Building on someone else's idea, who was inspired by someone else's idea

In grade school, copying someone's test and getting caught would surely earn you an "F" and a trip to the principal's office. In the writing world, copying someone else's work (document or story) is considered plagiarism and could get you shunned, fired and possibly put in jail. On the flip side, how many painters have studied and tried to imitate the masters in an attempt to learn their technique? What about recipes? Somebody came up with it, and then we take it and make it our own. I follow the Facebook page, S**t overheard at art festivals and so many posts are laments about people wanting to "steal" the idea or the technique. It happens to me to -people at art fairs pull out their cell phones and start snapping photos of my work, others want a detailed account of how I create my product line. This, makes me happy! I know they want to try making their own. It makes me love my art form even more. We all start our journey somewhere, and generally the inspiration comes from outside ourselves.

Barbara Breier's book, It's a Wrap is every cord wrapper's ultimate guide, and starting point. I took her advice, I was inspired by her work, and then I took and made it my own. This post is anchored at the top with a photo of a neckace that I just purchased from New York fabric artist Tonya Dyce. It's my latest inspiration. Can I possibly make this technique my own? Would it fit into my product mix? I don't know the answers, but I will wear this charmer, knowing that I will get compliments; I will promote her work. I hope the day comes that I can take this techique and make it my own. By the way, I will be at Duluth's Art in Bayfront Park on Saturday and Sunday. Stop by, if you are in the area.