do believe that credit should always be given to the person copied. That I feel is a very gracious "Thank you".
Nice post Miss M
Well said–
I'm an admitted copier. In fact I've copied you and was featured for doing so. I was so excited to make something for my grand-daughter to be cherished for her room. I was even more delighted to paint something so creative with my own touch- and my own hands. I'm grateful to those who are willing to share their work– When I was younger, the creative juices flowed more freely; Now…not so much. It's nice to have an example. I don't remake anything for profit. If I were to profit from something, I wouldn't feel right unless it was my own creation.
Thanks Marian for clearing the air!
Pat
I think it is pretty sensitive. I've known a few bloggers/artists who have been outright ripped off by larger a-hem "companies". I've also seen projects duplicated in magazines that have been out in blog land for a year or two. A magazine person told me that they knew first hand of several companies that stalk blogland and etsy all day long for ideas. So were you following a trend??? I think copying is fine for personal use, but to resell… also taking inspiration from someone else is fine too. Kelly Rae Roberts has a great view on it.
Ugh…that’s so sad that large companies steal from small individuals just trying to make a living being creatives. SIGH….
imitation is NOT the sincerest form of flattery. it is intellectual theft.
and no matter what, if an idea is good, it is going to happen.
i have endured this with one particular etsian. we had very different styles until a customer we had in common asked her to make a custom piece. her copying other artists(and me) has gone on for years already. i am not the only one being imitated. i contacted the copyist and was met with pathetic excuses and unbelievable defensiveness. ultimately, i did not respond to her. she was incapable of doing much other than copying my work. my feeling was that if she was so hobbled by the concept of originality, i should just keep trying to move forward making fresh designs.
i can sleep at night which is important to me, so i work hard at making fresh designs. i try my best to not buy into the myriad of negative feelings that can constrict my own creativity if i dwell on them. i encourage everyone including myself to move forward and feel good about personal work. no one else has the vision and actual ability to do what my hands do. i also do not have the ability to do what others do. my heart, mind and soul reject direct copying.
the irony of my copyist, is that she is technically elegant and creates lovely things. it is a shame she did not have the confidence to work on her own craft to rise to her own place. it feels like she has cheated herself out of some personal rewards.
anyways, marian, you have spoken so clearly about this issue and its many fragments. when someone has such talents as you do, others will take the info you generously offer and apply it to their own needs. credit should always be offered. otherwise it is mean and diminishes the kindness of the lessons. ultimately having integrity is the thing that accompanies signature work best. lest anyone be fooled, cream always rises to the top. you lady, are the cream… and i am grateful for your standards.
genuinely, i thank you.
wendy
Hmmmm…this is super interesting!
A couple of years ago I saw a 2-tone Ikea Rast makeover on "Design Sponge". It was done by a guy named Eric, and it was the first time I had ever seen that project.
A full month later a very popular blogger did her own version. Now she is constanly credited with the idea. Funny, cause I am sure like the rest of us, she reads Design Sponge. Hence, as a fellow creative I would never read her blog for this reason.
Here is the thing, I could never take credit for an idea that was not my own. I would feel horrible about it. But, as stated here-how many ideas are orginal anymore? Painted furniture and Union Jacks…not so much. It is how you put things together that is orginal, and that can NEVER be copied.
Great Post! I see nothing wrong with Copying "IF" its for my Own Personal use..private use for my eyes only. I would never sell it, and I would if asked tell EVERYONE where I got the idea, picture from etc. But copying to sell is BAD. PPL need to incorporate an idea into their OWN style to sell. Otherwise like I said for personal use in my home I would think its ok..and would tell everyone.."Oh I got the credit here…"
This is such a great post, the issue can be a HUGE one, especially for a big blogger like yourself who makes a living off of your "brand" if you will. Personally, I love copying others ideas, sometimes I make the same thing, sometimes I change it to fit what I want. But I have these things for ME and I would never sell something that wasn't my own. There is a line that shouldn't be crossed! I love that you put a positive spin on this though!
You bless me!
It is a fine line. As many others have already said, when you out right copy and call it your own, than it is theft. However, if you create a piece that is similar or "inspired by" then it is not the same.
There are a few blogs that I regularly follow and I have done two pieces that have been "inspired by". The union jack piece was one of them. I took the idea and made it my style- it wasn't a direct copy. But using this as an example- if we google this- there are loads of furniture with the Union Jack on it- how can we decide who is copying who. And not to mention how this is something that has just returned to style- it was quite popular many years ago and we are now seeing it come to life again. (it was more modern in styling)
The fact is Marian paints beautiful furniture and inspires a lot of people. Stealing an idea to make money from it is not ok. But, I believe she shows her work to inspire others, to make money and for the pure love of it.
