Skinning Corporate Logos

Just wondering what kind of permissions are required when skinning a corporate logo, if any.
5,560 views 12 replies
Reply #1 Top
permission from the Corporate that owns the logo you're skinning, would be my 1st guess.
Reply #2 Top
In what way? Windowblind, icon, wallpaper, etc.? I have done a few icons for Objectdock for 'utility' companies that people requested to use as shortcuts for bill paying. I never really gave 'permission' much thought, but haven't heard anything.

I believe, with the icons, that they will stand, unless the corporation requests they come down for whatever reason...(and as long as they aren't inflammatory towards the corporation...I think)

For some corporations where the logo itself may generate an income (like NFL logo's) you would probably need permission. I believe I saw something in the forums once about a problem with the Apple logo, but can't remeber which way the argument went.

Reply #3 Top
I was just thinking about some cursors and maybe in the future icons and a wb skin when I get enough time. (and talent)  
Reply #4 Top
There is a Zippo wb skin that is 'official' and has permissions. There is also an nVidia skin floating around with permissions, as well. I did a DeviantArt cursor using the 'Fella' mascot and had to get permission for that. I believe the college wb skins were commissioned. Sorry I can't be of more help. Probably shoulda just kept my yap shut.

Someone will come along who can be more detailed. It might help if you mentioned 'who's' logo you had in mind to use.
Reply #5 Top
All depends what u wanna do with it.
Reply #6 Top
All depends what u wanna do with it.


Don't listen to him. He's still in trouble for painting naked smurfs doing things to Snuggles the bear all over his VW microbus.
Reply #7 Top
that's pretty bad! do you have any idea of how to go about obtaining permissions? btw, how do you do that quote thing?
Reply #8 Top
oh, and I was thinking about making some Oakley stuff.
Reply #9 Top
Yes but for what? to sell? for your own personal use? to post?   
Reply #10 Top
btw, how do you do that quote thing?


Highlight the text you wish to quote, then click the quote on the right of that reply.
Reply #11 Top

There is a Zippo wb skin that is 'official' and has permissions. There is also an nVidia skin floating around with permissions, as well. I did a DeviantArt cursor using the 'Fella' mascot and had to get permission for that. I believe the college wb skins were commissioned.

Yes there are several skins/themes/etc out thre that were specifically commissioned by the Company concerned, so they naturally have permission for logo use.

Generally corporate logo use would need permission unless it could be demonstrated there was an argument for incidental [fair] use.  It's generally argued that adapting an Adobe PSP icon [for example] for use on a Dock program is 'fair use'.

Personal use is a no-brainer....it is only public distribution...use on a website...or uploading for others to use that may need prior consent...

Reply #12 Top
since I was thinking personal use then I won't worry about it, but I might want to do more in the future if I can't come up with my own ideas , then I will have to ask thanks all you guys for the explanation.