I'll start... - Page 2

[rachel]

I am also just starting out, and will be making/selling slings.....I can't afford to LLC or get insurance just yet (although after reading this, I am now realizing I probably will have to "just in case"). What if I put a disclaimer on my website and also a printed copy with the sling saying something like "We are not responsible for improper use of sling, always keep one hand on your baby and/or child.". It seems like that's what some of the other sling makers do. (Although I don't know any personally, so maybe they are LLC or insured!). So if I put a disclaimer on everything, does it help any?

[TaylorMade]

Regarding insurance - anyone can sue you for anything. So even if there are directions, disclaimers, etc. It doesn't matter. They can still sue you. Look at the fast food restaurants being sued right now.

As for copying/using other designs or patterns. I know this issue has been hashed and re-hashed regarding cloth diapers over the last several years in many different on-line forums. I am sure the same priniciples apply to slings. It usually becomes a very heated, hostile debate. Everyone will have their own opinion and take on it. That said: If you are asking if you use someone elses design if it's not patented? I am not sure. Maybe legally. If you are asking if it's ok to do it ethically? I would say IMO, no.

LeAnn

[rachel]

I realize people can still sue, I was just wondering if a disclaimer/directions help the case.

Re: Diaper/Sling pattern/design.
Just like diapers, there are only so many ways one can make a sling.

[bionicsquirrel]

Re: Diaper/Sling pattern/design.
Just like diapers, there are only so many ways one can make a sling.

I agree and I also think there are only so many ways you can make a diaper, especially something like a pocket diaper (since that has been one of the recent issues going round.)
I think that most designs are basically the same but get tweaked with material choices, sizing, price and especially who makes them. I much prefer to buy a product from someone who is nice, generous and making their product themselves then a bigger "corporation" who no longer handles their own customer service and doesn't even sew anymore.

How do you all feel about this? I mean, my product can be compared to some others, but it is still my product because I have done things to it to fit my own needs for what a sling should have. It has some differences and similarities to other products, but I at least still do all the work.

[guestmama9911]