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What is Intellectual Property? Copyright and Patent Law Defined Simply and Explained
By Melog Knaj
Intellectual property is the non-tangible ideas and creations made by humans, like art, music, books and inventions. The idea of intellectual property is to give exclusive rights and control to those that create their work, so that they have a reason to put in the initial effort and money to create it. There are two main kinds of intellectual property, copyright and patents. Copyright protects works that are meant to be reproduced over and over for consumer use, like music or books. Patents are meant to protect the intellectual method of creating a product, not the actual work that is made, for example the way an industrial company processes a raw material.
In both cases the rights owner has a total monopoly of the intellectual property until their rights run out, 20 years for patents and 70 years after the creator's death for copyright. It is also important to note that copyright law is very different from physical property laws. For example if I purchase a physical item like a stuffed animal I am free to modify or do whatever I please with that toy. If I purchase intellectual property like software though, copyright prevents me from modifying or doing whatever I please with the software.
Intellectual property is also unique because it can be reproduced at little to no cost thanks to new printing and computing technologies, unlike goods grounded in the physical world. These differences between intellectual and physical property raise new challenges and questions on how information is used and valued by society.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melog_Knaj
http://EzineArticles.com/?What-is-Intellectual-Property?-Copyright-and-Patent-Law-Defined-Simply-and-Explained&id=1505618
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Crochet Storage Tips
By Joanne Jones
Having the proper storage for your crochet supplies is very important. Not only will it protect your supplies from becoming damaged, but it will also make your crocheting projects easier. When it comes to finding the right storage solutions that work for you, take some time to examine all your options. Look at options that are easy to use and easy to find. Here are some storage ideas that work for me and that will work for you as well.
When people think of storage solutions, they often assume that the solutions are only for supplies you aren't currently using. However, storage solutions can also be used for your works in progress. For example, Tupperware containers can be used to hold yarn that you are currently working with, so that the yarn doesn't become tangled or dirty. Start by selecting a Tupperware container that has a lid that comes off. This will allow you to put the yarn in the container very easily. Then, put the lid back on the container and pull the strand of yarn through a tab opening on the lid. The yarn comes out very easily and you won't have to worry about it falling on the floor anymore.
Avoid putting yarn in storage containers, such as tote bags, that have Velcro tabs on them. When you pull out your yarn, it will most likely brush against the Velcro tab and become snagged and distorted. The yarn will then be ruined and you won't be able to use it. The only time that you can use storage containers with Velcro would be if the yarn were kept in a separate bag, plastic or fabric, so that there is no chance of the yarn touching the Velcro tabs.
Be creative and imaginative when looking for storage solutions. Storage solutions that are created specifically for crocheting or crafting tend to be more expensive than solutions that are created as general storage. For example, use photo boxes to store hooks, needles and scissors. Another example is to use a pencil holder that has been divided into several sections. Each section can then be used to hold crochet hooks of the same size.
Tote bags with multiple compartments are a terrific way to stay organized, since each compartment can hold different items. If you don't have a tote bag, one alternative is to use cosmetic bags of various sizes. Select one very large cosmetic bag to hold several smaller bags. The smaller bags will act like the compartments of the tote bag, with each one holding a different item, such as hooks or sewing supplies.
Whether you are using a tote bag or several cosmetic bags, both storage solutions have several advantages. The main advantage is that all of your supplies are kept together in one place, making them quick and easy to find. Another advantage is that your supplies are now portable for when you want to travel somewhere. Instead of taking a lot of time to gather everything together, all you have to do is grab the bags and go. A third advantage is that if you use a tote bag for your current project, then supplies won't get lost or misplaced.
I hope you have found these tips useful. Please visit Beautiful Creations to see a variety of storage solutions that will protect your precious crochet supplies and make it easy for you to take your latest crochet project with you, no matter where you are going.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joanne_Jones
http://EzineArticles.com/?Crochet-Storage-Tips&id=2246057
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By: Charles Cox
Today, there are countless types of crochet thread. The permutations are endless, and each type brings a new and interesting variation. So wide is the choice that it has become quite difficult to decide which is likely to be the best fabric for a particular purpose as many people who are into crochet making probably have no idea what many of these threads are made from.
