reuse of icons - "ethics" question

[bizbldrs]

If you have designed an 'icon' for a logo and used it in a contest where it was not selected: Is it appropriate to use that same icon in a different logo entry?

This was for a different group (since I am not yet accepted here) but I really liked this icon I designed but it was not selected for the contest. It was also appropriate for a different organization but I hesitate to use it again without changing it some.

Would appreciate feedback on this question.

[B.T.Klemensowsk]

If you have designed an 'icon' for a logo and used it in a contest where it was not selected: Is it appropriate to use that same icon in a different logo entry?

This was for a different group (since I am not yet accepted here) but I really liked this icon I designed but it was not selected for the contest. It was also appropriate for a different organization but I hesitate to use it again without changing it some.

Would appreciate feedback on this question.

Well if the client didn't choose your design then i believe you retain the copyright. Its not plagiarism when you copy yourself. However you should think about why the client didn't choose it in the first place. Probably could do some tweaks to make it better.

[Coy]

Well if the client didn't choose your design then i believe you retain the copyright. Its not plagiarism when you copy yourself. However you should think about why the client didn't choose it in the first place. Probably could do some tweaks to make it better.

agree.
It could also be the wrong image for the client that didn't pick it, but just right for someone else.

I say post it here and let us have a look at it.

over all I haven't met a designer yet that hasn't recycled one of their own images at some point. There are even sights to try and sell unused designs.

[Grims]

In my opinion, every client deserves a from-scratch project, meaning you should take the time going through the complete design process every time.

If you start half-way in with your icon, you may end up designing a logo around it, even though the icon might be what doesn't really fit.

But ofcourse, if you end up with an idea or a sketch close to what you have made earlier, I don't see the problem in using what you've already made. Saves time and trouble.

[bizbldrs]

this is the icon I want to reuse - it was about a "meeting place" and I really worked hard to get the hand image to look like a hand - that is a weakness. I could still tweak the 'hands' a bit but I like the way they work in the circle.

(thanks to someone who did a link to the 'tips' site on doing hands on this forum)

But I like the overall look and it could be done in one color or multi color and still be effective.

Attaching just a screen shot of the icon so it is a small file