Sad to see how horrible some designers are making this industry out to be. Then again, there's a market for cheap imitators, and there's a market for true designers and REAL businessmen and webmasters who understand the fundamentals of a strong design that is both completely original, and creative.

Unfortunately, it seems this thread is filled with some people who will most likely NEVER be the best at what they do because they settle for second hand, unoriginal, work.

What you are calling "inspiration" is incorrect. It is stealing. It is the same thing as pirating. You are basically doing what bootleggers do - you're taking a brand, a style, a fashion, whatever it may be, and producing the same results for half the price. What you have is a knock off - you will never have the real deal. And if that's okay with you - then so be it. But until you realize and value a designer's time, and creativity, I doubt you will make it. And I dare you to challenge that statement. You may make a few bucks in the short run, but true success doesn't stem from this.

My friend, you have a lot to learn about this industry before you should EVER consider yourself a designer. And your clients, unfortunately, are no better than that. And for either group to try and justify their actions, in my opinion, is both ridiculous and pathetic at the same time.

I'm happy to say that I'll never ever do business with anyone like that. I value my work, and my time, and I respect my clients. Anyone asking me to "clone" or replicate a style automatically goes to the trash bin.

As for James, I'm sorry that you're work is being ripped off. In my opinion, this is a sign that means you need to move on. Expand your horizons and styles, and let the imitators come and go. It'll happen. It's unfortunate that people will do this, but understand that for every one of these cheapo's, there's a legitimate client/company out there waiting to find a designer.

So keep your head up.