We live in a very small world thanks to the internet- and unfortunately this is one of the drawbacks.
When I studied interior design in school one of the teachers taught us that there are no new ideas. Everything comes from an inspiration.
Marian is a great inspiration.
I love the fact that by blogging we are all sharing ideas and tutorials and I'm the first to admit how much I have learnt from, and been inspired by, others. If ever I make something for my home which was someone else's idea I credit back to them and usually contact them to let them know too.
With regard to the things I make to sell on Etsy I tend to have an idea, think on it for a while then make drawing etc. I also do a little search on Etsy to make sure no-one else is selling anything too similar and then go ahead and make it. I have come across items on Etsy which are very similar to mine which has got my back up a little however we all have our own unique style so they never quite look the same. One example of this is that I used to own an interiors shop and used to sell wooden wall letters which I had cut for me and then I used to paint and distress them myself. A friend who had a shop about 15 miles away asked if she could buy some off me to sell in her shop so we got together one night and I showed her how to paint them. We used the same sandpaper, paint and wax and at the end had two completely different looking set of letters. We each had our own unique style and goes to show that copycats can probably rarely make exact copies.
However, two weeks ago on Etsy I came across a new seller who had made exact copies of a few of my pillows right down to the fact that she had obviously printed off my designs and made exact stencils from these and used the same colour paint etc. This really did annoy me as I spend ages coming up with ideas and these are really popular pillows and good sellers for me. I e-mailed her and asked her if she would remove them from her shop as whether it was intentional or not they were exactly the same as mine and she did remove them although she didn't respond or apologise. I don't think it's nice to copy someones exact idea for profit. There is so much inspiration out there it's hard to come up with something original and there's nothing wrong with making your version of something which is clearly in vogue right now but I think to blatantly copy for profit is just plain wrong.
There are loads of Etsy sellers who make burlap pillow and I suppose are my competition but I respect those sellers and love their work which is very different to mine. I wouldn't dream of pinching their ideas as I would hate to be badly thought of plus I am very aware of the amount of work that goes into designing something.
Having said that I've come across a few blogs where I've seen copies of my pillows made (particularly my whale pillow) and I've been delighted that someone liked my design so much that they copied it. If they were to then sell it that would be a different story!!
Thanks for this thought provoking post!
~Sam
Very good points by both you Marion and others. I agree with Shelly that as a person, who to just get started may do anothers project, once skills are honed and confidence grows the creative juices will flow and they will begin to do work that is truly 'their own'.
As for unethical hunting for and coping designs for profit..what can you do. I just try to keep my own work fresh, with good workmanship and never waste energy worrying about it.
To live a creative life, to make it pay the bills is not easy but it is a life of passion and love of the work or process. These are the people who will still be standing and creating after the 'copy cats' fall by the roadside.
Great post! I think copying (in general) is a huge form of flattery except when it gets icky like you mentioned. I also think that many times two different people truly do come up with similar ideas. I think what you do is an art and it would be nearly impossible to copy it … I do, however, appreciate all of the great things you've taught me through this site!
You are very gracious.
Wow, did you open a can of worms or what? I totally agree with you and think you have a GREAT attitude! One that I might just try COPYING!!! 🙂
Like you, I think it depends. We write blogs to inspire others and help them do what we do. It's a big, blog world of encouraging and inspiring each other.
Now the shop is a whole 'nother issue. I have had other sellers even copy and use my titles, tags and even listing info. I've even run across them using my photos before. I rarely ever say anything about other shop owners that use the same ideas, only when they blatantly steal my verbage or copyrighted photos. But there's plenty of room for more than one bird pillow. I constantly push myself to make items progressively different, so not only does my shop stay fresh but my I also stay ahead of those copying me.
At the end of the day, I don't let it get me down, I just keep on keepin' on 🙂
My goodness, this IS a provocative topic! I often think of the entrepreneur, Rachel Ashwell. Now, she started painting furniture white and distressing it and suddenly it was the new "shabby chic!" But hey, my aunt was doing that years ago, but of course, she never marketed it or had a business going. It was for her own home. Was Ashwell original? No, she was brilliant at marketing her brand and product. I feel the same about many bloggers. They now have a certain look or brand and think they "own" it, but do they really? What do we really see out there that we haven't seen done in the past?
