If you have a customisation business, you need good designs, but you cannot use just any image from the internet. Using a design without the proper image licences can lead to legal issues.

To avoid complications, here I explain the essentials about Creative Commons (CC) licences, how to ensure an image is safe to use, and why Vexels is an ideal option for downloading designs without worries.

What are Creative Commons (CC) image licenses?

Creative Commons is a licensing system that allows creators to share their works under certain conditions. Not all CC licences permit commercial use, so it is crucial to understand them well. Here, I will explain them with clear examples:

CC BY (Attribution)

• You can use it, modify it, and sell products with the design.
• Requirement: Credit the author.
• Example: You download a CC BY design and use it on t-shirts. In the product description or on a label, you must credit the creator.

CC BY-SA (Attribution – ShareAlike)

• It can be used and sold, but if you modify it, the derivative design must have the same licence.
• Example: If you use a CC BY-SA illustration for a mug, anyone who purchases the mug could use that design on their own products.

CC BY-ND (Attribution – No Derivatives)

• You can use and sell it, but you cannot modify the original image.
• Example: You sell canvases with a CC BY-ND illustration, but without altering colours or shapes.

CC BY-NC (Attribution – Non-Commercial)

• You cannot sell products with this design.
• Example: You couldn't print it on mugs or t-shirts for sale.

CC0 (Public Domain)

• Free use without restrictions.
• Example: You can sell products with CC0 designs without any issue, without the need to credit the author.

How to know if an image is licensed and if you can use it?

Before using an image on your products, check this:

1️⃣ Check the source: Banks like Pixabay, Unsplash, and Pexels offer free images, but not all are for commercial use. In contrast, Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, or Creative Fabrica provide commercial licenses.

2️⃣ Check the image metadata: On Windows, right-click > Properties > Details. On Mac, right-click > Get Info. Some images contain copyright information in their metadata.

3️⃣ Reverse search on Google Images: Upload the image to Google Images and check its origin.

4️⃣ Use Google's advanced search: In Google Images, go to "Tools" > "Usage rights" and filter by "Creative Commons licenses" or "Commercial use".

Vexels: Designs with commercial license included

If you want ready-to-use designs without worrying about licences, Vexels is your best ally. It is a platform with thousands of illustrations, patterns, and graphics with commercial licence included. This means you can use their designs on t-shirts, mugs, stickers, and more, without worrying about copyright.

Why use Vexels?

✅ Guaranteed commercial use for every design you download with a subscription.✅ Exclusive designs for customisation.✅ Print-ready files in formats such as PNG and SVG.✅ Tools like the Mockup Generator, which allows you to preview how the design will look on different products before production.✅ Easy customisation within the platform to adapt the designs to your style.

Types of Licences at Vexels

• Merch Licence: Ideal for printing on t-shirts and physical products without legal issues.
• POD (Print-On-Demand) Licence: Perfect if you sell on Redbubble, Teespring, or Merch by Amazon.
• Standard Commercial Licence: For commercial use with no sales limit.

Example of use with Vexels:

1️⃣ Download a unicorn design with a commercial licence.2️⃣ Print it on a sheet and sell it without worries.3️⃣ Use the Mockup Generator to create sample images and promote the product before manufacturing it.4️⃣ Upload the design to your print-on-demand store and start selling without copyright issues.

🤑 BRILDOR DISCOUNT 25% EXTRA ON YOUR SUBSCRIPTION

Vexels is not a free repository, but the investment required to take advantage of everything Vexels has to offer is very low compared to the value you receive.

If you join us, you will enjoy an EXTRA 25% discount on your subscription. If you wish to take advantage of this offer on subscription plans, simply click here: vexels.com/brildor/

And that's not all; depending on your subscription level, you can request custom designs to your liking each month. Keep in mind that these designs will become part of Vexels' stock, but this service sets Vexels apart from other stock sites.

We remind you that, to maintain the legal use of Vexels images, it is essential to keep your subscription active.

If you have a customisation business or are thinking of starting one, you cannot risk using unlicensed images. Learn more about "Vexels, the solution for creating custom designs in minutes" and "How to create your own clothing brand".

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to share them with us by leaving a comment. Our team will be delighted to provide you with answers and assistance. You can also directly contact our Customer Service Department for further assistance.

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