If you create junk journals, digital kits, ephemera packs, scrapbook projects, pintables, or handmade journals for sale, understanding copyright is one of the most important things you can learn.
Many creators assume that because something is old, vintage, or available online, it is automatically free to use. Unfortunately, that is not always true.
Every day, junk journal makers ask questions such as:
Can I use vintage photographs?
Can I use old book pages?
Can I use scrapbook paper?
Can I scan a page and include it in a digital kit?
How old does something have to be before copyright expires?
Where can I find images that are safe to use?
How do I know if something is copyrighted?
The good news is that copyright doesn't have to be confusing. Once you understand a few basic principles, you can confidently create journals, digital kits, and ephemera while protecting your business and respecting the work of other creators.
What Is Copyright?
Copyright is a legal protection granted to creators of original works.
Copyright can protect:
Books
Artwork
Illustrations
Photographs
Music
Maps
Magazines
Advertisements
Scrapbook paper designs
Digital kits
Printable ephemera
Greeting cards
Digital graphics
Videos
Websites
Written content
Copyright gives creators exclusive rights to:
Reproduce their work
Distribute their work
Sell their work
Display their work publicly
Create derivative works
Unless permission is granted, others generally cannot reproduce, distribute, or sell that work while copyright protection remains active.
The History of Copyright
The first United States Copyright Act was passed in 1790.
At that time, copyright protection lasted only 14 years, with the option to renew for another 14 years. The maximum protection period was 28 years.
As technology evolved and creative industries expanded, copyright laws changed significantly. Publishing, photography, music, film, and digital media all contributed to the expansion of copyright protection.
Today, copyright protection lasts much longer than it did when the law was first created.
How Long Does Copyright Last?
Current U.S. copyright law generally provides:
Individual Creators
For most modern works created by individuals, copyright lasts:
The creator's lifetime plus 70 years.
This means copyright can continue long after the creator has passed away.
Corporate and Commercial Works
Many books, magazines, advertisements, and commercial publications fall into this category.
Copyright protection may last:
95 years from publication or 120 years from creation, depending on the circumstances.
Because of these lengthy terms, many works created during the twentieth century remain protected today.
Copyright Can Outlive the Creator
One of the biggest misconceptions is that copyright ends when an artist dies.
In reality, copyrights are often inherited by:
Family members
Estates
Foundations
Publishers
Businesses
A creator may have passed away decades ago while their work remains fully protected by copyright.
What Is Public Domain?
The public domain consists of works that are no longer protected by copyright.
Once a work enters the public domain, anyone may generally:
✔ Use it
✔ Copy it
✔ Print it
✔ Modify it
✔ Sell it
✔ Include it in journals
✔ Include it in digital kits
without obtaining permission.
Public domain materials are among the safest resources available to junk journal creators.
However, not everything that looks old is necessarily in the public domain. Always verify the status of a specific work before using it commercially.
How Do I Know If Something Is Public Domain?
A simple rule for U.S. creators is that many older works have entered the public domain, but the exact cutoff year changes over time.
Ask yourself:
When was the work published?
Who created it?
When did the creator die?
Is it a government publication?
Does the source identify it as public domain?
Has copyright expired?
If you're unsure, research the specific item before using it commercially.
Copyright vs. Trademark
Many creators confuse copyright and trademark protection.
Although they are related, they protect different things.
Copyright Protects
Artwork
Illustrations
Photographs
Books
Music
Digital papers
Printable ephemera
Graphic designs
Trademark Protects
Company names
Brand names
Logos
Product names
Slogans
Examples include:
Disney
Coca-Cola
Starbucks
NFL
Harley-Davidson
Even if an image appears old, the use of protected logos, characters, or brand names can still create trademark concerns.
What Materials Are Copyrighted?
One of the biggest misconceptions among crafters is that only books and photographs are protected.
In reality, copyright may apply to:
Scrapbook paper collections
Digital paper packs
Printable ephemera
Digital junk journal kits
Clip art
Greeting cards
Wrapping paper
Coloring books
Stickers
SVG files
Planner pages
Rubber stamp artwork
Magazine images
Advertisements
Logos
Brand graphics
Social media graphics
Simply purchasing an item does not automatically grant permission to reproduce, digitize, or resell it.
Scrapbook Paper and Copyright
This is one of the most common questions among junk journal makers.
Let's say you purchase a scrapbook paper pad from a craft store.
Generally Allowed
✔ Using the actual paper in handmade journals
✔ Cutting it into tags
✔ Using it in collages
✔ Including it in physical crafts
Generally Not Allowed
✘ Scanning the paper
✘ Making digital copies
✘ Selling printable versions
✘ Including scans in digital kits
Always review the manufacturer's Angel Policy or licensing terms before using commercial scrapbook products in items intended for sale.
Can I Use Vintage Book Pages?
Many junk journal artists use original vintage book pages in handmade journals.
Using an actual page from an old book in a one-of-a-kind journal is very different from scanning that page and selling digital copies.
Before reproducing any vintage material, verify its copyright status.
