As an artisan who pours heart and soul into creating handmade tools, your craft is more than just business—it’s a legacy. Whether you forge tools in a backyard workshop or run a growing small-scale brand, your products reflect originality, skill, and trust. But in today’s competitive marketplace, even the most authentic creations are at risk of imitation. That’s where trademark protection under Class 8 comes into play. This guide will walk you through how artisans like you can trademark handmade tools, ensuring that no one else rides on your hard-earned reputation.
What is Trademark Class 8?
Trademark Class 8 is one of the 45 classes defined under the Nice Classification system, and it specifically covers:
- Hand tools and implements (hand-operated)
- Cutlery
- Side arms (excluding firearms)
- Razors
For artisans creating handmade tools such as woodworking chisels, artisan knives, gardening tools, and carving instruments, Class 8 is the right category to register your brand.
Examples of Products Under Class 8:
- Knives (kitchen and outdoor)
- Spanners, screwdrivers, pliers (hand-operated)
- Blades
- Gardening tools (hand-operated)
- Sculpting tools
- Hammers (hand tools)
- Cuticle scissors and nail clippers
Why Should Artisans Trademark Their Handmade Tools?
Trademarking your brand isn’t just for large corporations. In fact, it’s even more critical for small businesses and individual artisans because:
- Brand Recognition – A registered trademark makes your brand more recognizable and trustworthy to customers.
- Legal Ownership – You gain exclusive legal rights to your brand name or logo within your class.
- Protection Against Copycats – Prevents others from using similar names, logos, or packaging.
- Business Growth – Makes expansion easier, including licensing, online selling, or franchising.
Step-by-Step Process to Register a Trademark for Handmade Tools (Class 8)
Let’s break it down into a simple process:
Step 1: Choose a Unique Brand Name
Pick a name or logo that:
- Represents your craft
- Is not descriptive (e.g., “Best Tools” may not get approved)
- Is not identical or confusingly similar to an existing registered brand in Class 8
Step 2: Conduct a Trademark Search
Use the official IP India Trademark Search Tool to:
- Check for existing trademarks in Class 8
- Avoid names that are already registered or pending
This step helps avoid future opposition or rejection.
Step 3: Prepare the Documents
You will need:
- Applicant’s Name and Address
- Brand Name or Logo
- Description of Products
- Class 8 Specification
- Power of Attorney (Form TM-48, if applying through an agent)
- MSME or Startup Certificate (for reduced fees, if applicable)
Step 4: File the Application (Form TM-A)
You can file:
- Online through the IP India website
- Offline at the designated Trademark Registry Office
Trademark Application Fee (Class 8)
- Individuals / Startups / MSMEs: ₹4,500 per application (if filed online)
- Others (Companies/LLPs etc.): ₹9,000 per application
Pro Tip:
If you’re registered as a startup or MSME, you’re eligible for the lower filing fee.
Step 5: Examination by Trademark Office
- Takes 1–3 months typically.
- If there are objections, you’ll receive an Examination Report.
- You must respond within 30 days.
Step 6: Advertisement in Trademark Journal
If accepted or after resolving objections, your mark is published in the journal for public viewing.
- Opposition Period: 4 months. If no one objects, it proceeds to registration.
Step 7: Trademark Registration Certificate
If no opposition arises or it’s resolved, you get your Trademark Registration Certificate.
- Valid for 10 years
- Can be renewed indefinitely
Common Mistakes Artisans Should Avoid
- Using Generic Names – Don’t use terms that describe the tool itself.
- Skipping the Search – Always perform a trademark search first.
- Wrong Trademark Class – Many artisans mistakenly register under the wrong class (e.g., Class 6 for metal goods instead of Class 8 for hand tools).
- Not Monitoring the Application – Keep track of objection notices and deadlines.
- Not Renewing on Time – Trademarks expire after 10 years if not renewed.
How to Maintain and Protect Your Trademark
- Use the ® Symbol after registration to indicate legal protection.
- Monitor the Market for similar brand names trying to register in Class 8.
- Renew Every 10 Years to keep the brand protection active.
- Enforce Your Rights – If someone uses a confusingly similar brand, you can take legal action.
International Protection: Should You Go Global?
If you plan to sell your handmade tools internationally via Etsy, Amazon, or your own e-commerce store, consider filing through the Madrid Protocol.
- Allows you to register in multiple countries through a single application.
- You must first have a registered trademark in India.
Real-World Impact: Trademark Success for Artisans
Several artisan tool makers in India have successfully trademarked their brands under Class 8, leading to:
- Increased brand trust on marketplaces like Amazon and Flipkart
- Higher resale value and licensing opportunities
- Better defense against product copying or name misuse
Final Thoughts: Trademarking is a Craft Too
Just like crafting a fine tool takes patience, registering a trademark requires thoughtful steps. But once secured, it becomes your shield against imitation and a symbol of your authenticity. For handmade tool artisans, this step is not just about legal protection—it’s about preserving your name, reputation, and growth for the long run.
VMK Professionals: Your Partner in Artisan Trademark Registration
At VMK Professionals, we specialize in trademark registration for artisans, startups, and small businesses across India. From name search and documentation to filing and responding to objections, we handle everything while you focus on your craft.
We offer:
- Expert guidance on Class 8 trademark strategy
- End-to-end application support
- Affordable pricing and fast processing
- Help with MSME certification for reduced fees
📞 Get in touch today and protect your handmade tool brand with confidence.
