Is it a copyright violation...

I'm starting a small handmade jewelry business in my spare time. I've taken some jewelry making classes at a local store. If I make jewelry based on the classes I've taken and using the store's designs, am I violating copyright law? I'm certainly not going to claim ownership of the design. Any suggested resources are appreciated.

Tags: copyright

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Permalink Reply by Dan Miller on July 18, 2012 at 5:06pm

Sharon,

No, you're perfectly fine to duplicate the designs you learned in the classes. This is not a "copyright" issue at all. With a big stretch it would be a patent issue - but a very weak one at that. The store could theoretically get a design patent on a really unique design. But that would be a very weak protection and I've never known someone to try to protect a jewelry design.

Check here for a brief explanation - Copyright or patent?