This post is very hard for me to write. I have received a lot of e-mails from friends of Apple Tree House asking about another doll maker...wanting to know if I had hired someone to help me, had I seen the dolls that seemed to look a lot like Apple Tree House dolls. Honestly, I didn't think too much of it at first, Waldorf dolls are all mostly made from the same, simple pattern. Then I saw a picture. Something didn't sit quite right with me. I saw the shop name and something was familiar, but still a bit different. I didn't think about it again until I got some more e-mails, then I decided to dig a bit. I am very sad to say that this doll maker bought one of my doll making kits in August, and in September started selling her own 10-11 inch Waldorf dolls. The doll making kits were always intended for one special purpose: to give a mama a chance to make a special doll for her little one using the same high quality supplies that I do, using some of my secrets to make it easier for her, so she would enjoy the process and love the results and be able to bring joy. Seeing this happen, after all of the time and work and effort I put in to putting together the "perfect" kit, completely breaks my heart. Theft of intellectual property is a big deal. If you have recently purchased a kit, please remember that this kit is for personal use only. Please also remember that all Apple Tree House Dolls will have an apple birthmark, that is how I sign them so you know it is real.
There are a lot of other lovely doll makers out there, I would never want to discourage anyone from buying any particular brand of doll. I love seeing what each doll maker brings to the table. Please support the true artists that have taken the time to develop their own patterns, looks, and methods, use the highest quality materials and craftsmanship, and have the highest ethical standards.
Individuality is Healthy.
XOXO Debra
That is sooo rude!!! I'm sorry it has happened to you Debra as you certainly didn't deserve it after your generous offer of selling your dolls as kits so Mamas can make it for their little girls!
ReplyDeleteI hope this person sees this Blog and stop what they are doing! Besides how hard can it be to come up with your own design/pattern! There are heaps on the web that is free that they could use! Hope everyone stops buying from her!
Oh My!
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry and reading this makes me sad also because the thought of someone benefiting this way from your hard works seems unfair and dishonest!
Hugs to you and your and your dolls are so beautiful and I wish I knew the right words for encouragement!
xoxo
oh Debra, I'm sooo sorry!!!!!! *sniffle* That's makes me want to cry. Booh for that.
ReplyDeleteThats sickening! Makes me upset that someone would act like a fan of ur work just to steal it for her own ideas! And to think I could have gotten her kit and been able to make MY dd a special doll for Chrismas that her mommy made for her..but its ok bc im a TRU ATH fan and i'll happily wait till FEB for my doll kit! I'm boycotting this chick.. As soon as i find out who it is! lol
ReplyDeleteSHAME on YOU! (whoever u are!)
Whoever this is, Naughty,Naughty! Debra your dolls are amazing! I don't want a forgery, I want a signature doll from you and only you, not a look-a-like!
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting this,so we all know to look twice before buying a doll that is presumed yours.
All my best,
Kristina
Your dolls are adorable, Debra. Your Tender Loving Care is unmatched. ;0
ReplyDeleteSo sorry this is happening to you, Debra. Maybe next time you should add a written disclaimer that the kits have author rights nd is for personal use only. If the person has any intention on reselling dolls, then you should charge accordingly for the license. As an artist that is developing a pattern like this, you have the right to apply for copyrights.
ReplyDeleteThanks for all of the kind words! I knew this was a possiblity when I offered the kits, but I still firmly believe that most people have good intentions. Written disclaimers, licensing agreements, non-compete agreements and copywrights on artistic creations are tricky things, as is intellectual property. The basic patterns for Waldorf dolls can be easily obtained in books and on the internet. There will be many more doll makers in the future who will also use the same basic patterns and concepts. I make no specific claim to any of the basic things, just my brand and what it has come to be known for. I am more than happy to help people when asked, I only ask in return that credit is given where credit is due. I had help when I started from Amy of Dancing Rain dolls and I am a firm believer in paying it forward. I bear no ill-will, I can only hope that other doll makers choose to come up with their own looks and concepts that they can be proud of. There is plenty of room for all individuals :) XOXO
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to read this. :( Glad you are keepin' on and sad for your having been through this! (((((HUGS))))) sandi
ReplyDelete