Handmade Holiday Cards

Do i need to get permission to use an embossing stencil for handmade cards?

I bought an embossing stencil and a note came with it saying: "Designs are copyright protected and are intended for home use only. Use of designs for manufacturing or commercial purposes must have written approval from the manufacturer" I'm making wedding cards using this stencil, so do i need to get permission from the company before using it? I know making wedding cards isn't "manufaturing or commercial purpose" but thought i'd check.

Public Comments

1. If you are planning to sell them then you need permission. If you're going to give them out as your own cards then you don't.
2. It's down to whether you intend making money off the designs you have bought - if so, the owners of the design will want their slice of your profits - your intended use is entirely non profit so don't worry about it - go right ahead!
3. Your wedding cards are home use so you don't need permission for those. Generally with stencils and rubber stamps if you are making 5 or 6 to sell you don't need permission but if you are making lots to sell of one design then you would need to get permission. This is usually forthcoming. It is using their design in a manufacturing process rather than by hand that would cause concern.