Back in the Saddle Again

Well, it's been ages since I've sewed. I actually had to dust off the sewing machine! We had a rainy day here on Monday and a chilly day yesterday, so I was more motivated to get back to business. With my goal to dress the little one in mostly handmade this summer, I decided to test out a new pattern on her. I bought a vintage overall pattern a couple weeks ago because I really wanted to add a pair to my shop. All the overall patterns I've seen are essentially the same thing, but I liked how this one had a solid top bib, instead of the entire front being made from two separate pieces.

This pair was made out of the salt and pepper denim (I have loads of this because of an order mix-up) and some vintage buttons. The vintage trim was one of the freebies in my Sew, Mama, Sew order. I think they're cute and they fit perfectly. The fabric is practically impossible to photograph. These photos really don't do it justice.

I wanted to add some to my shop, with a slightly modified fit in a lovely linen. My friend Heather gave me the idea when I asked her what would be good for some little lads. I loved her idea of having a linen pair of short-alls for the boys for special occasions! Does anyone know the copyright laws on vintage patterns? I was under the assumption that they were okay to use if you altered them a little. This is from the early 70's and the package has nothing stating "for personal use only". If it is legal, it might take me some time to get these in the shop. The pattern is one size and I think I would offer these from 6 months-2T, so I would have to do some resizing. But if anyone knows the copyright laws on vintage patterns, I would love to be informed! Thanks!

Comments

[Jean]

Hi, I hopped over from RavenHill and saw that you were asking about copy rights on old patterns. As far as I understand you can use the patterns for whatever you want. You have paid for your pattern and what you do with it now is up to you. If you think about it; I see people making bags from patterns that they buy but they almost always give credit to who made the pattern/where they bought it/etc...
If you were pulling in millions of $'s from it there might be a problem (not to say that you won't make $...)but, it shouldn't be a problem. As long as you give credit where credit is due.
Good luck.

[Jean]

Ohhhh, I just read your about me section and you mentioned that when you use vintage patterns that you alter them! That does it right there! Since you have altered them, from what I understand, it is no longer copying the original pattern. Oh, and I salute your efforts at living green! I grew up in Wash./Ore. and now live in Utah... green in everything is important. And if you really want a cloth diaper pattern that works... let me know!
Jean

[Bluebirdbaby]

Thank you Jean! I have always altered any vintage pattern I've used (I used one for bloomers in my shop), but for this one I don't see much I can alter. That's why I was asking. I was under the impression that you had to modify a vintage pattern, and then it was okay, but I wanted to double check. I'll see what others have to say..
Thanks for your help!!

[Heather W.]

so sweet erin!

Congrats on winning over at Sew Mama Sew! =)

[Carrie]

The overalls look so cute! I love them!

[natasha s]

Those are cute Erin:0)
Talk to you soon;0)
Natasha

[Tava/Yarnmama]

Ok- I want these too!

[Ram in the Thicket]

Those are really cute Erin! Great for both genders ;o)

[periwinkle]

Very cute, your daughter looks so adorable.
Lisa x

[amanda]

this web site has some helpful information on copyright...
http://www.purplekittyyarns.com/info/copyright.html