As a beginner, it's hard to tell from the appearance or the texture of the material. Here are some tips that will assist you in identifying the best kind of thread for your project:
Author Resource:-> C.S.Cox published the acclaimed instructional book, "Crocheting Made Simple" which has taught numerous people how to crochet. Find out how to sign up for the FREE Crocheting Made Simple Newsletter at http://www.crochetmadesimple.com
Article From New Ezine Articles
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Crochet Stitches - The Linguistics of Crochet
By Jessica Harrison
Crochet stitches are the linguistics of crochet. They are the very essence of the crochet craft and as such are deservedly got their own special "abbreviations" and quirks.
Purpose of Crochet stitches
Crochet stitches and crochet patterns are the blueprint to any crochet project. Just like sewing patterns and instructions are to a seamstress. You need to think of crochet stitches and patterns as you would think about ingredients and recipes.
Like a good recipes, good crochet patterns tell you what materials and crochet stitches you are going to need to complete the crochet project. The just like a good recipe the crochet pattern will tell you in a step by step pattern which type and how many crochet stitches are needed.
How a typical crochet pattern looks
This is an extract of what a basic crochet pattern looks and how the stitches are described.
You will need
Double knitting yarn / 4 mm Crochet hook
Stitches used
Chain ch / Slip stitch sl st / double crochet dc (UK) Single crochet sc (USA)
Starting at the top (Head)
Start with a slip knot on your hook
Make 4 ch and slip stitch into the first chain to form a circle
1. Make 1 chain and work 10 dc into the ring ending with a slip stitch into the first stitch.
2. Make 1 chain and then increase by working (1dc into the first &2dc into the next stitch) repeat this all round finishing with a slip stitch into the first stitch.
Did you notice the ch and dc these are the crochet stitch abbreviations. Saves repeating it longhand in the pattern; especially if it is a hand written pattern.
The crochet stitches abbreviations
More Abbreviations
Crochet instructions are also abbreviated ... just to make life interesting
So there you have it ... crochet stitches are the linguistics of the crochet craft. One little twist there is a difference in the crochet stitches names in America and Britain ... what a surprise.
For the next installment of Crochet Stitches visit http://www.CraftMastery.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jessica_Harrison
http://EzineArticles.com/?Crochet-Stitches---The-Linguistics-of-Crochet&id=776554
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10 Gift Ideas For Crochet Lovers
By Lesley Dietschy
Being a crochet lover for both a hobby and a business, I have tried many crochet gadgets, books, patterns, and anything else associated with crochet.
My friends and family occasionally ask me what I want for Christmas or my birthday and I try to think of a new crochet gadget or a new crochet book that I would love to have. For the people that do not crochet, they have no idea what type of gift to buy for the person who loves to crochet. So, I put together a brief list of some of my favorite things related to crochet.
1. Storage Containers: If the person you are purchasing a gift for is anything like me, they have yarn overflowing all the containers in their house. Many of us crocheters can't walk into any type of craft store without browsing the yarn section. This means extra yarn which means we need extra storage. Good storage containers are wicker baskets lined with fabric, large plastic tubs, roomy totes, and floor caddies. There are floor caddies designed especially for yarn and accessories that can be found at craft stores and online at Herrschners.com.
2. Yarn: What crochet lover is not obsessed with yarn? There isn't a yarn made that I wouldn't love to have. Yarn comes in any color and texture imaginable. Yarn type examples are worsted weight, cotton, sport weight, baby yarn, sock yarn, afghan yarn, bulky or thick yarn, variegated yarn, etc. Find out what type of yarn is their favorite and head off to your local craft store.
3. Light Up Crochet Hooks: These hooks are really good to use for the crochet enthusiast that needs help seeing their stitches and when working with dark colored yarns. Light Up Crochet Hooks can be found in the bigger craft stores and online for about $7.95 each or $60.00 for a complete set.
4. Crochet Cushions: These are little cushions that slip on crochet hooks to help eliminate finger pain associated with using crochet hooks.
