Is a Copyright Required to Protect T-Shirt Designs?
Creating designs for T-shirts can be a lot of fun. Today's technology means your creations can go from your mind and into the hands of the public faster and easier than most of us ever thought possible. When you are designing logos for T-shirts, keep copyright laws in mind. Filing for a copyright isn't required for T-shirt designs, but it can save you a lot of hassle if you decide to sell your creations.
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What is Copyright?
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Copyright is a legal term stating that you own a particular idea, phrase or image. An image or idea is considered copyrighted at the moment of its inception.
Do Designs Require a Copyright?
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It is not necessary to file a copyright for T-shirt designs. However, if you don't file a copyright, it could make it easier for others to use your idea without permission--or make it harder to prove when you came up with the idea.
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Where to FIle a Copyright
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File a copyright at the U.S. Copyright Office. It is fairly inexpensive. You can learn more at copyright.gov.
Tips
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Base your decision on filing a copyright on what the end use of your design is going to be. If you are designing a logo to sell shirts to the public or to help market other products, you should file a copyright.
Warning
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Filing a copyright might not keep people from using your designs without permission. However, if you have to go to court, holding a copyright will make it easier to prove that the design belongs to you.
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