It is tempting to stitch popular logos, sports teams, and cartoon characters because customers ask for them — but doing so can expose your business to serious legal trouble. Understanding copyright and trademark basics protects you. This is general guidance, not legal advice.
The Core Rule
You generally cannot reproduce someone else's copyrighted artwork or trademarked logo for sale without permission. That includes brand logos, sports team marks, and licensed characters — even if a customer requests it.
What's Risky to Stitch
- •Brand and company logos you don't own or represent
- •Sports team and league logos
- •Cartoon and movie characters
- •Copyrighted artwork and designs
- •Another business's branding
What's Safe
Your own original designs, designs you have licensed or have permission to use, a client's own logo (with their authorization), and properly licensed artwork are all fair game.
Protect Yourself
When a client provides a logo, confirm in writing that they own it or have the right to use it. This shifts responsibility and documents your good faith.
Create original, safe-to-sell designs:
Open the Converter →Get Authorization in Writing
When stitching a client's logo, have them confirm ownership in writing. It protects you and signals professionalism.
Respecting copyright and trademark keeps your business safe. Stitch your own and properly authorized designs, avoid unlicensed logos and characters, and get written authorization for client logos. Consult a professional for specifics.