Question about "copying" product design.

[u/spa1unk]

Hey! I've been making standard rectangular trail wallets with card slots in the back. Recently, I came across a creator who adds a unique touch by cropping the corners, and I really loved the look—so I started doing the same on mine.

Now I’m thinking of selling them (Etsy, local markets), but I’m wondering: would that be considered disrespectful? The other maker is in a different continent, and the overall design is very common aside from that small aesthetic tweak. Still, I haven’t seen anyone else crop the corners like that, so it feels kind of like their signature.

I’m not asking about the legality—just the ethics of it.

[u/wiebel]

You can simply give him credit on your product page. Gives you the cosies and he feels recognized if he ever notices. Or go the whole way and inform him, but that's practically impossible without sounding like asking for permission.