On another note (and I may risk wrath here), there is a LOT of competition among bloggers today, especially the "big guns." Who has a larger following, who got that spread in a magazine, who gets the most hits etc? The Internet is wonderful for information; it has provided a venue for many who wish to launch his/her own business. But it has also created a competitive, often unkind environment. We all need to examine our hearts and our motives and ask ourselves if what we are doing is fair and kind. Are we motivated by selfishness? Are we reasonable? Do we have a sense of entitlement about our "brand," ,which in reality, is really not our own as much as we think? I do believe that, in the end, our products, combined with our personal integrity, will win the day.
Loved the post and loved the comments. The bottom line to me is that you absolutely, positively need to give credit where credit is due. No exceptions ever. I have copied a few things from other bloggers for my own home…and when I blogged about them I credited the original designer with a link. I have to say that if someone copied something I had done I would be totally thrilled. That is the reason we blog in the first place. Inspiration. Thanks for sharing and as always an excellent post.
Beautifully written!
Well written and very interesting responses.
I teach crafty classes and I know from experience, very few of my attendees will take the class and make it their own. That being said, it is never an exact copy even though everyone is using identical materials and instructions.
In 'China' and the 'blog world',
You can always spot the knock offs.
(some knocks are nicer than the original too)
I think most people just want a single one of whatever you are making. Those that make a profit selling something you designed, well you just have to take it on the chin.
Many huge company's make things some lovely crafter at home made carefully and lovingly.
They have the resources to make it in massive quantity and market it.
An example are the jean purses you have seen everywhere. When I was a girl….oh soooo long ago we did that with all our old jeans…I don't feel ripped off, just a sense of OH, I did that once. We also made patchwork shoulder bags, before you needed one to shop with.
I still say 'My Mother' had the first swiffers….we used a damp rag on the end of a broom….darn coulda been rich off that one???
I say If you don't want to be copied…don't publish it.
If you see something that looks like you made it first, BE PROUD, because You know the truth of it…maybe????….
Didn't you commission an artist to copy another artist's cow painting? That would be a blatant copy.
Distressed furniture, drop cloths, Union Jacks, and grain sacks have been around forever. I don't think anyone can claim intellectual property on those.
I am curious, do you feel you are being copied? Where did this post come from?
Great topic and I enjoyed reading it, it gives me something to chew on today. It made me consider if I have ever stepped on someone's toes in this department. Not intentionally of course. But you are correct about several points in your post, specifically being flattered. Several people have commented on how they've seen my designs somewhere, only to find out it wasn't mine. Copy cats? Possibly but this is what I do when I see designs close to mine…I make subtle changes and in doing this I've become more true to my line of designs, plus it makes it harder for people to copy because of refining a technique or using components that most people prefer not to use. Take barbwire for example; many craftsmen work with it, but I rarely see it used in the way I use it, one because it is dangerous and two because there are much easier ways to use it, so many stick with that. Does all that make sense? I am more, stretched and challenged, when I see designs that are close to mine. But I stay true to my technique and highlight that aspect of my designs to set them apart from others.
It really boils down to giving credit where credit is due. Respect. We must always respect others and hope to be respected ourselves. For those who have the 'great idea' and others begin to follow, you can't ever stop that. It doesn't mean it goes down well, it just means that this is what art and creativity are all about. And if you didn't expect others to latch on to a good thing, you'd keep everything you ever created to yourself and never share. Very often great minds think alike. And I'm sure artists from past centuries went through exactly the same thing. We all want to be acknowledged for what we do and what we contribute. So credit and a thank you always go a long, long way. It's called being inspired.
Anonymous,
I did ask an artist friend to paint a cow for me, but only using the original painting as inspiration. If you see the inspiration and the one my friend painted, you'll see they are very different.
Second, I am not writing this post because I feel copied.! I wouldn't publish tutorials if I didn't want to show people how to recreate my work. I think it's an honor. I do get a lot of questions about this subject and that was my motivation for writing this post.
Hope that clears it up!
Miss Mustard Seed
I used to teach workshops and many doing the same would ask me why I shared so many secrets/processes. For me it was the excitement of my students and their wonderful results. Many times they even found other uses for what was being used. Loved the creativity which evolved.
I did have an artist loved which I used for some of my projects. when published I always mentioned her name as the resource for my idea. Part of this out of respect for the artist and part to let other know of her work and why I loved what she did.
