Hi, regarding copyrights...don't use images that are owned by companies. Basically if you suspect that someone paid to have an image created for them, then they own that image. really only the owner and the artist should use that image. If you copyright your work, then even the client who paid for the image can't use it again without permission or paying again. People always ask me for Disney characters!!! I decline. Though I could get away with it. It's bad karma. I don't want someone stealing my artwork. So out of respect I don't steal theirs. A mascot should be fine. Those images are usually generic. As long as you don't mass produce for profit. Also creating your own art is far more rewarding Hope this helps!