# Copycat protection for artists who sell prints

> Artwork gets lifted onto print-on-demand sites, posters and phone cases. How to find copies of your art and get them taken down.

Updated 2026-11-01 · https://makersentry.com/for/art-print-sellers

Digital images of your art are all a copier needs: print-on-demand sites let anyone upload your work onto posters, shirts and phone cases, and marketplace sellers do the same at scale.

## How copying happens for artists selling prints

- Your artwork is uploaded to print-on-demand sites under other shop names.
- Marketplace sellers print your art on cheap posters and canvases.
- Mock-up photos of your prints are reused to sell copies.

## Where copies usually show up

- Print-on-demand sites
- Amazon and Etsy
- Temu and AliExpress
- Wall-art dropship stores

## How to protect your work

1. Keep layered working files and dated sketches.
2. Post web images at modest resolution with a light watermark.
3. Use each print-on-demand site's copyright form; most act quickly.

## How MakerSentry helps

MakerSentry records proof for each artwork and listing image, searches for copies weekly across marketplaces and stores, and drafts the notices.

## Related

- [Who's using my photo?](/tools/who-is-using-my-photo)
- [How to file a DMCA takedown notice](/guides/how-to-file-a-dmca-takedown-notice)
- [Photo watermark tool](/tools/photo-watermark-tool)

## Questions

**Is fan art or 'inspired by' art a copy?**

Style isn't protected, but reproducing your specific artwork is. If the image is recognisably yours, you can report it.

**Should I register my artwork?**

Registration (in the US) matters mostly if you'll sue. For takedowns, dated working files and originals are usually enough.