5. New Crochet Hook Case: Notice I added the word "new" to this one. My crochet hook case looks like my neighbor's dog, my cat and my 2 kids all played tug-of-war with it! For some reason, it is the one thing that I never purchase for myself. So, if your favorite crocheter's hook case has seen better days, buy them a new one!
6. Thera Glove: This glove is made of spandex and nylon and supports the hand and wrist helping to control soreness and fatigue associated with repetitious crocheting. They come in fun designs and cost about $20.00 a pair.
7. Crochet Stitch Books: I love looking at crochet stitch books. My favorite stitch book is titled "The Complete Book of Crochet Stitch Designs". This book contains 500 stitch patterns that include colored diagrams and pictures. This is a wonderful reference book for the beginner and the expert crocheter! There are more crochet stitch books available in craft stores, book stores, and online at Amazon.com.
8. Crochet Stitch Calendar: My favorite crochet calendar is called "365 Crochet Stitches a Year". It is a perpetual calendar that has beautiful stitch patterns and colored pictures. This calendar can be purchased at places like Barnes & Noble or online at Amazon.com
9. Crochet Patterns: This one, I highly recommend, because I am a crochet pattern designer! There are many talented crochet pattern designers in the world today. In your local craft store, you can purchase crochet pattern booklets and books. You can purchase crochet patterns online at eBay, Etsy, LuLu and designers' websites. Simply search on the internet for "crochet patterns" and you will have many to choose from.
10. Gift Card to Favorite Yarn or Craft Store: This might be obvious to many of you, but any crafter loves a gift card to their favorite craft store!
I hope I have helped you come up with an idea or two on what to buy the crochet lover in your life. If you are wondering where to purchase any of the items above, try shopping at your local craft store, Hobby Lobby, JoAnn Fabrics, Herrschners.com and AnniesAttic.com.
Lesley Dietschy is a crochet pattern designer and the founder of http://www.HomeDecorExchange.com - Visit the Home Decor Exchange website for all of your home decorating needs.
To view her crochet patterns visit: http://www.eCrochetPatterns.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lesley_Dietschy
http://EzineArticles.com/?10-Gift-Ideas-For-Crochet-Lovers&id=1562420
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Getting Started With Crocheting and Knitting
By Helen Reimer
Crocheting and knitting are one of the best stress relievers out there. They help your body to relax while taking your mind away from the everyday hardships of life, to a whole new world of knitting or crocheting. Once a project is completed it gives the crafter a sense of fulfillment.
However, if you're just starting your adventures, you might find it rather tedious and stressful. It takes a lot of patience and practice, but remember...practice makes perfect! Once you have the hang of it, and have mastered the basics, you'll love it so much you'll never want to put it down.
To avoid some of this stress you'll want to start off with very small and simple projects. Also you'll want to use a plain worsted weight yarn-not the fancy boucle, eyelash or any other yarn that's difficult to work with.
There are many different hook and needle sizes which you can use; I recommend you use at least a 5.00mm if you're just learning; anything smaller than that will only add to your frustration.
I would recommend you start off making simple scrubbies or dishcloths. These projects are so small and give you lots of practice at starting and finishing off. You'll see your improvements from project to project whereas if you work on a large project, you see your improvements towards the end. This can be very discouraging, because it tends to makes you want to go back and redo the whole thing, but at the same time that's the last thing you want, you just want to get on with your next project.
So you see how starting with small projects makes for a great way to learn how to crochet or knit. Not only that, your stitches don't have to be perfect, because you'll only use them to wash your dirty dishes, and trust me these dish-cloths work like magic whether the stitches are even or not.
When making dish-cloth you should use 100% Cotton yarn, it's very easy to work with and perfect for dishcloths and scrubbies. It's amazing how this yarn when knitted or crocheted can act as a scrubber.
The best way to learn is to have someone teach you, but unfortunately not all of us know someone who possesses these skills. So thanks to the internet, today there are many free article and video tutorials online which will teach you step by step, from start to finish, how to knit or crochet.
