Robin Corell in Atascadero CA
Actualy the line is very clear. A chair per say can not be patented, but if the design is novel and uniqe it can be copyrighted. there are a few minor differences from one media to another but the protection of all intelectual property rights are very clear, they can not be copyied without expressed permission for any purpose. his means you can not make a copy of a protected design for your own, the same as you can not make a computer program for you own use, or make a recording of a movie at the theater for your own use.

Any derivitive work must make significant changes for it to be considered new. Changing the species of wood or the finish or proportions would likely not count as significant. Making a krenov inspired cabinet with Maloof inspied legs would likely be considered significant changes to be considered new as would doing something in someones style that they never did, for instance making a krenov inspired refrigerator.

No body thinks it is right for someone who wants a new car but can't build one on their own to steal one, so why is it okay for anyone to steal the design for a piece of furniture because they can't design one on their own.

Robin