It is my understanding that you can recreate a source, but not in the same manner, materials or printables. Most serious is if the item is copyrighted and/or you attempt to sell the item you created exactly as the artist…mis represent.
I have great respect for other creative selves and appreciate their sharing. My recreations are mine alone, have no need to "copy" another, it would then not be mine.
You sound like my kind of gal/artist.
Sandy in CO
Interesting topic. My experience is that if someone is copying you and passing their work off as your own, you're not the only one they are screwing without the proverbial KY. I had a situation a few years ago with someone who blatantly ripped me off product, title, etc and found out later on, she did the same to two larger companies who smacked her with C&D;'s. If they are bold enough to steal from you, they will do it to to others and eventually get snagged somewhere down the line.
Funny, I was thinking about this scenario while reading blog posts this week. I find it humorous how someone can bitch and complain in a long winded blog post with links to such and such's blog calling them liars, thieves, etc. in regard to copying "their" design but in the next breath (or post) rip off Pottery Barn or Anthropology with a knock off.
Hi Marion…I read your blog posts all the time although I don't comment as often as I'd like, I'm the one you mentioned that need pictures and tutorials to make something and I'm so thankful for the blogging world for that! I usually use what I have for a project so it usually isn't the exact same thing as what I'm copying plus I'm a little on the thrifty side and want it cheap! I love your blues and whites and I did my desk that way (I'll be posting about that soon) and I had the furniture that you have done in mind while I was doing the desk. I also take to heart all the tips that you give us and believe it or not they sometimes stick in my head as I'm painting so we do learn from you.
About copying a selling? Myself I think it all comes down to good manners and what you have been taught growing up…thou shall not steal! That doesn't mean just a store or bank!
Thank you for you time and energy with your posts ( I don't know how you do it with the little ones)I always enjoy them!
Rondell
People should learn that there's nothing wrong with giving credit where credit is due. I think people will think more highly of you if you do and you are honest and up front. Don't hesitate to say you've been inspired by so and so, but do put your own twist to things, even if it's just changing the colour. And do give credit to pictures borrowed from other sites!
A very good post, Marion.
Very well said, Miss Marion. This issue divides so many in the crafting, blogging, and vintage worlds… I don't think it will ever be a 'settled' issue. We deal with it constantly in our business ( dealing with a copy issue right now, actually, and in our own local circuit) and can only hope to help educate the masses about why it is so wrong. And I firmly believe that there IS such a thing as an original idea, thankyouverymuch! Had you ever seen a baby grand piano turned into a wine bar before RETREAT unveiled ours at Farm Chicks in '09? ;0)
When this happens to us, we post to remind people what our original product was/is, when we released it for marketing/sale, and what our design inspiration/process were… this seems to make the copycats hush up and pull their inferior imitations off of their blogs. My particular pet peeve is local girls who photograph our products and then create them, blog about them claiming it's their original idea, and then sell theirs on the same local vintage circuit that we do. And they think they can get AWAY with this????? Ethics, people! Don't try to build your own creative business on OTHER people's creativity. Period.
Deb @ Retreat
I go for the Yin and Yang of life. I was in marketing and people were always stealing ideas and presenting them as new and original. Sooner or later it catches up with them.
Same must be true in DYI Blog land.
Or as my old boss use to say – it is what it is, what really matters is when you are on your hands and knees with the Lord.
While I agree mostly with your sentiment on this, I really also feel that it is respectful to include a link to your inspiration, if a project was greatly inspired by a person/designer/blog.
For example, I worked on a project that i blogged last weekend and shared with my readers that it was influenced by Natty by Design. First, because I want to expose my readers and friends to her, but also because I think attributing credit where it is due is not only fair, but also classy, respectful and what Jackie would do 😉
It's only fair to credit others if you are copying their projects. I try to do this always, as in this post – http://www.thedesignfile.net/thedesignfile/2011/06/diy-a-succulent-planter-you-can-create.html – in which I admitted to a DIY ripoff and linked to the original.
But I also think that people have to be careful about believing that all their ideas are original. I think there are few truly original ideas. You could be doing something you think is unusual and then learn that someone else in another part of the country is doing the same thing – without ever seeing your products/writings/ideas.
Also, it's impossible not to be inspired by others. I'm a reporter by trade and my colleagues and I rarely tell each other our story "leads" or first graphs because it's impossible not to be influenced by someone else's idea. That doesn't mean we're copying. It's just part of the creative process.
Just my thoughts. – Lesley @ The Design File
Every week, someone tells me we've inspired them to "do what we do". It's inspiring to us, to be able to encourage others to be creative and follow their passion. And make no mistake, you must be passionate about this business to succeed. Will these folks invest the same time, energy, and dedication that we do? Maybe. Maybe not.
Am I irritated when people ask me for advice under the guise of doing a piece for their own home, only to discover that is not their intention at all? Absolutely!
Can I say it doesn't bother me to see a nearly identical piece for sale, with nearly identical wording, with the same keywords? If I said it didn't bother me, I'd be a liar.
I try to remember that I'm probably not the first to photograph a certain way, or use a different technique, or use a specific paint or phrase…I'm probably inadvertently "copying" someone else. Perhaps someone else is complaining right now that I've copied them, and I have no idea who they even are.
We've adapted a philosophy; work harder than everyone else, and always try to do something new and original. Keep it fresh!
In the big scheme of things, copycats are "small potatoes"!
I say that you let "anonymous" readers toilet paper the houses of those that are copying and selling your stuff ; ) Love, Anonymously http://www.youaretalkingtoomuch.com
Wonderful advice. I have kinda thought there are those how make and those who buy. If the ones who make copycat what you do it is not going to hurt your sales because they weren't going to buy anyway. And those who buy are still going to buy.
I can't wait for your waxes tutorial. I have a desk I want to redo for my boys bed room and I have been wanting to try milk paint and wax to refinish it. I am just a little nervous because usually I just slap so paint on stuff, but this time I really want to figure out how to do it the right way.
Copyright holders frequently refer to copyright infringement as "theft". In law copyright infringement does not refer to actual theft, but an instance where a person exercises one of the exclusive rights of the copyright holder without authorization.[5] Courts have distinguished between copyright infringement and theft, holding, for instance, in the United States Supreme Court case Dowling v. United States (1985) that bootleg phonorecords did not constitute stolen property and that "…interference with copyright does not easily equate with theft, conversion, or fraud. The Copyright Act even employs a separate term of art to define one who misappropriates a copyright… 'an infringer of the copyright.'" In the case of copyright infringement the province guaranteed to the copyright holder by copyright law is invaded, i.e. exclusive rights, but no control, physical or otherwise, is taken over the copyright, nor is the copyright holder wholly deprived of using the copyrighted work or exercising the exclusive rights held.[6]
I am always inspired by others work.The keyword here is to be inspired, not a thief.
I just may use these words on my homepage.
"Look around, be inspired to create, but please don't steal".
Like others have said there are not too many truely orginal ideas in decorating or crafts. I read a lot of blogs and magazines and its not often I'm surprised by anything. I think many bloggers need to remember not everyone is reading their blog and "copying" their idea that has been around for 20 years and is recycled.
There are only so many variations of ideas, and I think it is easy to point a finger and say your idea has been stolen, when nothing is very original to begin with.
I don't create to sell, I create and decorate for ME and my home alone, so I am in a bit of a different ballpark. But when I have been copied (I have!), it doesn't bother me because another person can never be me! They can put a dresser in their house similar to mine but they can never have a home that feels just like mine because they aren't me and can't crawl around in my mind. I never run out of creative ideas and original creations, so if they choose to copy something I do, I choose to be flattered. Great post. I love your blog!
Alana (bighappyfamily@suddenlink.net)
Glad I popped over to read this! I can't tell you how many times my business partner and I have had these discussions. Not necessarily in our "faux" world, but we began building and painting home decor products and selling at shows and then eventually wholesale. Ugh, no one told us we were entering the world where copycats prowled. We would walk into stores and see direct knock off's of our very original creations. I wish I could sit down with them and explain that they are LITERALLY stealing food off my families table. Yes, everyone says take it as a compliment. We try. But I think more than anything it just hurts, like a disappointing hurt, that someone so easily "steal" your idea as theirs. Plus, you feel as though you put in all the time and hard work and they are reaping your rewards.
On the other hand, it pushed us! We were driven to come up with new designs and new creations. And we were adamant about being certain we were not doing anything that someone else had already done. With people chomping at your heals, it propels you forward into more original creativity.
Great post!!!
when i discovered blog world and started reading around ( i dont have my own blog, or an etsy shop), i thought it was apparently the norm to copy…i've seen many people post "how to's" for pottery barn, anthropologie, etc copys.
i've also noticed most blogs have tutorials on their projects..i thought we were meant to copy…us decorator dummies come on to the blogs, read the tutorial and go and copy it…guess the tutorials should come with a disclaimer for us dummies!
