I'm hearing and mute; can I give people sign names?

[Muffinator]

As I stated on my introduction thread, I am hearing and have mutism due to being autistic, which is a major incentive for learning sign language. I'm interested in giving people sign names, but I've heard that you're not supposed give them (or choose your own) if you aren't deaf, so I'd like to gather some opinions on this before I make an ass of myself.

 

[Auslan_91]

I know a mute guy who signs fluently and I asked him the exact same question.

Answer: No, you have to be deaf to give sign names. This is in Sydney though, could be different elsewhere.

 

[DeafDucky]

Hmm..

But what if the hearing/mute person who signs does not have any contact with deaf on a regular basis?

Interesting question.