What are the copyright considerations when replicating animal designs in fabric?

When replicating animal designs in fabric, it's crucial to consider copyright laws to avoid legal issues. Original animal patterns may be protected under intellectual property rights, meaning unauthorized reproduction could lead to infringement claims. Always verify if a design is copyrighted or trademarked before use. Public domain or royalty-free designs are safer options. Additionally, modifying an existing design significantly may help avoid infringement, but consulting a legal expert is advisable for commercial projects. Ethical sourcing and respecting artists' rights are equally important in textile design.