I saw something about 10 days ago that surprised me immensely. I think one of my knitting patterns has been copied or at least “adapted” to an extent that it is literally identical. But I won’t say it’s for definite because things like this could truly happen by chance. But thinking again and again about what I saw, it is really quite hard to believe that this happened by chance because it looks exactly the same. I can see some differences but I know why these differences were made. If (that is if) this pattern which is already published, was really an adaptation of my design, it is disappointing that no credit was given to me. Actually this is the second time by different individuals that my designs as been “adapted” to an extent that it is identical. So I decided to voice about it.
I won’t go into detail about this particular case as it is by an individual and not by a large retail giant. If this happens for the second time by the same person, I will take an action. But for now, I would like to talk about my philosophy about this whole situation.
Knitting community is a great pool of people where they are all courteous and give credit to one’s design if a person adapts it – even to an extent that you cannot really see any resemblance to the original design! 
Knitters are all creative and I love being a part of this community.
Getting an inspiration from other designers, brands, etc is natural. I have my own favourite designers that I admire and I am always inspired by fabulous knitting designs that I see on Ravelry and elsewhere. If you are designing a new pattern, you may adapt a certain shape, a certain stitches on a completely different type of garment. I think that’s fine. But when it becomes, the same style of garment, the very similar detail of designs, very similar stitches on a same style garment – then that is a bit too much.
When you suspect that someone has adapted your design to an extent that it is literally identical, it is a difficult feeling. But one thing I can say is not to let this stop you. It’s a cliche to say that “imitation is the highest form of flattery”. May be it is, but you know, the bottom line is all about THE NEXT NEW DESIGNS. There is no point publishing what has been seen before.
It taks a LONG time for me to create a garment from start to finish. I go into a lot of details (scenery, photos, words, colours, texutres etc), swatches, analysing the ideal fibres. So when someone adapts my design I would expect someone to give some credit for the hard work I did.
Although I won't be able to tell you which one it is, these are some of the images I went through to design a garment.
I don't just go through inspirational images. I knit countless number of swatches. It really does take a long time, but that is the beauty of knitting - TIME.
I would like to “turn lemon into lemonade”. So next time I create my own design (which is going to be soon), I will blog about every step that takes from the beginning to the end of creating the final garment. I want to share my method of how I do it, and may be there is something that we can both learn from each other. Life goes on. I have a loving family and kitties with amazing knitting friends. All I need to concentrate is to create knitting patterns that we can all enjoy.
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You are such a lovely person you know. So very gracious. My friend who is a softie designer has had this happen to her too, and I know what you mean by “it is a difficult feeling”.
So glad it won’t stop you
Please keep your beautiful patterns coming, and oh if you’d let me, I’d love to test-knit for you!!!!!!
Hi Jenny!
thank you also for offering for test knit. I will certainly contact you in the future 
So it’s all going to be full of positive things!
Thank you so much for your lovely comment. It really made me happy
I kept thinking whether I would blog about it or not, but I am glad I did it. Things happen and the best way to deal is to be positive and rise above it. I am very sorry that it happened to your friend. I hope she has not given up.
Yes, lots more fun and great patterns are coming up
x
Kyoko
So sorry that this has happened to you Kyoko. But you are right about it all being about the next designs. People who copy will never do as well as those who are original.
Jen xx
Hello Jen!
Yes, it’s all about the originality – that makes a difference 
Thank you so much for your comment
x
Kyoko
You are a wonderful person and a very very talented knitter! Just be sure to not let other people stop you creating wonderful patterns just the way you do. It’s very sad that other people don’t have your talent and creativity to work out their own patterns, but you will always be MORE than just one step ahead from any copy cat!
Have a great week, Kyoko! *hugs*
Hey Pili!
Thank you so much for your kind comment
Yes, it’s all about passion for knitting and no one can stop me
The most difficult thing is that this may so have happened by pure, seriously pure coincidence. In my head, there are so many designs I want to create, so I am OK.
Thank you so much *hugs back*. Hope you have a good week ahead too
x
Kyoko
Well said Kyoko, you made your point very well !! Don’t forget that we live in a small world, one who just copy someone else’s work will be known sooner or later. All the best for your future designs & looking forward to trying another baking recipes from you
)
Hi Mia!
Oh yes, baking recipe are coming up. I do still make challah bread every week but I am thinking of creating new ones (currently practising on focaccia bread!)
You are absolutely right. The world is so small.
Thank you sooo much for your kind words. I feel so much more motivated and positive after reading the comments and everything is all good.
x
Kyoko
I’m so sorry this happened to you, Kyoko. You are a dear, kind girl and a talented designer. There will always be copycats (the naughtiest kind of cat), and they should be ashamed. The very least they could do would be to give credit to the original designer.
Continue on as the brave, daring designer you are and ignore the hurts that small-minded people give. You are above it.
Blessings,
Beth
Hello Beth,
Thank you So much for your kind comments. Hehe, I love the “naughtiest kind of cat” description.
After reading the everyone’s comments, I feel positive and felt inspired by everyone.
Right now, I am creating new designs and it’s been great.
Thank you so much for your support! I am all good here
x
Kyoko
Dearest Kyoko,
I know this is a little late but I just stumbled upon your work at Ravelry. I’ve purchased your Yoked Coat pattern (adorable) as well as the latest issue of Knitscene in order to have Uxbridge (love the back).
I mention this as I think I can assume that I’ve been knitting since before you were born, and looking at something, thinking ‘my, isn’t that clever’ and proceeding to duplicate it would be a very simple thing for me.
However, m’dear, you are the one who’s actually brought it to fruition, not to mention done all the maths (shudder). And please be assured that I am merely one of countless seasoned knitters who wouldn’t dream of stealing your – or any other designer’s – work.
You are valued and appreciated, and the ownership of your talent is respected. I, and those like me, look forward to seeing what’s next.
Please give yourself a cyber-hug.
Megan
Hi Megan,
Thank you so much for your kindest comment. It has nearly brought teas in my eyes, because I felt so grateful to you. Your comment has really given me the positive energy and inspiration to create more knitting patterns that people can knit for their loved ones.
Yes, the new patterns are coming up here and there!
Thank you so much and keep on knitting! “cyber-hug” back
x
Kyoko