Saturday, February 7, 2009

If you prick us, do we not bleed?

Earlier this week I was contacted via email by Craft with a request to feature my Seamless Kimono Pattern. I was honoured and, as a long term reader (and linker) or Craft, I agreed immediately. I eagerly awaited the post and was pleased as punch when it was up.

Last night I decided to read the comments on the post. I shouldn't have....

"The only differences that I can see between this knit and the baby kimono from Mason Dixon Knitting is that the Mason Dixon kimono is in garter stitch, while this one is in stockinette, and it ties at the bottom instead of using sewn-on ribbons like the Mason Dixon pattern.

It's not *quite* the same pattern, but it's certainly close enough that it shouldn't be called an original pattern. It's more like a variation"

And

"That looks remarkably like the baby kimono in Mason Dixon Knitting. I'm not a big fan of copyright infringement and suggest CRAFT check this out."

There was one comment of support, pointing out the obvious differences in construction. I am a huge fan of the Mason-Dixon One-Piece Kimono. In fact a browse through my archives will show that I have knit it twice. Suggestions that I have "ripped it off" are insulting to me and insulting to the Mason-Dixon ladies as I have not at any point had any contact from them with similar concerns. To suggest that I would change the MD pattern from garter to stockingette, call it my own design and post it on the Internet are deeply hurtful.

One problem with the Internet is that it is all to easy to post an anonymous comment about someone's integrity and walk away with little thought as to the person you are defaming. I realise the I could comment back on the Craft blog but I am loathe to look like I need to defend myself.

All that I ask folks is that next time you are about to type first and think later, remember that the person on the other end of the computer is a real person and that this real person was very upset.

15 comments:

Tracy said...

Oh Jack that is just bloody awful. Big Hug.

Sam said...

that sucks Jack, and the comments are obviously completely unfounded. I think the vast majority of crafters who've actually seen the pattern realise that apart from the 'kimono' appearance (which is NOT copyright) there are lots of differences. boo-hiss to anonymous rude commenters!

Alrischa said...

I had a look at the garter stitch one. I don't like it as much. But if yours didn't look a little similar, it wouldn't be a Kimono! People are stupid!

There are a hundred different Plain Sock patterns out there, and many have been published. No one cares. Your kimono is clearly different.

Some nasty people also have low IQs. It's an unfortunate combination. You're right, they're wrong; try not to let it bother you any more.

Rachael said...

Remember a comment is just an opinion - it doesn't make it true. And I mean FFS they are constructed totally differently yeah?

(((hugs)))

Bec said...

((hugs)) Jack - that is awful ;-(

I love the net and it's made communciation, information and entertainment so much closer but at the same time people seem to think it's ok to be rude, snarky and just generally mean.

Chelsea the Yarngeek said...

They apparently haven't knit both patterns. There are huge differences between the two and I would never have compared them. The only thing the two patterns have in common is, they are both unique patterns written by unique people that yield great results. So sorry that ignorant people ruined your day. :(

catsmum said...

if those idiots had bothered to do a raverly search they would have realised that there are many other kimono style baby tops out there ... I don't notice anyone accusing Debbie Bliss or even the great EZ of ripping off the MD ladies.
- YOUR pattern has obvious differences and YOU know it's your own, and so do we!

Vicki Suan said...

Ignore stupid people with thoughtless comments. Don't let that deter you from designing. Turn this into a positive. Your pattern has been featured in Craft magazine or -ezine. Plus, there's a lot of people in this blog community who loves you. We got your back.

sweetp said...

Aww that sucks. FWIW I get the craft blog posts on my blog reader and have never once clicked through to see the comments. Big Hugs

Tania said...

Jack, how thoughtless. I hope the groundswell of support here has made you feel better and realise that the comments and the number of people who have made your pattern with no manner of negative remark is testament to what a great and simple and appreciated little pattern you designed.

Amanda said...

Those comments were unnecessary and unkind. I hope you ignore them. We know its not so!

Anonymous said...

Jack, I hope that somehow "Craft" is made aware of your feelings on this issue, even though you have elected to be the better person and not comment on the site. I applaud you - I love your blog and I love your patterns. No simpleton is going to change our minds about your integrity, or your skills. Chin up, girl; we've got your back.

Anonymous said...

I left the first comment. I'm sorry that your feelings were hurt. That was not the intent. I am aware that designers have had designs ripped off by those who aren't ethical (and you are obviously not one of those.) After a closer look at both patterns, it's obviously very different...and a great pattern to boot. To all those who felt the need to call those of us with concerns rude, jealous, people with low IQ's, etc., shame on you. You know as much about me as I do about the designer. I voiced a concern. Someone kindly explained things clearly and I've apologized over on CRAFT as well. I'm somewhat surprised by the hypocrisy here. It was truly a misunderstanding.

Nietzsche's Girl said...

I'm so sorry. I love that kimono pattern and am making it for my new niece. She is going to love it, and doesn't care whether it resembles another kimono or not!

Thank you for posting it, and don't let the haters get you down. A kimono isn't the most varied item, and so the patterns will naturally resemble each other!

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