Question

[CNLNC]

Sorry, I didn't know where to post this question, so I figured I would ask it here. I tried to go through most of the old posts regarding copyright stuff (and yes the horse is dead), and I think I understand most of it. Just have 2 question for clarification sake. So, here it goes...
If I find a picture of a professional teams logo on the internet using google image, and then I make a pattern from that picture for my sole use, and I cut said pattern for only myself, then...
1. Did I do anything wrong? (I think NO)
2. Can I post a picture of the finished project on this forum? (I think YES)

Thanks for the help, and sorry again if this topic is too repetative.

[julief]

What you make for yourself or to give as a gift is your business - selling their logo is their business.
I would love to see the post of the finished projects.

[mrsn]

I believe you are correct. As long as you don't make any money off of what you make you are in the clear.

[GrayBeard]

This is one of the 'unclear areas' of copyright law.

Technically the team owns the rights to that logo and every form of it. Those rights are then licensed to manufacturers, artists, ad agencies, etc. for the exclusive right of reproduction in any way shape or form. If any product is sold which contains any representation of that logo you are in violation and will be taken to court.

Where the gray area comes in is in what you personally do with that reproduction. Using it for your own enjoyment and in your own home should not get you into trouble with the copyright holder. IF you display the image in any way shape or form and it gets back to the holder of the copyright you will likely get a 'cease and desist' letter from their legal department before any other action is taken.
Should you continue to display it you will likely find yourself in court fighting a very large corporation with a huge legal staff at their disposal.

IF you post the it on this or any other forum, social networking site, etc. it then becomes the direct responsibility of the OWNER of that site and that owner will get the letter and could be in violation and be sued!

Therefore...IF you make something using a known team logo...DO NOT POST it here!
We need to keep Steve out of the mouths of the sharks that would like to make an example of such an infraction and virtually ruin him!

I know I sound like I am 'pontificating' but I have seen it happen and it is not a pretty situation!

Simply said...when it comes to COPYRIGHTS if there is the least inkling of doubt...DON'T!

And as is so often said..."Ignorance of the law is no excuse and carries no weight in the courtroom!"

~~~GRAYBEARD~~~

[Russ C]

All I can say is that GrayBeard took the words right out of my mouth. He has explained it all very well. Thanks GB.

[GrayBeard]

You all have to remember that I was in the 'printing' business for many, many years and we had to deal with such things all the time. Especially when copy machines became the mainstay of the local offices!

~~~GB~~~

[CNLNC]

Thanks all for the info and clarification.
I guess I will not be sharing this project since I do not want to get this forum, or Steve, into any legal trouble. That is why I asked first before posting a pic.
OK...now back to the saw