I didn’t have issue with the boxy pouch – as you say, there are all sorts out there. But I wrote mine from scratch without looking at any others for inspiration, and I specifically wrote it for custom sizes. She took my formula and wrote her pattern – and even stated that on her site… “this pattern takes its sizes from this pattern…” Then she plagiarized all the steps (just like a freshman term paper), and even the drawings for how to lay out directional fabrics. She had my patterns for sale on her site with the title cut off, calling them “original pattern.” When I talked to her, she said “But I changed 5 things so it’s mine.” Nope. It’s mine.

How closely was her pattern mirrored to yours?

However, I must say, in the case of the ‘boxey’ bag. I have been making these for around 8 or 9 years, maybe longer. Not all 3 sizes, but like the gray one pictured at the top of the page. No, I haven’t written a pattern for this. Yes, I have made hundreds(?) and sold or given away most of them in various shapes and sizes over the years.

If I were to sit down tonight and write a pattern, how close would it come to your pattern? I haven’t seen your pattern, but odds are the steps are pretty darn close.

Please, I’m not saying she did or did not copy your pattern. I haven’t seen yours or her pattern. Just realize that this idea has been out there for a long time and there could be similarities.

I’m just saying. In this world where everyone wants to be the next viral blog or whatever, there are those out there that troll for information, then copy it as their own. I have found that with blog entries that I write. I sweat blood trying to write good copy, which is shared for free, then other ‘would-be’ t-shirt quilt makers copy it. I have to realize that I did not create the t-shirt quilt, but endeavor to write new and creative articles about the subject. Frustrating, but such is life.

Best of luck in your pattern designs.

Betty
T-Shirt Quilts of Texas

I would like to use the layout & design for buttons that I may give out at homeshows, Quilt bee’s etc.

Could you please reply to me.

Thanks

Hi Eileen! I miss you too! There are opportunities everywhere to steal or be stolen from, and the line between being inspired by someone and ripping them off can get fuzzy – and I imagine it exists in all the arts. I would have loned to hear the John Denver tune!

Thank you for the support and encouragement!

I really like this idea! I feel your pain. I’m so lame in the design area that no designer is in danger. But it also happens all the time in music. Sometimes by accident; sometimes intentionally. Sucks. I have a friend who is a composer. While recovering from surgery and still on pretty heavy duty drugs he composed a song that he was so excited about. Thought it was one of hid best efforts. When the Vycodin wore off he realized he had totally ripped off a John Denver tune. LOL. Take care. Miss you.

I had posted a free pattern on Craftsy and they contacted me and said someone accused me of copying (I hadn’t). I don’t know who it was, (don’t care) but I had Craftsy remove my pattern as I didn’t want to fight over who was right and I wasn’t charging for mine. Maybe I would have responded differently if I was.

You are right, writing a pattern, testing, retesting etc. all take a lot of time and money.

I have a similar pattern but your pattern seems to have more finished elements in it than the one I bought (a long long time ago, at a quilt show, so I doubt it is the same person).