What is the easiest and cheapest way to

[luthierfer]

I am a interested in someday having my own shop and building instruments of my own. I have a pretty good design and name but I was just curious as to the easiest and cheapest way to get a copyright or trademark. Or even if I wouldn't need one perhaps.
thanks for the help

[CharlieKnuth]

I would suggest consulting a lawyer - the first consultation is usually free because you have entered into a contract with him/her. The copyright office and the patent office have publications on their homepage that explain the process of getting a copyright/patent. If you have really a unique design, it may be worth the effort and cost to get a design patent. That is why you should consult an attorney first. The attorney will tell you whether or not it is worth your while and how much it will oost you to have it done. The copyright part is fairly simple, the patent part is not.

[John Flynn]

Don't put a flowerpot on it! http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif