'Design Theft'

Alright, prepare yourself for a long rant. I just have something that's REALLY been bugging me, and I have to let it out somehow.


Design theft. Does it even exist? Is it okay to see a specific character design that you like, then use it for your own character? What if another artist's OC has the most adorable outfit, and you would like to see your character in it, so you decide to "borrow" the idea for the clothing design..? Do you think that's okay? Or how about hair, or color scheme-- Is it okay for you to take those and put them on your character?

In some cases, this all depends on just HOW MUCH "inspiration" you decide to draw from another artist's work. But as a general rule of thumb, no, it is not okay. Stealing is wrong, whether it be a little chocolate kiss out of a candy store, or an idea from another artist.

I've heard other artist's claim that although OCs are copyrighted, designs aren't. Does that mean it's okay to steal them? Heck, no! Not even! So why do they continue to do it? Because since there's no copyright on ideas then there's no "law" against it. So even though they know it's wrong, if they can get away with it they will steal designs/ideas.

Stealing anything is wrong, whether there be a law against it or not. Being inspired is one thing, but copying someone is a completely different issue. Don't get me wrong, some people are way too quick to accuse others of being copycats, but I just feel that "design theft" is getting to be way too common around here. It needs to end. People need to use their own imaginations-- Isn't that the point of making art?