So I bought something. Having seen Cloudsfactory's monthly astrology patterns on several different blogs, I decided to check out their website. And somehow, I ended up purchasing the "Labyrinth - Magic Dance" pattern...and then I started it ASAP.
I'm using the recommended DMC colors, and stitching this on a piece of 28-ct. Kiwi Illusions "Pumice."
But then, after I'd already paid for my pattern and started stitching it, I started wondering about copyright and trademark issues. :/ Nowhere on the site did it say anything about the designs - including a number of Disney-esque designs, superheroes, and other identifiable characters - being licensed. I know that some would say these fall under "fair use," as they are re-creations/parodies (?) of the characters in question...but I'm pretty sure the trademark holders would argue from a different position. I'm honestly totally on the fence on this one, since I obviously love the patterns and the style enough that I bought one of her patterns! And I know there are a number of designers who are selling things in this vein.
It is a confusing area - and this coming from a librarian who has attended workshops on copyright and fair use. Ah well, I'm just going to stick my fingers in my ears, keep humming the little tune I'm stitching, and finish the design I bought...then I'll frame it myself and hang it in my nerd-cave and never mention it again. LOL
