Typophile

Font creation off other fonts - copyright and IP issues?

sparkie7

Just to throw this question out there. At several levels:

1. Logos/Wordmarks
Maybe I'm wrong but I'd say quite a few people would start off a logo/wordmark with an exisiting typeface and modify it. Any IP/copyright issues with this?

2. Typeface creation
Whats the position on creating a new typeface off an existing typeface. I'm sure designers/typographers have been known to start off using a basic set to get things moving quickly. I assume there are infringements in this realm. or am I wrong.

Are there typefaces that allow you to modify them without any issues?

Obviously the ideal if you were a 'pure' type designer is to design from scratch. However at the end, how does anybody know whether a typeface is a modification of an existing one (unless its blatantly obvious and hasn't been modified much) or one from scratch - unless you keep and show original hand sketches..

Would like to hear your opinions

Bert Vanderveen

It’s all in the EULA. Sorry if this an unsatisfying answer, but the restrictions for the use/adaptation of a typeface differ from foundry to foundry and from country to country.

Generally the use of a typeface in a logotype is unrestricted (but a notable exeption is House Industries, who want an extra licensing fee for the commercial use of their fonts — other foundries may have their own restrictions).

Creating a new typeface of an existing one? In the US it is kinda allowed if you do NOT use the code, but instead start with a print and work from there. In Europe it depends upon the degree of similarity. The end product must be a new creation.

All this is in general terms. Be sure to read the EULA’s...

. . .
Bert Vanderveen BNO

Frode Bo Helland

Some EULA’s also allow you to modify a typeface for your own use, but does not allow you to sell or give it away.

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