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Greeting Cards Software Copyrights - Part One

Avoiding Copyright Issues When Using Software Programs

How can I use computer software design programs, like PrintShop, to create my own customized and unique designs without violating their trademark and copyright laws?

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I use Photoshop CS, Print Artist, PrintShop and Print Master.

Photoshop does not have an art gallery but the other three programs do. The artwork in such galleries is the copyrighted work of other artists and may not be used commercially.

As long as you use your own photos or art and create your own layouts using frames, shapes and text (but nothing from the art gallery – not even borders), I believe you would be in compliance with the software terms of use.

For example, I take photos of people’s homes or their view of a lake or mountain and make calling cards for them. I use shapes to make frames and borders. I scan my hand drawn designs or 3D objects like buttons and pins to make embellishments.

I use art from the art gallery only when I am making items for my personal use. Personal use means to be used by me in my home or given by me as gifts. I do not sell anything that has art from the art galleries.

However I am not a copyright attorney. Be sure to consult one before you start selling your work.

If you’re wondering why I use so many different programs … I prefer Photoshop for complex graphic design work like multiple page brochures or multiple layer scrapbook layouts and PrintShop for single page designs like calling cards or greeting cards. I use Print Artist and Print Master primarily for their art galleries.

You'll find many tutorials using PrintShop and Photoshop on The Artful Crafter.

Take a look at our Computer Crafting Index or just type your area of interest into the search box to find the individual tutorials.

You'll find Greeting Card Software Copyrights - Part Two here.

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