Can I Use Old Photographs?
Many people assume that if a photograph looks old, it must be free to use.
Unfortunately, that is not always true.
Some old photographs remain copyrighted while others have entered the public domain.
The safest option is obtaining images from trusted public domain collections that clearly identify rights information.
Using Original Materials vs. Reproducing Materials
One of the easiest ways to understand copyright is to ask:
Am I using the original item, or am I reproducing it?
Examples of using original materials:
Original vintage book pages
Original maps
Original receipts
Original letters
Original sheet music
Examples of reproduction:
Scanning
Photocopying
Digitizing
Creating pintables
Selling reproductions
Most copyright issues arise when copyrighted materials are reproduced rather than simply used in their original form.
Copyright vs. Commercial Use
One of the biggest misunderstandings among creators is assuming that because something can be downloaded, it can also be sold.
That is not always true.
Some resources allow:
✔ Personal use
But prohibit:
✘ Commercial use
✘ Redistribution
✘ Inclusion in digital kits
✘ Print-on-demand products
Always read the license carefully before using any digital resource.
Licensing, Permissions, and Digital Content: What Every Creator Needs to Know
Understanding Creative Commons Licenses
Many online resources use Creative Commons licenses instead of public domain status.
CC0
Generally allows:
✔ Commercial use
✔ Modification
✔ Distribution
CC-BY
Requires attribution to the creator.
CC-BY-SA
Requires attribution and sharing under the same license.
CC-BY-NC
Non-commercial use only.
CC-BY-ND
No derivatives allowed.
Always verify the specific license before using an image commercially.
What Are Angel Policies?
Some companies publish Angel Policies that explain how their products may be used.
Angel Policies often apply to:
Scrapbook paper
Rubber stamps
SVG files
Craft supplies
Digital artwork
These policies may specify whether you can:
✔ Sell handmade items
✔ Teach classes using products
✔ Use designs commercially
✘ Reproduce artwork
✘ Sell digital copies
Always review the company's policy before using their products in items for sale.
AI-Generated Images
Artificial intelligence has become a popular tool for junk journal creators.
Before selling AI-generated artwork, ask:
Does the platform allow commercial use?
Are you complying with the platform's terms?
Did you create the image yourself?
Are you avoiding copyrighted characters and trademarks?
When used properly, AI can be a valuable source of original commercial-use artwork.
Digital Kits Require Extra Caution
Digital products can be reproduced infinitely, making copyright concerns more significant.
Avoid:
✘ Scanning copyrighted books
✘ Scanning scrapbook paper
✘ Copying Pinterest images
✘ Using Google Images without permission
✘ Reproducing modern artwork
Instead use:
✔ Public domain resources
✔ Licensed graphics
✔ Commercial-use graphics
✔ Your own artwork
✔ Your own photographs
✔ Properly licensed AI-generated artwork
The Copyright Questions Every Creator Should Ask
Before using any image, graphic, page, or design, ask yourself:
Did I Create It?
If yes, you generally own the copyright.
Is It Public Domain?
If yes, it is generally safe to use.
Do I Have a Commercial License?
If yes, carefully review the license terms.
Can I Identify the Creator?
If yes and permission has not been granted, assume it is copyrighted.
Did I Find It on Pinterest?
Assume it is copyrighted until proven otherwise.
Did I Find It on Google?
Finding it through Google does not grant permission to use it.
Is Someone Else Selling It?
If yes, it is likely copyrighted.
Does It Look Modern?
If yes, assume it is protected.
Am I Scanning It?
If yes, ask:
"Do I have permission to reproduce this?"
If not, do not scan it for resale.
Five Major Red Flags
Research further if:
🚩 You found it on Pinterest
🚩 You found it on Google Images
🚩 You found it on Etsy
🚩 It contains a logo
🚩 It contains a trademark
🚩 You cannot determine the creator
🚩 You cannot find licensing information
🚩 It appears to be modern artwork
🚩 You cannot verify public domain status
🚩 It comes from a digital kit
Where Can I Find Public Domain Images?
Library of Congress
https://www.loc.gov/collections/
Excellent for historical photographs, maps, postcards, documents, and advertisements.
Smithsonian Open Access
Excellent for artwork, historical objects, illustrations, and photographs.
New York Public Library Digital Collections
https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/
Excellent for vintage photographs, decorative arts, ephemera, and fashion plates.
Internet Archive
Excellent for antique books, catalogs, magazines, and illustrations.
Project Gutenberg
Excellent for engravings, antique book illustrations, and botanical prints.
Wikimedia Commons
Always verify the license on each image.
Biodiversity Heritage Library
https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org
Excellent for botanical illustrations, birds, butterflies, and natural history images.
Rawpixel Public Domain Archive
https://www.rawpixel.com/category/53/public-domain
Excellent for antique illustrations and vintage graphics.
National Gallery of Art
https://www.nga.gov/open-access-images.html
High-quality artwork available for reuse.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search
Historical artwork and decorative arts.
