"defacing" licensed objects for resale?

[OWJones 1,981]

Just saw on a Facebook group about laser engraving - someone says a friend received a cease and desist letter for engraving Zippo lights for resale claiming that he was "defacing them".

I'm pretty sure the First Sale Doctrine says that is allowed, but I dont know everything about licensing...

Anyone else ever heard of such a thing?

[mrfibble 77]

seems thin in terms of legality  

[KYSIGN 233]

I better stop defacing my Gildan and Hanes shirts before I get sued.

[MadHatterGraphix 1,258]

I think it ls sketchy legally I would see if this person could find a lawyer and see if zippo has a standing I mean he isn't making the lighter he is just embellishing it. And what about these other companies that do it it could be a fake letter but someone else that does it also and trying to get rid of competition.

[Dakotagrafx 7,297]

the companies bet you won't spend the money to go to court - cause really how many do you have to sell to make up the difference in legal fees you will incure.

[DNA_Vinyl 262]

I call BS. I think KYSIGN said it best.