1. Understanding Design Patents: First, remember that design patents differ from utility patents. While utility patents protect how something works, design patents focus solely on visual aspects. This can encompass the product's shape, overall form, ornamentation, and aesthetic appeal.

2. Assessing Your Eligibility: Not all designs qualify for patent protection. Your design must be (a) New, that is there cannot be identical publicly known designs (b) Original meaning it cannot be simply an obvious variation of a known design and (c) Non-functional i.e. the protected aspects cannot be solely dictated by the article's function.

3. Conducting a Pre-Filing Search: Before diving into the application process, a thorough novelty search is crucial. This helps identify existing designs that might resemble yours and potentially hinder your application. The USPTO website offers resources like the Patent Public Search (PPUBS) and Advanced Search - Designs to assist you. For a comprehensive search, consider seeking professional help from a patent attorney or an IP/Patent firm.

4. Preparing Your Application: Once you are confident in your design's novelty and eligibility, it is time to prepare your application. This typically involves (a) Description, a detailed explanation of your design, including its intended use, materials, and specific features you seek protection for (b) Claim, a clear and concise statement defining the exact aspects you wish to protect (c) Drawings, multiple clear drawings or photographs showcasing your design from various perspectives and (d) Additional elements, fees, oath or declaration, and any relevant information about related applications.

5. Filing and Examination: Submit your complete application to the USPTO or designated patent office in your country. The patent office will then examine your application to ensure it meets all the legal requirements and assess its novelty, originality, and non-obviousness. This process can involve back-and-forth communication with the examiner to address any potential issues.

6. Granting of the Patent: If your application successfully navigates the examination process, a design patent will be granted, granting you exclusive rights to the protected aspects of your design for a specific term, typically Fourteen years in the US. This exclusivity allows you to prevent others from making, using, selling, or importing articles that infringe upon your design.