Copyright? Selling Diecuts

[carriesplaying]

I have been making diecuts for of all the island schools names and items native to Bar Harbor and Maine like baskets of blueberries, etc. for a new scrapbooking and quilting store.The store has been open a little over a month and my diecuts have been in the store for 3 weeks. My question is, even after reading all of the copyright files, is putting a sticker on the bag holding the diecut with the name I want to sell all of my creations under, Whimzy Cuts by Carrie, enough? Do I need to get a license or trademark or copyright or can I just sticker the bag and sell? I work full time and this is really just because I love paper crafting alot more than my job! I do one craft fair a year making and selling candles and cards but this is the first time I've sold in a store. I'm lacking in both money and time and am so confused. I doubt my sales would be even $25.00 and that's in a good month when the cruise ships are in almost every day.

Carrie in Bar Harbor

[Paperthreads]

Putting your label on it will suffice for now. IF you want to go further, and trademark your name, then you would fill out the paperwork and submit it....and get it trademarked. That would be something too look into.

Also, make sure you get a license to sell in your state, so that you are legitimate. Most states this means you simply get a federal id, because you aren't selling retail, but rather are selling wholesale.

[carriesplaying]

Thank you so much for the information and for the quick reply.
Carrie - Bar Harbor

[kabebout]

I believe copyrights would apply to your diecuts. Licensing applies to your business (the right to sell them) and to keep anyone from using your name you have to apply for a trademark. Depending on your local laws, licensing may make it so no one in that area can use your name. My husband and I had a business license years ago in Colo Springs and the license kept anyone else from being able to get a license with that name, but outside the state lots of people had the same name.

Good luck on your venture, Karen