KarlieRobinson.com

Hand knitting has to be one of the most tedious ways to create fabric, but like so many others, I’m addicted to it and fuel my addiction by sharing the patterns I have created.  Now that I’m writing up patterns, one thing I don’t understand  is why some designers annex their copyright saying that you’re not suppose to use their pattern if you’re going to sell the finished item.

When I create a pattern, I have time on my side.  Although I put in hours of work to develop the pattern and  knit a prototype, I can count on reselling the same pattern many times and many visits to my blog to see the free patterns.  In theory, I’ll eventually break even and may even profit as long as people keep coming back.

However, when someone buys a hand knitted object, they have no need for a pattern.  Regardless of skill, or time, if the buyer could knit the object themselves they would and since they’re not, the pattern used isn’t even a consideration.

Therefor, if people are going to create items for sale from my patterns, I’m going to encourage them to do it.

Here are my caveats (AKA help a Sista out)…

• Do not redistribute patterns.  After all, selling patterns and blog visitors is what keeps me going. If you sell the yarn I used in one of my patterns and want to redistribute it, please contact me.  My bulk rates are reasonable and I’ll even personalize the PDF with your shop address and logo so it will look snazzy for your customers.
• If you have helpers knitting finished objects for you, please buy a copy of the pattern for each of them.  Again, selling patterns keeps me going and my bulk rates are reasonable.
• You must include attribution with the object.  If you’re selling online, please include a link back to either the blog post, here, or the Ravelry pattern.  Or if you’re selling at a craft fair, a note safety pinned to the object with pattern name, Karlie Robinson Designs and  KarlieRobinson.com is the way to go.
• If you like the pattern well enough to create finished objects to sell, would you do me a favor and post pictures and details at Ravelry? I’d love to see your work.

So here’s to all the budding fiber arts entrepreneurs.  I hope my patterns contribute to your success.