Since starting Common Craft, I've been thinking about using trademarks and copyrights as a way to protect my intellectual property. To this end, I've found some good resources that folks in my position may find interesting:
10 Big Myths about copyright explained
I wasn't aware of this...
Q: When can I use the trademark symbols TM, SM and ®?
A: Any time you claim rights in a mark, you may use the "TM" (trademark) or "SM" (service mark) designation to alert the public to your claim, regardless of whether you have filed an application with the USPTO. However, you may use the federal registration symbol "®" only after the USPTO actually registers a mark, and not while an application is pending. Also, you may use the registration symbol with the mark only on or in connection with the goods and/or services listed in the federal trademark registration.