Member Avatar for TempestMaster

New to Web Design, does using free templates modified to my requirements, be classed as cheating??
I just want to start off with neat looking websites, not to sell to clients, as they are all for my own personal websites and get my websites noticed. I have nearly 30 that I need to develop so need all the help I can get....

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by SheSaidImaPregy

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Using templates is not cheating. Most pros start from a base and customize. The key is using them within the license and being transparent about credit.

and are right that credit is often required, but the details depend on the license. Many free templates use Creative Commons; for example, CC BY lets you remix as long as you provide appropriate attribution to the creator and the license (CC BY 4.0). Others use software-style licenses; with permissive licenses like MIT you can modify and even remove visible footer credit, but you must retain the copyright and license text in the distributed source files (MIT license). Always check if bundled assets (images, icons, fonts) have different terms.

Quick checklist for your 30 sites:

  • Keep a simple CREDITS.md noting the template name, author, source URL, and license.
  • Replace any stock photos or fonts that are not licensed for your use.
  • If visible attribution is required, place it in the footer or an About page; do not hide it with CSS.
  • Make each site unique: titles, meta descriptions, copy, and imagery. Google prioritizes helpful, original content over look-and-feel (Google guidance).

Example of a clear footer credit when attribution is required:

<small>Design adapted from "TemplateName" by AuthorName (CC BY 4.0)</small>

If you later buy a paid version that permits removing attribution, keep the proof of purchase and updated terms on file. This approach lets you move fast without crossing any legal or ethical lines.

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Member Avatar for serkan sendur

if you keep the copyright info in your original template, it wont be treated as cheating

Member Avatar for SheSaidImaPregy

You need to check with the terms and conditions of each place you're taking free templates from. Most of them want a little recognition which means they want a small note on the bottom saying "Template by: blankkablla"

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