barnbum

I sort of created a pattern for a kids' quilt. I say sort of because it has Log Cabin squares and Friendship Stars. It's more the idea of it being educational that I created. Is that something I should bother to write up to sell? Is it okay to sell something that I didn't create 100%? I just don't know how to even go about it if I did.....

Here's a photo of the quilt. It was in the Picture section earlier, which is where this idea started....

amma

I know that Patrice has one that is for sale :D

tlrnhi

I don't know, but I like it!!

patricej

yes. it's legal to write it up for sale ... assuming you haven't copied somebody else's specific use of those blocks AND you write the instructions yourself, in your own words. you can't copyright any of the public domain blocks. i'm not clear on whether you can copyright even unique layouts using public domain blocks. but you can copyright the instructions, photographs, graphic illustrations, etc.

Cordelia

Of course you can write it up and sell it. But, good luck with writing directions. I've designed several quilts and patterns and can't begin to document the directions.

Reading directions may seem easy enough, but with patterns, a lot of what we use in our brains is visual perception. Most people looking at your pattern would infer how to assemble it visually more than a paragraph of words.

However, we still need to know measurements, etc.

barnbum

I totally agree--I need the pictures.

I think I'll shelf this idea--until I'm really bored. Since that hasn't come up since 1963. it just may never get done. :wink:

Barb M

Karla, i think it would make a great "kit" project. You put in instructions with lots of photos, have pre-cut fabric, and all the person has to do is sew it together. Expectant moms would love this, and/or it would make great shower gifts. But i think put together as a kit could be a great idea.

Harmony

Barb is a genius--but we already knew that. I was just thinking that it would be a good kid project, although that would involve more of a financial investment. Something to consider, though.

quilterj

nice quilt.

Skeat

Don't shelf this idea!:))If success was easy, everyone would have done it:))LOL I have written patterns out, etc. Here's what you do. I always suggest to all when working on your own pattern, etc...keep notes as you go. Write what worked, what was easier, etc. When project is done, your notes will be too. Then sit and make a real draft of the process. (Keeping all in a file w/pattern name)Here's the big clue! Always assume the consumer is ignorant. Seriously. I call it making things 'dummy proof'. Don't assume they understand what a certain cut is or means. It is simple. When you break it down in steps, then viola! You have it!! If you aren't online or don't have a friend that has a site...then you could even enter this pattern in a quilt magazine. You can start out slower and then move forward. Do not shelf this! Or anything else you do! Go w/your gut! Also when you are done w/your directions, have a friend make this pattern...one that is a positive friend. This will make sure she(and everyone else) understands your directions. Also, if you design your own pattern to sell, etc...mail a copy of it to yourself and do not open the envelope...thus marking your date of originality! Keep it going!!! Skeat