< All Topics
Print

Understanding Personal vs. Commercial Licenses.

Understanding Personal vs. Commercial Licenses

Many digital products on Lovecraftify (such as patterns, SVGs, embroidery files, and printable designs) are sold with different license types. Understanding the difference between a Personal License and a Commercial License helps you use your purchase correctly and avoid license violations.

Quick takeaway: Personal licenses are for personal use only. Commercial licenses allow you to sell finished products made from the file—never the file itself.

What is a Personal License?

A Personal License allows you to use a digital file for your own personal, non-commercial projects.

Personal use Non-commercial
  • Create items for yourself, gifts for friends or family.
  • Use the file for hobbies, practice, or learning.
  • Print or stitch the design for personal enjoyment.
Not allowed: Selling finished products, reselling or sharing the digital file, or using the design in any business or profit-making activity.

What is a Commercial License?

A Commercial License allows you to use the digital file to create and sell physical or end products, depending on the seller’s specific license terms.

Small business use Sell finished items
  • Sell finished products you make using the file (e.g., embroidered items, printed crafts).
  • Use the design for small business or handmade sales.
  • Limited production quantities may apply (check the listing).
Important: A commercial license never allows resale, sharing, or redistribution of the digital file itself.

Personal vs. Commercial License Comparison

Use case Personal License Commercial License
Personal projects & gifts ✔ Allowed ✔ Allowed
Selling finished physical products ✘ Not allowed ✔ Allowed (within limits)
Reselling or sharing digital files ✘ Not allowed ✘ Not allowed
Mass production or large-scale manufacturing ✘ Not allowed Depends on seller terms

How to know which license you’re buying

  • Check the product description and license section on the listing.
  • Some sellers offer license options as variations (Personal vs. Commercial).
  • If unsure, contact the seller before purchasing.
Each seller may define commercial limits differently (number of items, platforms allowed, etc.). Always follow the license stated in the product listing.

Still unsure?

If you’re not sure which license is right for you, we recommend contacting the seller directly or reaching out to Lovecraftify Support for guidance.

Email: help@lovecraftify.com

Table of Contents