11/09/2026
As an artist I struggle with wanting to expand into different versions of what I make and like to make and offer, without feeling like I've taken someone else's ideas or pulled too much inspiration from someone else. It's also unfortunately super hard to make something that's entirely new and unique in the beading world because there's already so much that has been done and been popularized!
With that being said, I will never fault someone for liking what I make and becoming inspired to make the same or really similar. I think as long as you aren't copying the design and colors exactly of someone elses art, you're coming up with your own versions and your own spins on it, and aren't trying to compete with those around you in harmful ways, that some overlap is completely understandable and alright.
I bring this up because I've noticed an increase in folks making suncatchers around me and I love it! I absolutely know that the idea of making suncatchers isn't unique to me (though I'd like to think how I came up with the idea is unique to me lol, thanks again best friend!) and I know that while every design I have made is unique and completely from my own mind, there are only so many ways you can string beads together and add prisms and make a suncatcher. The reality is that sometimes things are going to end up looking similar! And again, I'm alright with that!
I guess the only thing I would ever say is that if you're copying my design exactly, give me a shout out lol! And if I ever make something that looks like one of your designs, let me know and I'll throw you a shout out as well! I try to always go out of my way to make sure to highlight and support my fellow creators and artists, and it's that simple!
Anyways, all of this to say that sometimes I see some crazy drama in the beading community, and it makes me sad that there's so much contempt and bitterness. It also makes me nervous about branching out and trying to make new designs or items. But no matter what, you won't find that kind of drama or "gatekeeping" or anything similar here on this page or from this creator.
If you want to make and sell something that someone else made, just be sure to always make your own versions, and give credit when you can. We're all in this together ❤️❤️🙏🙏