You can shop online for all your supplies needed, hooks and needles, yarn and pattern books. Shopping online might cost you shipping, but you'll have a much bigger selection to choose from. There are also sites where you can download all kinds of free patterns.
If you don't know of any sites that offer free patterns, crochet and knitting supplies, visit my blog and look for the entry "Crochet and Knitting Supplies Online".
Helen Reimer
Avid crocheter and pattern designer
http://freecrochetpatterns.ruqqa.com
http://rhelenashobbies.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Helen_Reimer
http://EzineArticles.com/?Getting-Started-With-Crocheting-and-Knitting&id=1420101
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Free Crochet Patterns
By Barbara Miller
Crocheting is more than just a mechanical activity. Crochet is a craft that involves a great deal of talent. It allows a person to create a handmade item that will give provide a great deal of pride and a sense of accomplishment. To be able to crochet, one needs to have time, patience and the ability to perform delicate, controlled movements.
Technically, crocheting involves a few tools, inexpensive materials and a pattern. Crochet patterns can range from the simple and traditional, to the intricate and detailed. There are many crochet patterns available on the market, and many free crochet patterns to be found on the Internet.
History of Crochet
The word crochet is adapted from the French word 'croche' which means 'to hook.' In the early 16th century, an individual who was talented in the art of crochet was considered to be a well-bred person of high society. Crocheting was very limited to wealthy women, while those with limited financial capabilities had to be content with knitting. In the 1840s, crochet enjoyed a popularity explosion. Since then, the skill has been passed within families from generation to generation. Traditionally, patterns were merely sketched as a picture, and the crafter was left to work out the details. In some cases, a brief explanation would be provided to help the artist work through the complicated sections of the piece.
Getting Started
The basic materials of crochet include a crochet hook, some yarn and a pattern. Beginners should try to find instructions on how to create basic stitches. It is also helpful to get familiar with pattern legends. These legends and symbols tend to be universal for all crochet patterns. Once you've learned the basic stitches and understand the patterns, you will be ready to attempt to crochet using a pattern. If you are able to learn through visuals, you may be able to teach yourself to crochet by following the explanations and diagrams in an instructional guide.
Creating a Masterpiece
After you've learned the basics of crochet, you will be ready to get started on your masterpiece. It's important to remember that crochet is more than just twisting of yarn and manipulation with a hook. Crocheting is an art that must be taken seriously. Put thoughts and feelings into your work, even if it is your first piece. Aim to do the best job you can, and you will have a finished piece that you'll be proud to show off to your friends and family.
Think about what you'd like your masterpiece to be. It can be something you wear, like a hat or slippers, or it can be a display piece like a table runner or doily. The piece that you choose will determine the supplies you'll need to buy. Check your pattern to know the size of hook, and the weight and type of yarn that's best suited to your project. For example, Irish crochet is known for intricate patterns and fine details. The distinguished patterns of Irish crochet can only be created using the finest threads and smallest hooks. Irish crochet patterns often feature motifs of flowers or leaves.
Most modern crafters find it more practical to use soft yarns for making display pieces, home furnishings and clothing. These patterns will often indicate the hook size and suggest yarns to work with. Simply follow the instructions for help in choosing your materials.
Choose Your Pattern
Once you've become comfortable with crocheting, you'll quickly move from one project to the next. The pride and satisfaction you'll get from finishing a piece will make you want to quickly begin another. Your project options are limitless, and soon you'll be crafting items for yourself and as gifts for your friends. Baby bibs and booties, sweaters, socks, shawls and ponchos, hats and cozy blankets are all popular project choices. All you need to create a wonderful crocheted item is the right pattern.
Without question, the pattern is very important in crocheting. As your crochet skills progress, you'll find it easy to create your own patterns for simple projects like doilies or tablecloths. Other designs, however, require specific stitches, calculated counts and certain hooks and yarns. Again, a good pattern will provide instructions, clear legends and material suggestions.
Crochet Patterns Online
Patterns for virtually every type of crochet project can be easily found on the Internet. You no longer need to travel from craft store to craft store, our scour books and magazines. A simple online search will help you find the perfect crochet pattern. There are websites available that showcase all sorts of patterns. Many retailers offer patterns available for sale, along with yarn, hooks and needles.