Hello:
First of all, a huge shout out to Laurie for doing the transcribed wax 101… I will forever be grateful to you and Marian.
Secondly: I am a firm believer if your product does not have a "copyrighted" done to it, it's a game! If you don't want it to be copied, get it copied right and if they still do copy your idea… go after them with your lawyer.
I do admit that I do have an idea that will get my Deaf customers to buy this product of mine but the fear of copying and all of my hard work will go into the drain very fast. I am way too poor to get it copied right and get myself a lawyer.. but perhaps one day, I shall do it.
Great post, Marian. I typed up a draft of a similar post recently. I could easily type 5 paragraphs here but I will say this – There ARE such things as original ideas, designs, and thoughts. Just ask Da Vinci or Bach. (Well actually, DV was even trying to copy birds/God but…) We tell ourselves that 'nothing is truly original' to perhaps feel better about borrowing or maybe we've never truly created something original. Most of us just don't have such a gift, which is why they'll never make a movie about my code. I say that not with condemnation but from the fact that personally, I don't think I've ever created anything truly original, except for my children (and I can't even take full credit for that)! I've been inspired and have thought and created original interpretations, techniques, or designs though, and in my opinion, copying them exactly and taking credit as if it were your own is just plain wrong. Like you, I blog to inspire and be inspired and the sharing of ideas through venues like the internet isn't a license to abandon morality. It's as simple as giving credit where credit is due or putting your own creative style on something if you're going to make a profit (in either fortune or fame) from it. What is no big deal to one person, could be someone else's dream. I've been both flattered and frustrated too. At the end of day, it is what it is though and I agree, opt for creativity instead of frustration. I've had fun with a few new designs & photography this weekend! Blogging about it tonight. Be blessed.
…and that was very sweet of Laurie to transcribe that tutorial! I'm catching up on posts here and forgot that it was in the same post. There are some wonderful hearts out there!
I feel like being inspired by ones idea is better than copying. Being a runner up in your copy me challenge , I found it crazy that so many of our pieces were already alike without even trying to be! But, after seeing your burlap chair and union jack dresser I just had to "copy" the idea. However, when I "copied" it I actually took bits and pieces then added my own little style and flair and made them completely different pieces! Someone said above me , "there are no original ideas." I remember I thought I was an absolute genius for using drop clothes to slip cover my sofa (seriously thought I was something) After it was complete , I googled drop clothes only to find out I was the 984zillionth person to have the idea! haha
I've been told I'm very creative. The truth is, just about everything I do is a copy. Not a blatant one, mind you (usually), but an inspired piece. That's why I love blog-hopping. I get so many wonderful ideas from you ladies (and men).
I think it's important to give credit to the original, though- at least the original that I saw. For instance, I just did a French dresser that was inspired by something I saw on a blog. I couldn't remember where, and I mentioned that if I could link to it, I would. A few days later, I found it, went back, and edited my entry to include the link. I think God was happy with me.
I create files for cutting on the Cricut. I have one that I'm particularly pleased with, and I'm going to use it for as the logo for my new business. The design is completely original, and if I saw someone using it for their own financial gain, I think I would be upset. However, like one of your bloggers said, if you don't want it copied, don't put it out there. My daughter writes some pretty nice songs. I told her that she shouldn't put any of her music on line until she has a formal copyright for it. She complied, and I think she's happy that legally, nobody can take her work.
Just my 2 cents.
Fondly, Tami
http://www.thisandthatfromtami.blogspot.com
Hey Marian. I STILL say that PB copied your Christmas ornaments, and that bugs me. It's kind of funny, but I get more aggravated when people try to pass your ideas off as their own than I get about someone copying mine. 🙂 I grew up with my mama redoing furniture. She was painting pieces and wallpapering back…she redid pieces and left the tops stained, she would paint a piece a few colors. Even though I grew up watching her do that it was YOU who inspired me to do some projects myself. I've always painted pieces of furniture, but I really dove in after seeing through your tutorials and posts how easy it can be. Recently I was dedoing pieces for a shop in my hometown. I've now seen that a guy who works for them has started copying my pieces (down to colors) and is selling them there. He emailed me when he was working on his first piece, and I helped him get started. Now. I'm happy that he's jumped in and is enjoying it, but it does smart when I see that EVERY SINGLE PIECE is a version of pieces I've done. All my friends and family have noticed and are aggravated. I'm just nice about it, even though I want to tell him to try something on his own. What really pushed me over the edge was when I saw a grain sack covered bench he'd done. I commented that he must have found Miss Mustard Seed, because I'd seen the sack and he'd mentioned the Fiddes wax etc. He said "I found her a few days ago, but I've been doing this for months." WHATEVER. I know that no one in Jackson, Alabama would use a grainsack to cover a bench painted in chalk paint and waxed with Ruggar brown on THEIR OWN. SERIOUSLY. Just say, Yes. I found her and got some great ideas. I'm always telling people how I have been inspired by pieces you've done… That's just respect for people. Lack of respect. THAT'S what bothers me. If you copy someone just give the original creator credit. Plain and simple.
