How do you tell if a product is licensed?
Posted: Wed Jun 13, 2018 6:41 am
Hello all, it's been a while since I've posted. I have a question that I'm not really sure there is an answer to. Is there any way to tell if a chart is actually licensed? I mean, it's usually quite obvious that the Disney chart on Etsy for $5 is not. And I am fairly certain that HAED, Scarlett Quince, and Artecy are playing by the rules. But there are charts of Disney characters and other major franchises on what I would consider to be reputable, larger scale sites that I just don't see how the chart is being sold legally. For example, there is a well known artist that does so called deviant art that has several highly sexualized but instantly recognizable Disney characters along with other major franchises. I don't see Disney granting him licensure, yet he has a webpage and his art is for sale across multiple venues, including comic-con type conventions. Charts for his images are for sale from a well known online store, and they are upfront about having his permission to produce these charts. BUT, how does he have permission from Disney or how do I go about finding out if he does? I personally know a local artist that has done commissions for Disney (in fact, he has/had several of his watercolors on display at the old Dixie Landings resort) and he had to negotiate an agreement for payment, etc., but what was not negotiable was that he gave up all rights to the images once Disney took possession. I'm using this as an example, because it's easy - but what I'd really like to stitch is a Harry Potter franchise image. It's for sale from a reputable site, but I have never heard of JK Rowling, Universal Studios, or Scholastic licensing or producing cross stitch charts or kits. Is there somewhere to go to find out if someone has a licensing agreement with a major company? Thanks!
