Wow, you’ve got a great sticker idea! It’s always exciting to come up with something original and creative, but the question is, how do you protect it? Many people are hesitant to share their ideas for fear of them being stolen, but in most cases, there’s no need to worry. Let’s explore some ways to safeguard your great sticker idea and make it a reality.
First things first, did you know that the moment you create your original graphics or phrases, they are covered by a copyright?
You don’t even have to register them to protect your intellectual property. However, if you think you might need to take legal action in the future, registering with the Library of Congress is a good idea, and it only costs about $30. To discourage copying, adding the “C” symbol to your original material is always a good idea. Also, do your research and ensure that your idea does not infringe on someone else’s.
If your sticker idea includes an original graphic, logo, or phrase that is essential to your business, you may need trademark protection. The US Patent and Trademark Office website is a great resource for information, forms, and answers to your questions about copyrights and trademarks.
Selling your sticker ideas can be challenging. If you’re looking to sell your products to a company, targeting those interested in your products is best. However, most companies have plenty of their own ideas, so it’s often more profitable to create and sell them yourself. You can sell your stickers online or off-line through retailers. If you choose the latter, consider finding a sales rep who is already selling to the stores you want to target. Sales reps cover a lot of ground and are well-connected with other rep networks. They usually get a percentage of their sales, and retailers generally like having a 100% markup.
Remember, the difficult part is not coming up with a great idea but executing it, distributing it, and profiting from it. Focus on being the best tailor with the sharpest scissors, not the litigant who sues any tailor who deigns to use a pair of scissors. So, don’t be afraid to share your ideas, get feedback, and do your research. If an image or name is critical to success, trademark it, and be prepared to put in the work to make your sticker idea a reality.