Loulou- for some reason Blogger won't let me log in…
My heart sank a little bit. The World/United States of Love line that I created is one of the reasons that I was able to quit my full-time job. They even stole the item name as well as some of my copy.
I’m very disappointed in Urban Outfitters. I know they have stolen designs from plenty of other artists. I understand that they are a business, but it’s not cool to completely rip off an independent designer’s work.
I’ll no longer be shopping at any of their stores [they also own Free People & Anthropologie], and I’m going to do my best from here on out to support independent designers & artists.
Please feel free to pass this link on. I really appreciate all the support & love I’ve received today.
Great post Marian! I was just thinking about this in relation to you this past week (and I'm just now getting caught up on your posts…) I recently came across a local store here in my hometown in OR, that had a Union Jack dresser!!! That was weird! I know that everyone has loved that piece and it made such a huge impact in the blog world, but I always wondered if it bugged you at all. I think I'd have mixed feelings on it. Thanks for all the info. Good stuff to ponder.
I agree a lot with comment 3. I notice there's some "blog bullies" on the web who feel like everything is theirs to claim. "There is nothing new under the sun" So true! None of these people are the originators of anything- we're all getting ideas off the same internet. I don't understand the "mine" mentality… I mean, says who?
I was told by a friend to 'hurry up' and get my crate stairs in a magazine somewhere, somehow, because someone would eventually copy them and he wanted the originality traced back to me.
Not sure about the quote, 'there are no original ideas' in cases like this…
Anyway, my stairs made the grade. Currently published in one and another feature on the way! It's all we can really do I suppose.
And then just go invent more original things. 🙂
Donna
Back when my company was just Lucid Designs, I noticed that someone in Canada had opened a design firm of the same name (yes, I google myself often!). Interested, I clicked her link and saw that she had stolen my logo… The very logo that I had designed my very self years before! The only difference was that she put a shadow on it. I was quite offended, but figured since she was in Canada that it wouldn't hurt me a bit. But the fact that she is a designer that couldn't come up with her own logo really makes me wonder what she is able to design on her own. I've since added "Interior Finishes" to my company name, which makes it way too long but at least there is a much smaller chance of anyone stealing it.
Marion, You are wonderful! Thank you for this all encompassing post; you convey such an important topic. Do you mind if I "copy" your text (with linkage to you) on my blog? I'm fairly surprised at some of the negative feedback associated with this post, but like the Bible says – there is nothing new under the sun. It's all about designing quality work and staying ahead of the game and working with integrity. I design sewing patterns, and while dresses are nothing new, we've been wearing them for hundreds of years; learning to make your own and designing instructions is slightly different. You certainly have the gift of talent, and you work hard with relentless effort. Hard work is half the battle; keep it up, and enjoy the blessing.
P.S. What glaze do you suggest for a sewing room with white furniture? I have Ralph Lauren Tea Glaze left over from our kitchen.
I find this post rather troubling also. I love following lots of blogs including yours. I truthfully haven't seen many unique ideas in most of these blogs. Ideas are intentionally and unintentionally lifted and recreated. I am 50+ and have seen over the last 30+ years painted furniture, refinished furniture in "your" colors, the use of slipcovers from dropcloths, the use of grain/flour sacks for furniture and pillows etc. the use of music paper, and on and on.
I think the thing is that you just have to really enjoy what you do. Don't worry what others are doing. You are totally productive and you follow your passions. You have a great blog.
Xerox copies…artists create. I read that somewhere, but can't remember where or I would credit the person who first said it. LOL!
On a serious note, I did a post last week about your desire for a cow picture, which made ME want a cow picture, so I painted my own. I gave you credit and a thank you for inspiring me but I didn't copy either the cow picture you originally wanted, or the one you commissioned. Ideas abound, and it's what we do with them that count.
