Is it Copying or is that Design just Trending?

Welcome to the Stitched By Podcast. The podcast where we speak with crafters, creators, designers and patternmakers in the sewing, knitting and crochet communities about the topics that matter most to them and to you.

In today’s episode we discuss the ongoing topic that comes up often in these communities: “Design Copying/Stealing.”If you are part of these communities, I’m sure you’ve seen this happen quite often. A designer/patternmaker feels that their design has been copied/stolen and they put it on social media for everyone to take in. Was their design stolen? Is their design just trending? What is causing this to happen? What is the solution?

As you listen to the podcast, here are some questions you can think about:

* What is creative inspiration?

* What is copying?

* How do you ensure you are not copying anyone with your own designs?

* What is “unique” design?

* When do you think design goes from referencing to copying?

* Where should the line be drawn?

* Is late stage capitalism to blame?

* Is there a solution to this problem?

About the Guests:

Jiaj (jiaj.co)

Jiaj's love for garment making and textile art began with embroidery. After leaving the corporate world, a sewing class in downtown Los Angeles sparked a journey that led to numerous sewing classes and tailoring courses, allowing him to immerse himself in the craft of garment making. He is currently building his shirt brand as a creative endeavor to bring a sense of whimsy back into everyday life.

Mei (mei.knits)

Mei is a knitter, knitwear designer and a content creator based in Brookyln, NY. She loves designing garments that feel playful, nostalgic, and fun to wear, often inspired by vintage fashion and Y2K Japanese street style. When she's not knitting, Mei enjoys travel, spending time with her two dogs outside and exploring all sorts of creative projects. She loves connecting with fellow makers and believes in celebrating the creativity and care that goes into handmade work.

Shay (thebookishalchemist)

Shay is a knitter, reader, content creator, and knitwear designer. She loves designing garments that feel like they stepped out of a story book, and regularly listens to books while working on fiber projects, specifically enjoys rich and captivating stories (especially Sci-fi and Fantasy). Shay loves spending time with her cats and her partner, as well as connecting with friends in various communities both online and in person.

I hope you enjoy the episode, please let me know what you think in the comments and if you like conversations like this.The next topic that is being planned is the ongoing “feud” between sewists and patternmakers in the sewing community… to be continued!If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed, please let me know in the comments!If you would like to watch the interview, you can find it on my YouTube channel here.

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