How much do you have to change an image to use it without the owner's permission?

Question

I found a really cool illustration that is apart of a larger drawing. I cut out the part that I wanted and added it to a background that I created. I tweaked the illustration that I took out, but the original artist would definitely be able to tell it was theirs. I've tried finding that original artist and asking for their permission but I haven't had any luck contacting them.

How much do I have to change of the original image to be able to use it on a tshirt or poster I try to sell?

Answer 1

The answer is don't do this. Don't. Do. This.



Do read up on copyright law in the link the first person posted. You'll find that what you have suggested violates the artist's copyright and they most likely have the right to sue you if you go forward.

Answer 2

http://www.copyright.gov.



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