I just had to read this and chime in also because I too feel totally weird whenever I create a piece because I'm afraid I might copy someone. I mean, even to the point of where I worry that I may upset or ruin an established professional relationship with someone I see as a mentor. I even try to stay away from certain colors because I know those colors are "trademarks" of the person who uses them. Now I will admit that I have seen something someone has done and thought, DANG! I totally have the materials to create the exact same thing! But in the long run even though it will be close to what I was inspired by, I will MAKE SURE it isn't a direct copy of what that person made – along with crediting the person who inspired me.
I've seen my best friend who creates jewelry constantly get copied (mostly from people visiting her booths at festivals) and I see how it has affected her creativity and outlook on the DIY creative atmosphere online. It's just sad when it's an obvious carbon copy for profit.
Anyways, I'm so new at this game and I do feel inspired by all these blogs. (I mean, some of you girls are heartstoppingly amazing with your furniture redo's.) I stop by and all these blogs and see pretty pictures of decor, but then I start feeling too inspired… almost to the point of saying, ooooh I want that in my home or I want to create one just like that. So I have found myself having to take breaks and spending time with myself in my own mind to use my imagination to become inspired. Then again, that alone is a double edged sword. How do I know what people like and what is popular if all I do is hermit up in my studio? Does that make sense?
Enough long windedness. To make a long story short – too late – thank you for this post. It helps a newb like me understand how the veterans feel. 🙂
I love your blog Miss Mustard Seed. I can appreciate your view point and kindness of spirit on this issue. I can't tell you the number of times I had a "brilliant" idea that I have never seen anywhere before only to see it in the next day, week, month elsewhere. From my point of view that has stopped me in the past from following any business idea I might have had. But there is a large market out there. Lots of creative people. I am working on telling myself that someone will want MY version and spin on something over others even if the next day, week, month, or year someone else thinks up their own brilliant idea that looks like mine…
There is nothing new under the sun after all.
I don't know how many times I have come up with an idea and become very passionate about it only to find some one beats me to the punch. I think ideas have a life of their own. So many things that are in style right now are basically recreations of past creations. I get so inspired by so many blogs and get the 'i can do that' bug all the time. And why should I have to give up my idea just because someone made it first? People just need to be encouraged to do their own thing and appreciate others do also.
I can understand where people get offended or irritated when they see their idea copied. But, there is a difference between an idea and an invention. Copying furniture finishes and fabric ideas is not a copyright infringement, but copying an invented product is. Blogging is a social media outlet where ideas are shared and people get comfortable copying them because they are encouraged to do so (i.e. "Copy Me Challenge.) That said, it isn't right to copy someone's idea without giving credit. Blogging opens up so many opportunities (financial and fame) for people that otherwise wouldn't be there for them. The caveat is that ideas are shared and copied. You have to take one for the team is that is avenue you choose to persue.
Just want to say, I love a lot of things vintage. I love everything Cottage White. I read a lot of blogs and read about Annie Sloan paint on several people's blog. When I painted something and blogged about it, I linked back to the tutorials I read – I'm sure I may have read about the paint from other people, but I don't remember who. There must be all kinds of people like me, who get ideas from you guys and want to try it. If I find a cool piece of furniture to refinish 3 months from now and I experiment with my own color combination, how will I pick which blog to link back to?
I also like to sew – I just bought white cotton fabric to make pillows with ruffles on the edge and an envelope type closure. I know that other people sell this exact same style, but did they invent it? (I understand if I copy someone's bird or crown and use their design, that's not cool)
I've always wanted to have my own store and admire all of you who do – if I sell white stoneware and white pillows and you sell white stoneware and white pillows, did I copy you?
Like I said, I admire all of you and you all inspire me…. There must be a fine line somewhere and I hope to never cross it. Just know, I want to be like all of you …. and I hope it's not stealing.
To the commenter above…
No, I don't think that using the same paint or selling white stoneware and white pillows is copying. If you make an exact knockoff of someone's design, then that is copying. If you were inspired by someone else, it's nice to link to them, but you don't have to go overboard with it. There are so many great ideas and inspiration floating around!
Miss Mustard Seed
You are right, copycats can be so flattering but irritating too. I also had encountered them and no matter how I try to control myself, I end up getting so annoyed. I came across a video that also talks about copycats and how to deal with them. It’s a great video from Marie Forleo. http://marieforleo.com/2012/01/how-to-deal-with-copycats/
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