Costumes! Costumes! Costumes!

More Copyright Stuff..

So now you’ve built a snowman costume, and have gone against my advice as having a look alike character, or giving it a name (like ‘Frosty’).

Your ego suggests that you lend it (or even rent it) to your neighbors or your local school or church; or possibly wear it in a parade.  After all, you are a good friend and citizen, and want to help.  But you also want a little recognition for your generosity.

Will you be found out, as to using a copyrighted character or copyrighted name?  And what are the ramifications if you are?

If your costume is used once a year in the privacy of your home; you likely won’t be found out. Once, however, you expand into other areas (see above), your chances of being outed are increased exponentially.  And the ‘outing’ might be something as simple as a photo that gets onto Facebook.

If the copyright owners find out, then you might be looking at something as simple as a ‘cease and desist’; or possibly something as serious as a lawsuit of which you will likely lose.

Again the caveat is to not build a copyrighted character; and to not use a copyrighted name. 

Be creative.  Make up your own character, and make up your own name.  You might even want to copyright it yourself.

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