Is embroidering logos illegal?
Mason Cooper
Published May 13, 2026
Thereof, is embroidering Nike illegal?
If you own the trademark and want to embroider or print the same on merchandise and sell it – that is absolutely legal.
Secondly, is printing a logo illegal? No, you cannot legally print up another company's logo on shirts for your personal use. Their logo is their trademark, and it might also be copyrighted. It is their intellectual property. If you wish to use it, you would need their written permission, which they are not going to give you.
Consequently, are embroidery designs copyrighted?
Yes, embroidery patterns (designs) are protected by copyright. Any piece of artwork falls under the protection of copyright, until it has outlived the time limitations of the copyright.
Can you get sued for embroidering Nike?
Yes you are able to do this although you are infringing on copyright. Having said that the chance of the licensee taking you to court and suing you is slim so go for it. You may not be making money off of it, but the people making the sweater embroidery are making money.
Related Question Answers
Can I embroider a Nike logo and sell it?
If you own the trademark and want to embroider or print the same on merchandise and sell it – that is absolutely legal.Can I use the Nike logo?
Trademarks are usually made for names, symbols, catchphrases, figures, and lyrics. For example, the Nike swoosh symbol, the phrase "Just do it" and the name Nike are trademarked. If Nike hadn't trademarked "Just do it," anyone could use the phrase in branding and advertisements.Can I sell Nike hoodies?
You cannot re brand Nike. You cannot sell Nike as your own. Not even you put a little dot somewhere. You could be accused of counterfeiting.Is Nike trademarked?
Nike and Its TrademarksNike holds several trademarks, including their famous swoosh symbol and the phrase “just do it.” Essentially, Nike has a trademark on its name, slogan, and symbol.
Can I sell embroidered logos?
Trademarks or copyright can protect logos, and both forms of intellectual property protection restrict how others may use the logo. Selling shirts with copyrighted images isn't impossible, but you should never use someone else's logos on your T-shirts or other clothing without their explicit permission.Is it legal to embroider?
Embroidery Copyright LawsAccording to the Copyright Act of 1976, it is illegal to distribute copyrighted material. This does not only apply to embroidery designs, but also to embroidery software. Once you purchase embroidery software, you also purchase the right to use the application with your hardware.