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knifemaker3 · August 17th, 2008

I've been trying to get ready to start a marketing campaign and wanted to know if anyond knew of the legality of just printing a sample of the potential client's logo to give them as a sample. Would I get into copyright issues as long as it is just a sample for them?

Just don't want to do this and then get sued. Anyone else do this or should I contact them to get permission to print a sample for them?

Thanks
Craig

badalou · August 17th, 2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by knifemaker3


	I've been trying to get ready to start a marketing campaign and wanted to know if anyond knew of the legality of just printing a sample of the potential client's logo to give them as a sample. Would I get into copyright issues as long as it is just a sample for them? Just don't want to do this and then get sued. Anyone else do this or should I contact them to get permission to print a sample for them? Thanks Craig

Actually I think it is a good idea. Be sure to explain that is just as a sample for them to show what you can do.

Uncle John · August 17th, 2008

I'm not a lawyer, but I play one on TV. If you make a one off to send them as a sample, I don't think the would mind, It could be costly if you don't find out if there even interested if sending to a lot of company's.
John

Jasonda · August 17th, 2008

Some companies are EXTREMELY sensitive about their logos. Even if the sample is only for them, you should get permission. Just call them up to make sure there are no misunderstandings.

sunnydayz · August 17th, 2008

I totally agree with Jasonda here, it could be risky without permission as they may wonder how many you printed. I would call and just ask them if it is ok and explain the reason you want to print a sample is so that you can send it to them to show them how great your work is. That way you dont have to wonder if it can get you into trouble.

knifemaker3 · August 17th, 2008

Thanks all!

COEDS · August 17th, 2008

I think sending a sample is a great idea, but getting permission to do so is great advice. .... JB

Solmu · August 17th, 2008

Agree with the above caution. The other thing is, you may want to pick the clients carefully. If they're large businesses (even small local franchises of large businesses) they may get their merchandise done by corporate and not be authorised to get anything produced themselves. So sending a sample in that particular case would be a waste of money.

enzogg · August 18th, 2008

This could be risky but most of all expensive! It's not easy like pen companies just sending companies pens with their name on it.

COEDS · August 18th, 2008

I think maybe sending them a invitation to get a logo sewn or designed may be the way to go. You would not be out near as much money and would have their permission if they contacted you. .... JB

knifemaker3 · August 19th, 2008

Thanks to all who have responded!

I should have mentioned that I wasn't going to just send each company a free sample. Just the ones who would at least give me an interview to showcase my products. Just didn't want to show up without samples.

I will ask before I just print. Just wondered what everyone else thought or if anyone else has done this and gotten in trouble.

Thanks again guys. Gotta love this place!!!

Craig

DREAMGLASS · August 19th, 2008

Hi Craig. I get frequently get samples from businesses with my name on it. Usually things like pens and coasters. It generally doesn't bother me. However, even though it's a totally personal perspective, I wouldn't be too happy if someone had used my logo without my permission, in whatever context. For me, that would be 'crossing over the line'.

What may be more feasible, is to send someone a printed template with an overlay of their logo on it, stating that this is what their logo could look like, on the products you could supply to them. In that context you haven't created an actual product, so potential clients are much less likely to get offended.

SunEmbroidery · August 20th, 2008

I agree about the permission part although I know embroiderers often do this without getting permission ahead of time.

Knoxinkwerx · August 22nd, 2008

Hey guys, that is a great idea. Glad I stopped in to read this thread. thanks
scottb
knoxinkwerx.com

Robin · August 22nd, 2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by COEDS


	I think maybe sending them a invitation to get a logo sewn or designed may be the way to go. You would not be out near as much money and would have their permission if they contacted you. .... JB