"how-to" book...rules??

What is the name of your state?What is the name of your state? Massachusetts

Hello,
I was wondering if the copyright (which states something like - "projects to use for personal use only") of "how-to" instructional craft book means that the copyright protects JUST the actual instructions from being used OR if the instructions AND final outcome of the project are protected? In other words if a craft was made from the instructions in the book could it be sold by the person who made it...or donated to a charity so they can sell it for their profit?

Thanks!!

Yes.........

Yes, meaning items made from "how-to" books can be sold for profit or donated to be sold without fear of copyright issues from the book publisher and/or author??

Yes.........

Thanks so much!!! Boy, that was the fastest response ever...and really to the point.

My response:

I think the intent of the author and publisher is that they maintain the copyright to their instructions, and that it is not for use to manufacture and sell the items as a business.

For example, if the book gives you instructions to make a "Widget", you do not have a license to start manufacturing "Widgets" and selling the "Widgets" wholesale to stores all over the country.

IAAL

No, but if they include a pattern to make a dress and the writer sews that dress, she can sell it.
Or if they include a pattern on how to make a wooden airplane, and the writer makes one, he can sell it.
Or if the describe the process of how to make a quilt, the writer can create it and sell it.

JETX said:

No, but if they include a pattern to make a dress and the writer sews that dress, she can sell it.
Or if they include a pattern on how to make a wooden airplane, and the writer makes one, he can sell it.
Or if the describe the process of how to make a quilt, the writer can create it and sell it.

Click to expand...

My response:

I am not disagreeing with you. We are on the same plane.

IAAL