It’s been 2 years since I decided to focus on my own art ONLY. And I do not regret my decision, no matter what people say. If I hadn’t made that decision, I wouldn’t have started selling physically, and I still would have been at risk of facing legal action for copyright infringement.
Let’s make one thing clear: Without permission or a license, it is NOT legal to sell copyrighted characters in any form under any circumstances. This, of course, includes crochet patterns amigurumi plushies. It’s no use trying to give them different names–they will still be recognised by the owner!
The effects will be catastrophic, such as receiving a cease & desist notice (the least devastating effect), having your shop taken down (the more devastating effect) or getting sued by bigger companies (the most devastating effect).
You know, it’s a good thing I did take my video game themed stuff down. Otherwise, things could have been much different and potentially worse. I’m much happier creating my own art!