Special Copyright Situations Explained
Government Images
Many works created by U.S. federal government employees as part of their official duties are automatically public domain.
Examples include:
Historical photographs
Maps
Reports
Government publications
These can be excellent resources for junk journal creators.
International Copyright
Copyright laws vary around the world.
While this article focuses primarily on United States copyright law, other countries may have different copyright terms and requirements.
Always research the laws that apply to your location and intended audience.
The Fair Use Myth
Many creators believe:
❌ "I only used part of it."
❌ "I changed it."
❌ "I gave credit."
❌ "I'm not making much money."
None of these automatically qualify as fair use.
Fair use is a complex legal concept evaluated on a case-by-case basis and should not be relied upon as blanket permission to use copyrighted materials.
Etsy-Specific Copyright Issues
Many Etsy sellers unintentionally violate copyright rules.
Common mistakes include:
Scanning vintage book pages
Using Pinterest images
Downloading images from Google
Using purchased digital kits beyond license limits
Selling copyrighted pintables
Etsy may remove listings that violate copyright policies.
The Ultimate Copyright Decision Tree
Did I create it?
→ YES: Usually safe to use.
→ NO: Continue.
Is it public domain?
→ YES: Usually safe to use.
→ NO: Continue.
Do I have a commercial license?
→ YES: Follow the license terms carefully.
→ NO: Continue.
Can I verify permission?
→ YES: Follow the permission granted.
→ NO: Stop and research before using it.
Best Practices for Junk Journal Sellers
✔ Research image sources carefully✔ Save records of where images were obtained
✔ Keep copies of licenses
✔ Use trusted public domain collections
✔ Create original artwork whenever possible
✔ Read licensing agreements completely
✔ Respect creators and copyright laws
✔ Verify rights before reproducing materials
Final Thoughts
One of the greatest joys of junk journaling is preserving pieces of history and transforming them into beautiful works of art.
Fortunately, there are millions of public domain photographs, illustrations, postcards, maps, books, and documents available for creators to use legally.
The key is learning the difference between using original materials and reproducing copyrighted works.
When you develop the habit of researching sources, checking licenses, and verifying public domain status, you can create with confidence while protecting both your business and the creators whose work inspires us.
Remember:
Just because something is old does not mean it is public domain.
Just because something is online does not mean it is free to use.
When in doubt, research first and create second.
Additional Copyright and Public Domain Resources
If you'd like to learn more about copyright, licensing, public domain materials, and intellectual property, these trusted resources are excellent places to start.
Copyright and Licensing
U.S. Copyright Office
https://www.copyright.gov
The official source for U.S. copyright law, registrations, public records, and educational materials.
Copyright Basics Guide
https://www.copyright.gov/circs/circ01.pdf
A beginner-friendly overview of copyright directly from the U.S. Copyright Office.
Creative Commons
https://creativecommons.org
Learn about Creative Commons licenses and how they affect the use of images, artwork, and digital content.
Creative Commons License Chooser
https://creativecommons.org/choose
A helpful tool for understanding license permissions and restrictions.
Public Domain and Historical Collections
Library of Congress Digital Collections
https://www.loc.gov/collections/
Historical photographs, maps, postcards, advertisements, manuscripts, and more.
Smithsonian Open Access
https://www.si.edu/openaccess
Millions of museum images and historical resources available for reuse.
New York Public Library Digital Collections
https://digitalcollections.nypl.org
Historic photographs, fashion plates, decorative arts, and ephemera.
Internet Archive
https://archive.org
Public domain books, magazines, catalogs, illustrations, and historical documents.
Project Gutenberg
https://www.gutenberg.org
Thousands of public domain books containing illustrations, engravings, and vintage artwork.
Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org
Millions of images and graphics with licensing information available for review.
Biodiversity Heritage Library
https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org
Botanical illustrations, birds, butterflies, natural history prints, and scientific artwork.
Rawpixel Public Domain Collection
https://www.rawpixel.com/category/53/public-domain
Curated public domain artwork, illustrations, and vintage graphics.
National Gallery of Art Open Access
https://www.nga.gov/open-access-images.html
High-resolution artwork available for reuse.
Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access Collection
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search
Historic artwork, decorative arts, textiles, and antique designs.
Government Resources
National Archives
https://www.archives.gov
Historical records, photographs, documents, and government-created materials.
NASA Image Library
https://images.nasa.gov
Space photography, scientific imagery, and educational resources.
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Images
https://www.usgs.gov/media/images
Maps, nature photography, geological resources, and historical imagery.
Resources for Etsy Sellers
Etsy Intellectual Property Policy
https://www.etsy.com/legal/ip
Learn how Etsy handles copyright, trademark, and intellectual property claims.
Etsy Seller Handbook
https://www.etsy.com/seller-handbook
Business guidance, best practices, and policy information for Etsy sellers.
Tip: Even when using images from trusted public domain collections, always read the rights statement attached to the specific image or document. Copyright status can vary depending on the item, country of origin, publication history, and licensing terms.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Copyright laws vary by country and individual circumstances.
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