How Madonna Taught Us There was Nothing New Under the Sun (unless we copyrighted it)

When our outfit ideas started popping up at Urban Outfitters (not the leggings, dears) we thought we were trendsetters, and we were flattered. When our friends asked if they could be cool and tattooed like us we were again trendsetters and flattered. But when Madonna started sneaking into our closet at night and "borrowing" our carefully designed, regulation Marimello work uniform, we were hurt and we cursed her for steeeeealing. We rued the day another celeb would slink out on stage in our gear.
Wait, you think we're kidding?
Let us tell you, it's one thing for a celeb to popularize crafting in a cafe. We are appreciative for the credit a celeb gives our chosen vocation. But it's another thing entirely when Martha come out of the clink wearing YOUR poncho. Like they say, any publicity is good publicity, so long as you want to be associated with that. So, with only a few short weeks before Paris exits Twin Towers wearing the patented "Very Effective" model of the Marimello Signature Turban, let's get started!
Just so you know what you are up against, may we point you toward Gallahger's Gallery and Archive. This magazine shop in NYC has been supplying the worlds greatest designers with the worlds best vintage ideas for years people. If you saw it on a runway, it was salted away in a vintage Vogue in this shop first. This is not to say that you necessarily care about your ideas strutting down the catwalk, but we are sure the danger is there if you are publishing patterns. So read your publishing contracts carefully crafters.
Check out the site the government has put together for you: U.S. Copyright Office. It may be boring, but it might save your butt.
Also look into Creative Commons. Especially if you post your brilliance online. It gives you the flexibility to chose the way in which your designs (and words) can be repeated with out credit toward you.
And in a pinch, seal it with a kiss! As one faithful reader wrote in, you can always write something down or draw something out, seal it in an envelope and mail it to yourself. The seal and the postmark date will serve as testement that you had your idea first. Just remember not to open the mail when you get it back. We know how much you love getting mail.