Origami Copyright
Even tough origami is a joy shared by everyone, but it still has, like (almost) all other things, a copyright policy. This page would cover the basic information about origami copyright. For further details about copyright, please visit:
Robert Lang's website: http://www.langorigami.com/info/copyright.php4
OrigamiUSA: http://www.origami-usa.org/faq_copyright ; http://www.origami-usa.org/copyright
FAQ on Origami Copyright:
Q: What if I modify someone else's origami design? Can I republish my own version?
A: It depends on how much the work is modified. If you modify a Swan to another animal that looks similar to the original, i.e., a Goose, then you must credit the original composer of the model which you used for adaption. However, if you change it enough to make it something totally different, i.e., from a deer to an eagle, then it is modified enough to be your creation.
Q: I have a new method of folding someone elses's model. Do I have the rights to diagram for it?
A: Yes, if you developed your method of folding independently, without reference of the creation (i.e., by unfolding the creation, lokking at its crease pattern) or the creation's instructions or diagrams. However, if you find out that your method of folding is similar to the method the original creator's, then you should obtain the permission of the copyright holder for permission to redistribute diagrams.
However, keep in mind that the finished image of the creation is still the image of the original work, and you did not think of creating the model, but used the image of someone else's creation as the idea, so you would need to credit the original creator. It would be best to inform the original creator that you discovered another method of folding the creation.
Q: May I fold someone else's creation?
A: Yes, as many as you like, as long as they are for your personal useage. If you learnt the model from a book, the creator's website, etc., and you are folding it for a try or to practice, then it is acceptable. But, to fold it in a workshop when you are the instructor, and everyone is learning from you at the time that you are folding, even if you are just folding like usual, it is not allowed, as the audience may learn how to fold it. But, if you obtained the permission of the creator to teach the model, then it is okay.
Q: Where did your answers come from? (Did you just make this stuff up?)
A: I read from many reliable sources and used them for reference before writing this FAQ. (see question below.)
Q: Can I consider this as legal advise?
A: No. You may find them useful for understanding general issues, but for any specific legal question you should contact your own lawyer familiar with the relevant laws in your area. In particular, copyright laws vary somewhat from country to country.
Robert Lang's website: http://www.langorigami.com/info/copyright.php4
OrigamiUSA: http://www.origami-usa.org/faq_copyright ; http://www.origami-usa.org/copyright
FAQ on Origami Copyright:
Q: What if I modify someone else's origami design? Can I republish my own version?
A: It depends on how much the work is modified. If you modify a Swan to another animal that looks similar to the original, i.e., a Goose, then you must credit the original composer of the model which you used for adaption. However, if you change it enough to make it something totally different, i.e., from a deer to an eagle, then it is modified enough to be your creation.
Q: I have a new method of folding someone elses's model. Do I have the rights to diagram for it?
A: Yes, if you developed your method of folding independently, without reference of the creation (i.e., by unfolding the creation, lokking at its crease pattern) or the creation's instructions or diagrams. However, if you find out that your method of folding is similar to the method the original creator's, then you should obtain the permission of the copyright holder for permission to redistribute diagrams.
However, keep in mind that the finished image of the creation is still the image of the original work, and you did not think of creating the model, but used the image of someone else's creation as the idea, so you would need to credit the original creator. It would be best to inform the original creator that you discovered another method of folding the creation.
Q: May I fold someone else's creation?
A: Yes, as many as you like, as long as they are for your personal useage. If you learnt the model from a book, the creator's website, etc., and you are folding it for a try or to practice, then it is acceptable. But, to fold it in a workshop when you are the instructor, and everyone is learning from you at the time that you are folding, even if you are just folding like usual, it is not allowed, as the audience may learn how to fold it. But, if you obtained the permission of the creator to teach the model, then it is okay.
Q: Where did your answers come from? (Did you just make this stuff up?)
A: I read from many reliable sources and used them for reference before writing this FAQ. (see question below.)
Q: Can I consider this as legal advise?
A: No. You may find them useful for understanding general issues, but for any specific legal question you should contact your own lawyer familiar with the relevant laws in your area. In particular, copyright laws vary somewhat from country to country.
