RomanArmyTalk

1. You should first review existing evidence for design elements and timeframe. (Well covered in several threads here on RAT)

2. Decide whether to adopt the same pattern as another unit you will
often drill with. (Example Legio V (Tennessee uses Legio XXs patteren)
or the same pattern of the unit of the same name in another country.
(Works well if you travel someday to drill together!)

3. Review existing units patterns if you want to avoid duplication.
(83 Reference photos at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Romanshield/ )

4. Be polite and ask permission to exactly duplicate another units pattern.

5. Copyright shouldn't be a problem as most design elements have been in the public domain for around 2000 years.

Hunh?

When designing the front of a shield, some groups make up their own designs while others stick to a certain format. I guess there is a lot of planning if you want to stick to the format.
:?

I think what it comes down to is this: Do you want to be at least partially accurate basing your design on a real one and just change colors or; come up with an original design and have all the authenticity types shred you idea to pieces. As for me, I'm playing it safe and going with a known design for my shield, armor, and helment. That's my recommendation!

Larry Mager
a.k.a. Vitruvius