Leslie Rogalski, Editor-in-Chief of the Step by Step Beads Magazine addresses the "Copyrights and Copycats" issue as it applies to the fashion jewelry and beading industry. Of course, this also applies to apparel and other accessory design as well. Here are her thoughts:
- What is eligible for copyright protection: an original work is eligible for copyright protection the moment it is created
- You should establish protection for your work with the U.S. Register of Copyrights
- Protect yourself against copycats by:
* Placing a copyright notice on your work
* Don't let anyone take photos of your work or your booth at a craft show
* Keep records of who buys which items from you
* Get documentation such as business cards from buyers who show interest in your pieces
Of course, none of this advice is foolproof. I don't know about you, but it's almost impossible for me to get a record of every person who has purchased something from me. If you have any thoughts or advice to share, please do so via comments!
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