But, why pay for the patterns when you can get free crochet patterns on the Internet? Many websites free online patterns. Simply type 'free crochet patterns' into your search engine and you can easily find your way to a site that has just what you're looking for. Crafters who simply love to share their own unique patterns host most of these websites. The website hosts are usually happy to allow people to download the patterns for their personal use.
While online, search for a crochet discussion forum. This is a great way for crafters of all skill levels to learn new tips, and it can also be a valuable source of free crochet patterns. Forums involve crafters from all over the world, making them excellent resources for truly unique designs.
Crochet just might be the perfect craft. It is fun, rewarding and inexpensive--especially if you take advantage of the supply of free crochet patterns that is available to you.
About the Author: Barbara Miller enjoys writing for several well-known web sites, on travel and recreation and hobbies and recreation issues.
Source: Articles 3000
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Experience the Excitement of Modular Crochet
By Bella Scharf
Modular crochet, better known as "THE GRANNY SQUARE TECHNIQUE", is as popular as ever. In fact, the granny square pattern has been around for so many years and yet it's never gone out of style. It's a classic.
Crocheting modules in one specific pattern and then sewing them all together to form a larger piece of fabric - like an afghan - is a very practical method of crochet. The modules are portable and the project can be worked on anywhere. There's no need to carry around the entire project, just a hook and enough yarn to make a module or two at a time. Plus, it's easier to learn one particular crochet pattern and keep repeating it as many times as needed.
From the design point of view, multiple modules assembled together results in a very striking overall pattern. Color choice is key to creating an exciting modular crochet finished product. While bright color yarns are often used, any of the modular crochet patterns can look stunning when worked in shades of neutrals or earth tones - like beiges, greys, browns - to achieve an elegant, eclectic look that blends well with sofas and other furnishing colors popular today. It's also possible to crochet the very same patterns in baby colors and in much finer yarn, like sport-weight or baby-weight, to create beautiful and unusual baby gifts.
The square referred to as " the granny square" is made up of "rounds" , with each round usually done in a different color yarn. A very simple stitch pattern is used, made up of 3-stitch units. When we refer to modular crochet, however, we also mean a great assortment of eye-catching crochet patterns, some having flowers in the centers, some with very intricate multi-dimensional stitches, like the "popcorn", the "cluster" and the "puff" stitch, or even lacy textures. Some modules are not square at all, but triangular, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, or round. Strips crocheted separately and then sewn together into afghans and throws can also be considered modular crochet.
There is a huge variety of modular crochet patterns in existence today, and many books and Internet sites offer instructions. Just enter "granny square" or "patchwork crochet" in an Internet search engine. It's even more exciting to request an "Image" search within "Google" and view the beautiful, colorful, and inspiring photos of completed projects done in this technique.
To guarantee success with this crochet technique, it's a good idea to learn modular crochet patterns visually - through illustrations, photos, or videos. This is important because traditional crochet instructions are often hard to follow, since they are written in an abbreviated "crochet shorthand". Illustrated crochet patterns are definitely great, especially for beginners. Intermediate and experienced crocheters are also helped by step by step stitch diagrams. Complicated stitches are much easier to learn that way.
The technique of modular crocheting has endless possibilities. It can be used for making afghans, baby blankets, baby outfits, scarves, hats, bags, and countless other wearables and home accessories. It's an exciting crochet method that provides many opportunities for creativity, relaxation, and personal satisfaction.
Author of this article - Bella Scharf - is the creator of the crochet website at http://www.PatchworkCrochet.com/
The site offers a collection of fully illustrated crochet patterns. Bella Scharf was design director at a major yarn company for many years, and has authored two craft books. The first - Illustrated Patchwork Crochet - was a best-seller, with over 150,000 copies sold. It was also a Literary Guild Alternate, and was featured by Doubleday Book Club.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bella_Scharf
http://EzineArticles.com/?Experience-the-Excitement-of-Modular-Crochet&id=1478754
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